Semiconductor Module Protective Layer for Corrosive Gas Neutralization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power semiconductor modules are vulnerable to corrosion from gases like sulfur-containing compounds, leading to component degradation and failure, as existing protective measures such as casting compounds are not effective against corrosive gases.

Innovation Solution

A dielectric material-based protective layer with a reactant, such as metallic powders or activated carbon, is introduced to chemically react with, trap, or absorb corrosive gases, forming a non-permanent adhesive bond within the semiconductor module housing to prevent corrosion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a casting compound is used to protect semiconductor components, then mechanical protection is provided, but protection against corrosive gases is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection against corrosive gasesVSAvoidcorrosive gas penetration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The protective layer combines a dielectric material with a reactant (such as metallic powders or activated carbon) to create a composite material that provides both mechanical protection and chemical protection against corrosive gases. The dielectric material forms the structural base while the reactant provides corrosion protection through chemical reactions with corrosive gases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The reactant acts as an intermediary between the corrosive gases and the semiconductor components. It chemically reacts with corrosive gases (such as sulfur-containing compounds) to neutralize them before they can reach and damage the metallic components, effectively mediating the harmful interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If a permanent adhesive bond is formed with housing components, then structural stability is improved, but removal and rework become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidremoval and rework capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The adhesive bond transitions from a permanent state to a controllable, reversible state. The protective layer forms an adhesive bond that provides structural stability during operation but can be selectively removed using appropriate solvents or heating, enabling repair and rework while maintaining stability during normal use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution effectively extends the lifetime of power semiconductor modules by preventing corrosive gas penetration and subsequent component degradation, ensuring reliable operation by chemically reacting with and neutralizing harmful gases.

Implementation Method 1

the reactant is configured to chemically react with, trap, adsorb, or absorb corrosive gases

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical reaction: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 2

the reactant is configured to chemically react with, trap, adsorb, or absorb corrosive gases

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdsorption: Adsorption

Implementation Method 3

The first material forms a flexible mat or a rigid plate with the second material distributed therein

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP3422399B1Method for producing a device for protecting a semiconductor module and semiconductor module comprising said device
Publication Date: 2024.07.31 INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AG
  • EP3422399B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3422399B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3422399B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A method for producing a device for protecting a power semiconductor module arrangement includes mixing a first material and a second material, wherein the first material is a liquid or viscous dielectric and wherein the second material is distributed within the first material and comprises a reactant, wherein the reactant is configured to chemically react with, trap, adsorb, or absorb corrosive gases. The method further includes filling the mixture into a casting mold, developing the mixture into a solid or semi-solid mat or plate, with the second material evenly distributed therein, and removing the mat or plate from the casting mold.