アイテス List of News Articles

We would like to introduce an example of failure analysis of chip resistors where abnormalities were observed. Upon investigating the cause of the malfunction of the polishing table, abnormalities were confirmed in the chip resistors on the relevant circuit board. Surface observation revealed abnormalities in the chip resistors, and it appeared that the protective film was melted. Elemental analysis using EDX detected elements such as Al and Pb from the abnormal areas, suggesting that the undercoat layer may be exposed. Next, a cross-sectional sample was prepared through mechanical polishing, and analysis was conducted using SEM/EDX, which showed that the protective film and the resistive element appeared to be melted. It seems that the destruction of the overcoat layer allowed the undercoat layer and other components to be observed from the surface, and it is believed that due to a surge or overload, the temperature exceeded the heat resistance, causing the resistive element to melt and the resistance value to change (leading to an open circuit).

To prevent shock and vibration, low-rebound and vibration-absorbing materials are used in various situations. The indicator of these properties is viscoelasticity. This document presents examples of evaluating the rebound and vibration absorption properties of rubber materials through dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). From the dynamic viscoelasticity concerning temperature, it is possible to predict the vibration absorption and rebound properties of materials in their usage environment. From the dynamic viscoelasticity concerning frequency, it can be utilized to predict damping performance against seismic motion, braking performance of tires, and in the low-frequency range, it can be used to predict long-term deformation behavior such as creep.

Our company conducts consistent analysis from reliability testing to failure analysis. This allows us to confirm whether the samples meet the specifications, as well as to identify and observe the defective areas of failed samples. We propose and implement tests and analyses tailored to our customers' requests and objectives, assisting from cause investigation to problem resolution. Please feel free to contact us when you need our services. 【Analysis Flow】 ■ Specification confirmation of semiconductor devices through reliability testing ■ Identification of defective areas and observation of failure locations using TEM ・ Identification of defective areas through EMS/OBIRCH analysis ・ Observation of failure locations using TEM

This document introduces examples of visualizing the internal state of capsules in three dimensions and obtaining elemental information data through EDX analysis of powders. In the X-ray CT analysis, it was observed that there were slight air gaps inside the capsule, and it was also visually confirmed that the particle size was not uniform, with some larger particles present. In the SEM-EDX analysis, elemental analysis was conducted on any particles contained within. At an acceleration voltage of 15kV, carbon (C), oxygen (O), calcium (Ca), chlorine (Cl), iron (Fe), phosphorus (P), and sodium (Na) were detected. [Analysis Details] ■ X-ray CT Analysis: X-ray transmission observation of the capsule ■ SEM-EDX Analysis: Elemental analysis of any particles contained within

We would like to introduce the dynamic viscoelastic measurement of CFRP conducted by our company using the bending mode. When performing dynamic viscoelastic measurements using DMA, CFRP is generally highly elastic, and it is considered that measurements using the bending mode are suitable due to its applications. The deformation modes of DMA can measure in any mode as long as the size requirements are met, but it is ideal to select appropriate conditions based on the material's shape, elastic modulus, and the purpose of the measurement. If you have any subjects for which you would like to measure dynamic viscoelasticity, please feel free to consult us. 【Measurement Modes】 ■ Tensile ■ Compression ■ Bending (Two-point/One-point/Three-point) ■ Shear

This is a case study that compares the methods for cross-section preparation on the surface coating layer of a golf ball and observes the effects of heat from CP processing. There are two layers of coating on the outermost layer of the cover layer, and a comparison of cross-section preparation methods was conducted using this coating layer. SEM observations of the cross-sections prepared by three different methods were performed. While cross-section preparation of soft materials is effectively done using cross-section ion milling (CP), the physical properties may change due to the heat generated during CP processing. In such cases, cross-section preparation using cryo-CP, which mitigates the effects of processing heat through cooling, is effective. 【Cross-section preparation methods】 ■ Mechanical polishing ■ CP ■ Cryo-CP (-50℃)

Our company will introduce the FEI "Talos F200E" transmission electron microscope system. Compared to conventional models, the resolution for TEM and STEM has improved, and performance has been significantly enhanced, allowing for EDS analysis with four detectors. Additionally, it is equipped with features such as drift-corrected frame integration (DCFI), which accumulates multiple frames while correcting for drift.

At Aites Co., Ltd., we conduct "Poisson's ratio measurement." Poisson's ratio is the ratio of longitudinal to lateral strain that occurs when a load is applied to an object, and it is necessary for strength calculations of materials. In the downloadable materials, we introduce the results of attaching strain gauges to test specimens, applying tensile loads using a universal testing machine, and examining the longitudinal and lateral strains obtained from the strain gauges. Please feel free to download and take a look.

This is a measuring device that can non-contact measure surface shapes such as concavities, undulations, and surface roughness. We will introduce "heating deformation observation" using a 3D shape measuring machine. First, we acquire a 3D texture image at room temperature, and then we acquire a 3D texture image in the heated state. By overlaying the texture images before and after heating and checking the differential texture image and cross-sectional profile, it can be seen that the substrate in the heated state has higher ends and a lower center compared to the room temperature state.

We will introduce a case where cross-sections were created and observed by method regarding the adhesive parts of the tires of pull-back cars. When conducting SEM observations of the created cross-sections, fillers present inside the rubber were confirmed. It was found that the dispersion state of the fillers and the condition of the adhesive interface were not clear with fracture by liquid nitrogen or mechanical polishing. In contrast, the cross-sections created by cryo ion milling allow for clear observation of the dispersion state of the fillers contained within the rubber and the condition of the adhesive interface with the plastic substrate.

