Novel Protective Polymers for Circuitry

NU 2013-151

Inventors

Bartosz A. Grzybowski*

Bilge Baytekin

Hasan Tarik Baytekin

Short Description

Antistatic polymers that protect electronic circuits from damage caused by electrostatic discharge

Abstract

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a major problem in the electronics industry causing losses measured in billions of dollars per year. In addition to financial losses, ESD can cause shocks and explosions leading to loss of human life as well. Semiconductors present in all manner of electronic devices are vulnerable because they can accumulate charges on their surface, which can then destroy the device if and when discharged. Northwestern University researchers have discovered that small amounts of radical scavenging compounds can be easily added to polymers used for making semiconductors to prevent the build up of charges on their surface that causes ESD. Their method is simple, inexpensive and does not interfere with any aspects of semiconductor performance. Moreover, radical scavenging can be accomplished by substances such as vitamin E, which means that protection of electronic devices from ESD can be accomplished without undue burden on the environment. This new technology from Northwestern University will revolutionize the field of semiconductors by making them more durable, safer and minimizing financial losses incurred due to ESD.

Applications