Phase Change Material Is Viable Thermal Grease Alternative

With a thermal conductivity of 4.0 W/mK, the Tpcm 580SP Series phase change material is screen printable or stencilable and presents itself as an alternative to thermal grease. The PCM pad contains a solvent that allows for wetting of the surface. After drying, the solvent is dry to the touch, and therefore eliminates the mess common to thermal grease. Once the solvent is removed, Tpcm 580SP begins to soften and flow at temperatures around 45°C, minimizing thermal contact resistance by filling in the microscopic irregularities of the components it touches. The material is available in a 0.5-kg or 1-kg can. LAIRD TECHNOLOGIES, St. Louis, MO. (888) 246-9050.