The influence of SACX0307-ZnO nanocomposite solder alloys on the optical and thermal properties of power LEDs

Purpose This paper aims to present the results of investigations that show the influence of ZnO composite soldering paste on the optical and thermal parameters of power light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Design/methodology/approach ZnO nanocomposite solder alloys were produced via the ball milling process from the solder paste Sn99Ag0.3Cu0.7 (SACX0307) and 1.0 wt% of ZnO nanoparticle reinforcements with different primary particle sizes (200 nm, 100 nm and 50 nm). Power LEDs were soldered onto a metal core printed circuit board. A self-designed LED test system was used to measure the thermal and optical characteristics of the LEDs. Findings The influence of the soldering paste on the thermal and optical parameters of LEDs was observed. In all solder alloys, ZnO ceramic reinforcement, at a level of 1 wt%, increased the thermal parameters of LEDs and decreased their luminous efficiency. Thermal resistance values were10% higher, and junction temperature change over ambient temperature was 20% higher for the samples soldered with composite solder pastes than the reference sample. At the same time, luminous efficiency dropped by 32%. Originality/value The results prove that ZnO ceramic reinforcement of solder paste influences the thermal properties of solder joints. As was proven, the quality of the solder joints influences the whole assembly.