CRED, a novel research initiative under CELCORR, is dedicated to addressing the corrosion reliability and robustness requirements of electronics. The project places a particular emphasis on high voltage/power electronics as they are increasingly used in renewable energy systems and electrification, among others. Additionally, CRED will investigate the impact of exposure to gaseous conditions in conjunction with humidity.
During the duration of the project, CELCORR will enhance its laboratory facilities, incorporating the ability to conduct experiments ranging from low to high voltage/current. The objective is to devise measures for corrosion robustness, leveraging the expertise in the research group in materials and corrosion. The focus will be on various aspects including materials, Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) design and processes, and metal-polymer interfaces in electronics components and devices, and how more robust parts can be made to prevent functional issues due to corrosion by robust design.
“CELCORR’s unique strength is materials and corrosion expertise, and we are applying this to develop environmentally robust designs by understanding design elements that are causing failures and elucidating mechanisms. The CRED project will greatly enhance this capability. In this project, we will also proactively collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that whatever we develop is at the cutting-edge level and applicable to industry needs." - Professor Rajan Ambat.
The research will also concentrate on understanding failure mechanisms due to high voltage/power effects under humidity and other environmental factors such as gases. It will explore factors that could be manipulated to enhance intrinsic robustness. New laboratory facilities will be established for testing under humid and gaseous conditions, such as H2S and SO2, and for high voltage testing.
