Thermal Grease Composition for High Conductivity at Low Viscosity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-curable thermal greases face a challenge in achieving higher thermal conductivity without a concomitant increase in viscosity, which affects printability and workability.
Innovation Solution
A composition comprising specific filler particles and treating agents, including aluminum, alumina, zinc oxide, and boron nitride platelets, with ether-functionalized trimethoxysilane treating agents, to enhance thermal conductivity while maintaining low viscosity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the loading of thermal conductive fillers is increased to increase thermal conductivity, then thermal conductivity is improved, but viscosity increases which diminishes printability and workability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a silane coupling agent as an intermediary substance between the thermal conductive fillers and the silicone-based fluid. This coupling agent modifies the surface of the filler particles, improving their dispersion and reducing aggregation, thereby lowering the viscosity of the thermal grease while maintaining high thermal conductivity. The silane coupling agent acts as a mediator that enables better interaction between the filler and base fluid, resolving the viscosity problem associated with high filler loading.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the surface parameters of the thermal conductive fillers by applying surface treatment with silane coupling agents. This surface modification alters the physical and chemical properties of the filler particles, reducing their surface energy and improving compatibility with the silicone-based fluid. As a result, the filler particles disperse more uniformly, reducing viscosity while maintaining high thermal conductivity at elevated filler loadings.
2Temperature
If the loading of thermal conductive fillers is increased to achieve higher thermal conductivity, then thermal conductivity is improved, but printability deteriorates due to higher viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The silane coupling agent serves as an intermediary that improves the wettability and dispersion of filler particles in the base fluid. By modifying the filler surface, it enables better flow characteristics and printability even at high filler loadings, allowing the thermal grease to be properly dispensed and applied without sagging or poor adhesion.
Solution Approach 2:
The surface treatment of fillers with silane coupling agents changes the rheological parameters of the thermal grease, specifically improving its thixotropic behavior and flow properties. This enables the grease to maintain stability during storage while exhibiting improved printability and applicability during manufacturing processes.
3Temperature
If the loading of thermal conductive fillers is increased to achieve higher thermal conductivity, then thermal conductivity is improved, but workability deteriorates due to higher viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The silane coupling agent acts as a lubricating intermediary between filler particles, reducing inter-particle friction and improving the overall workability of the thermal grease. This enables easier mixing, spreading, and application during manufacturing processes while maintaining high filler loading for optimal thermal conductivity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a composition comprising one or more filler particles and a first treating agent of Formula 1; and a second treating agent of Formula 2; where R, R1, R2, R3, Y, x, y, and z are defined herein. The composition of the present invention is useful as a non-curable thermal grease that can achieve high thermal conductivities at dispensable and processable viscosities.