Sn Whisker Growth in Cu(Top)-Sn(Bottom) Bilayer System upon Room Temperature Aging

Abstract

The Sn whisker growth in Cu(top)-Sn(bottom) bilayer system upon room temperature aging was investigated by scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction techniques. The experimental observations indicate that the Sn whisker growth on the Cu surface in Cu-Sn bilayer system is different from that on the Sn surface in Sn-Cu bilayer system. When the Sn sublayer thickness is less than 0.5μm, the Sn whisker growth can take place in Cu-Sn system but not in Sn-Cu system. An explanation for Sn whisker growth in Cu-Sn bilayer system is given.