This paper compares the efficiency of two thermosetting and one thermoplast
ic conductive adhesives for surface mount technology (SMT) assemblies. Thei
r reliability is evaluated during accelerated life tests through electrical
and mechanical measurements. Contact metallizations are taken into account
. Finite element simulations confirm the experimental results, and a parame
tric study permits us to define some choice criteria for the physical prope
rties of adhesives. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.