Fast Characterization of Defects and Inclusions in Multi-layer Films

Presented by: Peng GaoAnalytical chemist, Eastman Performance Films

Date: October, 29th, 2018

Approved for external use

Eastman Performance Films, LLCMartinsville, VA, US

Mounting

Adhesive

PET

Metal Deposit

(vapor deposition and sputtering)

Scratch Resistant

Coating

Silicone

PET+ Dye

Release liner

Laminated

Components

2 Approved for external use

OverviewContaminants in optically clear films

• Large impact on quality• Trapped in multi-layers• Particles: 5-100 microns• Organic/inorganic

100 µm

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Analysis of contaminants• Involves deconstruction of multi-layer films or microtome

techniques. • Analysis of contaminants using current techniques could

take a couple of days. • Location information is very often inconclusive.

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Cutting by hand is not precise enough

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Nanoindenter (CB500, Nanovea) modified with cutting blades• Nanoindenter offers precise control to cut through the

contamination in films.• Locate the contamination using the built-in microscope• Cut through the contamination using a sharp blade.

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Samples cut by the new technique

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Small particle contamination

30 µm 40 µm

2 4 6 8 10 12 14keV

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

cps/eV

C O

Fe Fe

5 microns

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Flaky contamination

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Outcome of the new technique

• Took less than 2 hours• In the coating

Deconstruction New technique

Approved for external use

• Took days • Machine? • Process?

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Microtome vs. Nanoindenter technique

Nanoindenter techniqueAdvantages No contamination from resin embedding Fast PreciseLimitations Non-contact methods of chemical analysis Organic contamination

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Summary

• A new technique for faster identification of contamination was developed by cutting precisely through contaminants.

• Works for contamination as small as 5 microns.• No chemical or resin are needed.• Provides more conclusive information on the location of

contamination (process & machine), offering a possible source for root cause analysis.

• For organic contamination, microtoming may be required.

13 Approved for external use

Thanks!