Non-Linear Conductivity Epoxy/SiC Composites for Emerging Power Module Packaging: Fabrication, Characterization and...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrical Engineering

Background:

• Power modules require advanced insulation materials to manage high electric fields and ensure operational safety.
• Silicon carbide (SiC) is a promising filler material due to its unique electrical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of SiC crystal morphology (alpha-SiC vs. beta-SiC) and temperature on the non-linear conductivity of SiC/epoxy composites.
• To evaluate the potential of these composites for voltage sharing applications in power module packaging.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of SiC/epoxy composites with varying amounts and crystal morphologies of SiC.
• Experimental characterization of non-linear conductivity under different temperature conditions.
• COMSOL Multiphysics simulation to assess electric field distribution in power module packaging.

Main Results:

• Beta-SiC particles resulted in higher non-linear conductivity compared to alpha-SiC.
• Temperature significantly influenced the non-linear conductivity, with complex behaviors dependent on SiC content.
• Simulations demonstrated that SiC/epoxy composites effectively reduce electric field stress.

Conclusions:

• SiC/epoxy composites with non-linear conductivity offer enhanced electric field uniformity.
• These materials are suitable for power module packaging, improving safety and reliability.