Contamination on Electrolytic Capacitors

Three lots of capacitors were submitted Gideon Analytical Labs for chloride and zinc contamination analysis on the terminal leads of the electrolytic capacitors.

The analysis was performed using an SEM-EDS system giving elemental analysis in relation to the intensity of the element at a specific wavelength or energy level (Kev). Since Kev (energy levels) for specific elements do not change, these are used to identify the elements in the sample.

Below is an EDS of the contamination. The analysis proved the leads had silver, tin and, silicone. The silicone contaminate on the lead prevents solderability and thus, weak solder joints will form, if they form at all.

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