Role of Zinc on Shear Property Evolution between Sn-0.7Cu Solder and Joints

Abstract Effect of zinc addition on the shear property evolution between Sn-0.7Cu solder alloy and their joints reflowed at 250 °C was investigated. The shear strength of Sn-0.7Cu/Cu joint was found to be higher than of Sn-0.7Cu solder alloy. Although a small addition of zinc element strengthened Sn-0.7Cu solder alloy, it decreased the shear strength of Sn- 0.7Cu solder joints. Based on the fractography analysis and interfacial microstructure observation, it is proposed that the deposition of Cu-Zn intermetallic toward the interface during reflowing is largely responsible for the shear property evolution between the Sn-0.7Cu solder alloy and their joints.