Detection of ionic contaminants using the ROSE test and ion chromatography
For detection of ionic contaminants, we use the ROSE test according to IPC-TM-650 2.3.25 and ion chromatography (IC) according to IPC-TM-650 2.3.28. In the ROSE test, dissolved salts are detected using a conductivity cell, and the total amount of dissolved salts is determined. IC is a sensitive detection method used to further identify the type of dissolved ions.
Fast, reliable
measurement results
- Determination of the sum parameter for Ionic Impurities using the ROSE Test
- Assessment of the ionic contamination (anions, cations and organic acids) present on the assembly
- Qualitative and quantitative resolution of substances using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
- Assessment of unknown substances based on the retention time
- Continuous quality monitoring and surface qualification using Ion chromatography (IC)
- Analysis in accordance with standards such as IPC TM-650 2.3.25, IPC TM-650 2.3.28 or customer-specific requirements
Ion chromatography
Using Ion chromatography (IC), cations and anions are assessed with the aid of standards. In this way unknown substances can also be identified via their retention time.
Normally we analyse for you during the investigation of ionic contamination:
- Anions (bromide, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, sulphate)
- Cations (ammonium, calcium, lithium, magnesium, potassium, sodium)
- Organic acids (acetate, adipate, glutamate, malate, methane sulphonate, succinate, phthalate)
Please contact us for special analyses.
Accredited test laboratory for the analysis of ionic contamination
Identification and quantification of organic and inorganic substances, materials, residues, deposits and contaminants using FT-lR and energy dispersive (EDX) spectroscopy are accredited by Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle GmbH (DAkkS) in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025. Furthermore, all our other specialist areas have also been accredited.
You can read more about the advantages our accreditation offers you here:
Frequently asked questions about ionic impurities
Ionic contamination can have a variety of causes. Inadequate rinsing—for example, after the electroplating of a component—or flux residues after soldering are often to blame. However, incorrect handling of the affected component or simply dust can also lead to contamination.
Ionic contamination can cause, among other issues, the formation of dendrites that, in turn, can cause short circuits that destroy the entire component or cause even more damage. However, even if the damage is not so serious, ionic contamination, for instance caused by electrochemical migration, can lead to malfunctions. For this reason the measurement of ionic contamination is an important element of quality assurance.
Ionic impurities are measured, depending on the requirements, using the ROSE test or ion chromatography . While the ROSE test provides a quick overview of total contamination, ion chromatography allows for a detailed determination of individual ionic residues.
The ROSE test determines the total amount of ionic contaminants on an assembly. Ion chromatography , on the other hand, identifies and quantifies individual ion species such as chloride, sulfate, or sodium, thereby enabling a significantly more precise analysis of the contamination.
Ionic contaminants can be removed using appropriate cleaning methods, such as aqueous or solvent-based processes. It is crucial to use a cleaning process tailored to the component and to subsequently verify the cleaning results, e.g., in our Chemical Analytics.
Ionic contamination can be minimized through clean manufacturing processes, suitable materials, optimized soldering processes, and tailored assembly cleaning. Regular analyses help identify potential contamination early on and ensure consistent process quality over the long term.
Quality Analysis
the right partner for
technical cleanliness verification
Are you looking for a partner for technical cleanliness verification?
We would be pleased to advise you about the analysis options and assist you with the evaluation of particulate and filmic component cleanliness. The goal: the best, most cost-effective and most efficient analysis of your component.