Correlation between interfacial microstructure and bonding strength of sintered nanosilver on ENIG and electroplated Ni/Au direct-bond-copper (DBC) substrates

We studied the diffusion bonding mechanism and interfacial reactions between sintered nanosilver and direct-bond-copper substrates with different surface finishes, i.e., electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) and electroplated nickel gold (Ni/Au). The correlation between the interfacial microstructure and bonding strength of sintered nanosilver joints was discussed. The shear test results indicated that the strength of the Ni/Au joints was approximately three times higher than that of the ENIG joints. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and transmission electron microscopic (TEM) images showed that the interface was bonded well in the Ni/Au joint. However, a delamination region appeared along the interface in the ENIG joint. Excess diffusion of Ag element into the immersion gold layer during sintering at high temperatures resulted in poor densification of the sintered nanosilver adjacent to the Au surface. As a consequence, a continuous AgeAu layer and the delamination region formed between the sintered Ag layer and the AgeAu layer and a weakened the ENIG joints. A modified sintering process involving a preheating stage at 150 degrees C for 5 min and a sudden increase to 275 degrees C held for 30 min effectively reduced the poor densification and increased the shearing strength of the ENIG joints. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.