A new fine‐grained matte pure tin for semiconductor lead‐frame applications

Purpose To present a new tin plating process which provides deposits having a fine‐grained structure and stable crystal orientation with a combination of properties which are well suited for use as a lead‐free finish on semiconductor lead‐frames. Design/methodology/approach The new process was designed to produce tin coatings with a deposit grain size ca 20 per cent that of a traditional matte pure tin finish to ensure that the deposit retains good solderability after steam ageing. Findings The enhanced solderability from the finer‐grained deposit has been demonstrated and other functionally important deposit properties have been confirmed. A stable single crystal orientation 〈220〉 indicates low whiskering propensity and measurements have confirmed the excellent whisker performance, even without specific whisker‐preventing countermeasures. The deposit has high ductility. Analytical methods are available for all key components to ensure optimum process control. The process has been tested in a continuous production environment for over 12 months with excellent results. Originality/value The novel process described in the paper provides tin deposits having a unique combination of properties and with production‐proven capability to be an ideal lead‐free solution as a solderable finish for electronic components.