10 Essential Printed Circuit Board Chemicals Every Engineer Should Know

Author: Grace

Jul. 15, 2025

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Tags: Chemicals

When designing and manufacturing printed circuit boards (PCBs), engineers rely on a range of specialized chemicals essential for various processes. From cleaning and etching to soldering and coating, it’s crucial to know the right chemicals to enhance functionality and reliability. Below, we categorize ten essential PCB chemicals that every engineer should be familiar with, enriched by insights from industry leaders like Joe Berrie of PCB Universe and Dr. Lily Hu from Chemtronic.

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Cleaning Agents

Cleaning agents are vital for removing contaminants, dust, and residues from PCB surfaces. Proper cleaning ensures better adhesion during soldering and coating processes.

Chemical Purpose Expert Insight
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Degreasing and cleaning Joe Berrie recommends using IPA due to its effectiveness and quick evaporation.
Hydrochloric Acid Etching and cleaning copper surfaces Dr. Lily Hu notes that diluted hydrochloric acid works well for preparatory cleaning.

Etching Chemicals

Etching is a critical process in PCB manufacturing where unwanted copper is removed. The choice of etching chemical can greatly affect precision and quality.

Chemical Purpose Expert Insight
Ferric Chloride Copper etching According to Joe Berrie, ferric chloride is highly effective and widely used in PCB fabrication.
Ammonium Persulfate Alternative to ferric chloride Dr. Lily Hu advises that this is suitable for fine line etching.

Soldering Agents

Soldering is crucial for connecting components to the PCB. The right soldering chemicals ensure strong and reliable joints.

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Chemical Purpose Expert Insight
Flux Cleaning surfaces and preventing oxidation Joe Berrie emphasizes that using the right flux is key to achieving optimal soldering results.
Solder Paste Combines solder and flux for SMT According to Dr. Lily Hu, selecting the best solder paste can enhance the reflow process.

Coating and Finishing Chemicals

Coating chemicals protect PCBs from environmental damage and improve conductivity. Choosing the right coating is crucial for longevity.

Chemical Purpose Expert Insight
Conformal Coating Protects against moisture and dirt Dr. Lily Hu states that silicone-based coatings provide excellent protection for sensitive components.
Potting Compounds Encapsulation and protection Joe Berrie recommends these compounds for vibration and shock protection.

Adhesives and Sealants

To enhance structural integrity, adhesives and sealants are essential in securing components on a PCB.

Chemical Purpose Expert Insight
Epoxy Adhesives High-strength bonding Dr. Lily Hu highlights the versatility of epoxy in various applications.
Silicone Sealants Moisture and thermal insulation According to Joe Berrie, silicone sealants are excellent for protecting exposed areas.

Conclusion

Understanding these essential PCB chemicals is vital for engineers in producing high-quality, reliable circuits. Influential figures in the PCB industry, such as Joe Berrie and Dr. Lily Hu, affirm that utilizing the right chemicals throughout the manufacturing process greatly enhances both functionality and durability. Continuing to keep abreast of advancements in PCB chemistry will aid in achieving superior outcomes in design and production.

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