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How to Preserve the Performance of Thermal Conductive Silicone Pads through Proper Storage
Author:NFION Date:2024-11-01 16:12:46

Thermal conductive silicone pads are essential in heat dissipation applications for various electronic devices. Their performance depends significantly on proper storage conditions. With excellent thermal conductivity and high heat dissipation efficiency, thermal pads are widely used in electronics, LED lighting, communication devices, and computers. However, improper storage may compromise their physical properties, chemical stability, and lifespan. Nfion Thermal analyzes the storage environment requirements for thermal conductive silicone pads to help businesses and users understand how to store these materials effectively, ensuring optimal performance in real-world applications.


Thermal conductive silicone pads


 Physical and Chemical Properties of Thermal Conductive Silicone Pads

Thermal conductive silicone pads are composed of silicone resin and thermally conductive fillers, characterized by softness, elasticity, high thermal conductivity, and good insulation. Due to the flexibility and malleability of silicone, these pads can adhere closely to uneven surfaces, filling gaps and increasing contact area, thereby enhancing thermal conduction. While silicone pads are chemically stable and resistant to aging or decomposition in high temperatures and harsh environments, they are still affected by environmental factors such as humidity, temperature, and UV light. Proper storage is, therefore, crucial to maintain their integrity.

 Analysis of Storage Environment Requirements for Thermal Conductive Silicone Pads

1. Temperature Control

   - Temperature Range: The ideal storage temperature for thermal conductive silicone pads is between 15-25°C. Within this range, the material's molecular structure remains stable, avoiding oxidation at high temperatures or hardening at low temperatures.

   - High-Temperature Risks: When storage temperatures exceed 25°C, especially over 30°C, the silicone resin's molecular chains may break or change structure, causing hardening and brittleness, which reduces thermal conductivity.

   - Low-Temperature Risks: Excessively low temperatures (below 5°C) may decrease flexibility, causing potential cracking during application and reducing effective thermal contact.

2. Humidity Control

   - Humidity Range: It is recommended to maintain storage humidity between 30%-50%. High humidity may increase moisture absorption, leading to micro-accumulations of water molecules that reduce thermal filler uniformity and affect conductivity.

   - Moisture Prevention: To keep the storage environment dry, sealed packaging bags are advised, along with placing desiccants or dehumidifiers to prevent moisture from directly contacting the material.

3. Light Control

   - UV Protection: UV exposure may degrade silicone molecules, causing yellowing and brittleness. Thus, silicone pads should not be directly exposed to sunlight during storage.
   - Opaque Packaging: Using opaque packaging materials effectively prevents light from affecting the material. For long-term storage, light-avoiding environments or dark rooms are recommended.

4. Air Circulation and Cleanliness

   - Clean Environment: Thermal conductive silicone pads are sensitive to dust and particles. Small particles may affect the material's surface smoothness and thermal conductivity. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain clean air in the storage environment to avoid dust contamination.

   - Ventilation Requirements: Avoid storing silicone pads with volatile chemicals to prevent harmful gases, such as acidic or alkaline gases, from reacting with the material and reducing stability.

5. Physical Pressure and Protection Against Damage

   - Avoid Compression: Thermal conductive silicone pads are soft, and prolonged compression may cause deformation, uneven thickness, and reduced thermal performance. Hence, storage should avoid stacking or pressing.

   - Layered Protection: When storing in bulk, layered storage is recommended to prevent pads from compressing each other and to ensure each pad maintains its original shape without pressure.


Thermal conductive silicone pads


 Common Misconceptions about Storage Environment

While most users understand the basic properties of thermal conductive silicone pads, some misconceptions persist in actual storage practices:

1. Neglecting Temperature and Humidity Control: Some users believe that thermal silicone pads are environmentally adaptable and thus neglect temperature and humidity control. Long-term exposure to high temperatures and humidity, however, can accelerate material aging.

2. Exposure to Direct Sunlight: Some users overlook the effects of UV light on material aging, storing pads in locations with direct sunlight.

3. Storing with Other Materials: Some users store thermal silicone pads with items that emit volatile chemicals or have sharp edges, potentially causing material damage.

 Packaging and Protection Recommendations for Thermal Conductive Silicone Pads

For packaging and protection of thermal conductive silicone pads, the following measures are recommended:

1. Sealed Packaging: Use sealed moisture-proof packaging bags to package each pad individually, preventing moisture and contamination.

2. Protection Measures: Place desiccants inside packaging boxes and check the desiccant status regularly to ensure moisture absorption.

3. Label Management: For pads stored long-term, mark the production date and recommended usage period on the packaging. Regular inspection of stock products is advised to ensure material quality.


Thermal conductive silicone pads


 Conclusion

The storage environment is essential for the long-term performance of thermal conductive silicone pads. Proper storage conditions can effectively extend their lifespan and maintain their stable thermal and insulation properties. Users should implement strict storage guidelines concerning temperature, humidity, light exposure, air circulation, and physical protection to ensure consistent performance in thermal applications.
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