Reliability of Lead-Free Solder Joints

Abstract

Reliability of the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment compliant products is investigated in this study. Emphasis is placed on the lead-free solder joint reliability. Solder is the electrical and mechanical “glue” of electronics assemblies. Will lead-free solders provide the characteristics necessary to allow the world to depend on it in the future? This paper cannot answer this question; however, it will help all participants in the soldering world better understand what needs to be done in order to answer this question and plan for the future.