Aging effect on creep properties of SnBi solders

Abstract

This paper discusses the effects of additive elements and aging on creep properties of SnBi solder system. Creep tests were performed on unaged and aged SnBi, SnBiAg and SnBiAgCuNiGe solders at three temperatures and the effects of them on creep rupture lifetimes and creep strain rates were discussed. The additive elements decreased creep strain rates and elongated creep rupture lifetimes. Causes of the effects were discussed from EBSD observations. The additive elements reduced the grain size and the aging coarsened grain size. The grain size had a pronounced effect on the creep strain rates and rupture lifetimes.