This book explores UV-curable conformal coatings, highlighting their advantages in protecting electronic assemblies from environmental stressors like moisture, dust, and chemicals. UV-curable coatings offer rapid curing, enhanced durability, and reduced environmental impact due to low VOC emissions and energy-efficient processes. They improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and extend product lifespans, aligning with sustainability goals. The authors compare UV coatings with traditional methods, emphasizing their cost, time, and space-saving benefits. Also discussed: protective materials, curing methods, and industry standards like IPC-CC-830 and UL certifications. Case studies demonstrate significant reductions in labor, material consumption, energy use, and production time when transitioning to UV conformal coatings. Readers will discover how UV-curable conformal coatings are revolutionizing electronics manufacturing and reliability:
- Advanced Protection: UV coatings form thin, durable films that shield PCBs from moisture, dust, and chemicals, extending product life.
- Efficiency & Sustainability: Rapid UV curing slashes processing time, reduces energy use, and minimizes waste—supporting ESG goals.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for automotive, aerospace, medical, and consumer electronics, with tailored chemistries for diverse needs.
- Proven Results: Case studies show up to 77% less material use, 85–93% smaller production footprint, and up to 99% faster processing.
ISBN: 978-1-959894-22-3
ISBN: 978-1-959894-24-7
Brian J. Chislea is a scientist and engineer at Dow, Inc., with 28+ years of industrial experience. After seven years in Michigan’s automotive sector, specializing in capital project management, he joined Dow to support advanced materials innovation in silicones and electronics materials. His work includes compound semiconductor programs for silicon carbide (SiC) wafer production, plus early efforts in solar and silicone liquid crystal technologies. Chislea’s expertise spans electrical engineering and materials science, with contributions to conductive adhesives, next-generation solar materials, and UV/moisture dual-cure conformal coatings. His work has led to numerous patents and publications. He has led global technical initiatives and helped develop IPC standards. Chislea is also deeply committed to STEM education, mentoring engineers, and leading youth robotics programs.
Dr. Cody Schoener is a senior marketing manager at Dow, Inc., leading regional strategy for industrial electronics, including aerospace and defense, while supporting global strategy and commercial execution within Dow’s silicones portfolio. With more than 13 years at Dow, he brings deep experience across multiple chemistries, market segments, and commercial disciplines. From 2012 to 2020, he held technical service and development roles in cellulosic and polyurethane technologies, supporting innovation, product lifecycle management, and customer value optimization. Since joining the silicones business in 2020, he has bridged advanced materials science with strategic marketing. Schoener has authored 23 peer-reviewed publications, contributed to 15 patent families, and supported R&D 100 Award–recognized programs.
Dow provides advanced conformal coatings designed to protect and extend the life of electronic assemblies operating in demanding environments. Our silicone-based UV-curable, moisture-cure, and heat-cure coatings deliver reliable, efficient, and cost-effective defense against moisture, dust, and chemicals—helping manufacturers achieve high throughput while reducing energy consumption.
To meet diverse design and performance needs, we also offer a comprehensive portfolio of protective solutions, including potting compounds, encapsulants, protective closures, seals, and gaskets. Backed by deep technical expertise and a strong commitment to industry standards, Dow collaborates with manufacturers to address evolving requirements for reliability, qualification, and sustainability—driving innovation across a wide range of applications.
Stanton Rak, PhD President, S.F. Rak Company
Dr. Stanton Rak is president of S.F. Rak Company, a consultancy specializing in electronic packaging materials and processes for automotive and e-mobility applications. He brings more than 30 years of design and manufacturing experience with Tier 1 automotive electronics companies, including [...]
Jason Keeping Global Process Subject Matter Expert for Ruggedized Electronics, Celestica
Keeping is the Global Process Subject Matter Expert for Ruggedized Electronics at Celestica. Throughout his career, he has focused on evaluating the capabili¬ties and manufacturability of dispensing technologies, conformal coating, under¬fill chemistries, and assembly-level cleanliness. Recognized [...]
Chapter Summaries
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Chapter 0
Introduction
This book explains UV coating processes, cure technologies, and chemistries to help readers choose the best option. UV coatings also help manufacturers reduce waste, cut costs, meet regulations, and support ESG goals.
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Chapter 1
Options for Protecting Electronic Assemblies and a Deep Dive into UV Conformal Coatings
Chapter 1 explores protective options for electronic assemblies, including conformal coatings, potting, and sealing. It highlights UV conformal coatings for their rapid curing, durability, and eco-friendly benefits. Key factors such as material composition, thickness, and cure types (UV, moisture, heat) are discussed, with a focus on UV coatings as a transformative solution for manufacturing.
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Chapter 2
How UV Conformal Coatings Improve Reliability and Transform Production
Learn how UV conformal coatings fulfill the protective aspect of conformal coatings while reshaping production workflows. By examining the critical stages Connect, Clean, and Coat, the authors highlight the interplay between reliable electrical connections, surface preparation, and precise coating application.
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Chapter 3
Qualifying the Reliability of Conformal Coatings (Test Methods)
Qualifying conformal coatings ensures electronic assemblies remain reliable, safe, and durable in harsh environments. Standards such as IPC-CC-830, MIL, IEC, and UL verify performance. Unqualified coatings risk failure, electrical breakdown, recalls, and safety hazards. Rigorous qualification protects product integrity, customer safety, and brand reputation.
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Chapter 4
Advantages of UV Conformal Coatings, Case Studies
Sustainability and reliability in electronics mean efficient manufacturing and durable devices that reduce waste and the need for frequent replacements. Choosing energy-efficient, low-solvent, fast-processing materials supports these goals. Case studies are presented here that evaluate costs, energy use, materials, space, time, and overall savings.