We would like to introduce the "Tensile Property Evaluation using Extensometers for High-Elasticity Flexible Materials" that we offer. Tensile tests of NR rubber will be conducted using contact-type (suitable for high-elasticity and soft materials) and non-contact type (video) extensometers, and the results will be compared. To accurately determine strain in tensile tests, it is necessary to select the appropriate extensometer and testing conditions based on the target material and measurement objectives. We will provide suggestions tailored to your consultation needs.

We conducted measurements to reconfirm the temperature of heat generation during curing, following the change to a non-toxic epoxy resin. When using a large amount of resin, we apply heat generation prevention treatment for resin embedding. Without this treatment, the temperature can rise up to 138°C during curing. However, by applying the heat generation prevention treatment even with a large amount of resin, we were able to keep the heat generation during curing within 30°C.

Our company conducts "rubber thermal aging tests" that help evaluate the properties of materials in actual usage environments. Using a method compliant with JIS K6257 (Method for determining thermal aging characteristics of vulcanized rubber and thermoplastic rubber), rubber test pieces are suspended in a gear oven to create specimens with varying heat treatment times. Additionally, tensile tests are performed on heated natural rubber (NR) to investigate changes in mechanical properties, while hardness is measured simultaneously. Changes in the characteristics of the rubber are also examined, confirming that rubber elasticity is lost and the material becomes harder with heating.

Our "component analysis of organic substances" often utilizes FT-IR and GC/MS. In FT-IR measurements, it is possible to analyze the main components of organic substances by comparing the IR spectrum of known substances. Additionally, if you want to analyze not only the main components of unknown substances but also trace amounts of organic substances such as additives, we recommend conducting GC/MS measurements.

I would like to introduce "Observation of Substrate Deformation Using a 3D Shape Measuring Machine." By applying pressure to the PCB substrate, referencing bending tests of plastics and PCB substrates, the change in state is measured using a 3D shape measuring machine (VR-6200). Since the measurement results can be confirmed with a color palette and line profile, it is possible to visually verify the shape and amount of deformation caused by the applied pressure.

I would like to introduce "Cross-sectional observation of tracking camera using mechanical polishing." Regarding the structure of the tracking camera components, when viewed from above, the lens can be identified. Although it cannot be clearly seen in the X-ray image, the lens is incorporated into the convex part. Additionally, the cross-sectional structure is similar to that of an RGB sensor, featuring a back-illuminated CMOS structure. However, since color information is not necessary for the tracking camera, there is no color filter layer. A jagged uneven shape was observed on the surface of the photodiode.

At Aites Co., Ltd., we conduct "NMR analysis of liquid crystal compounds." NMR is an analytical method that reveals the connections between atoms that make up a molecule, and it is used alongside mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy for determining the structure of compounds. In the downloadable materials, we highlight the 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and DEPT measurements of 4-butoxy-4'-cyanobiphenyl (CAS number 52709-87-2), which is used as a liquid crystal component, and introduce the information obtained from NMR. Please feel free to download and take a look.

We would like to introduce our "Appearance Observation and Measurement Service." We are equipped with a variety of devices to meet your needs, including appearance observation before and after reliability testing, solder joint observation, as well as dimensional measurements and surface roughness measurements of various components. You can also leave the pre-observation processing to us. Our company has IPC-certified IPC specialists on staff. We provide assistance with observations, consultations, and solutions to various observation-related concerns in accordance with international standards.

At our company, we created a cross-section of the CMOS image sensor component associated with A company's VR goggles through mechanical polishing while keeping the component intact, and we conducted structural observations of the CMOS sensor component. During the observation of the sensor component structure and sensor surface, we removed the glass filter and observed the CMOS sensor surface, where it was noted that the arrangement of the color filters was in a configuration known as a Bayer filter. In addition to mechanical polishing, methods for creating cross-sections include processing with ion beams such as FIB and CP, as well as microtome methods. Consultations are free, so please feel free to contact us if you are unsure about the cross-section creation method.

We would like to present the results of strain measurements conducted by attaching strain gauges and thermometers to the surfaces of power modules, both in the mounted state on a circuit board and in the unmounted state. In the mounted module, a slight delay in temperature change was observed, and correspondingly, the change in strain also appeared to be delayed. This is believed to be due to the slower transfer of heat to the module when it is mounted. At Aites, we conduct temperature cycle tests and temperature-humidity cycle tests, during which we can simultaneously measure the strain occurring in the mounted components. Please feel free to consult with us.

At Aites Co., Ltd., we provide a wide range of technical services for evaluation tests of printed circuit boards (mounted boards) equipped with electronic components. We conduct reliability tests, solder joint observations, whisker observations, and cross-sectional observations. We have IPC-A-610 certified IPC specialists on staff who can assist with observations in accordance with international standards, consultations, and various observation-related concerns. Additionally, we offer services such as X-ray observations, appearance inspections, and shape measurements, so please feel free to consult with us when needed.

Aites Co., Ltd. exhibited at the 31st "Micro Joining and Assembly Technology in Electronics" Symposium (MATE 2025) held at Pacifico Yokohama. We sincerely thank everyone who visited our booth.

Aites will be exhibiting at the Mate2025 31st Symposium on "Micro Joining and Assembly Technologies in Electronics," held at the Pacifico Yokohama Conference Center. We will be introducing our advanced analytical technology services, so please stop by. We sincerely look forward to your visit.