The drive to replace the use of toxic lead metal and its alloys has spurred
the development of many new lead-free solder alloys. Moreover, current lea
ded solders lack shear strength, resistance to creep and to thermal-mechani
cal fatigue. Solder that exhibits enhancements of these properties and reta
ins solderability is crucial in applications where the solder joints are su
bjected to thermal cycling, severe vibrations, and temperatures of up to 12
5 degrees C. Modified ring and plug joints were made with 18 selected lead-
free solders and three well characterized lead-containing solders. Analysis
of the results provides a guide for the design of additional testing.