“Molecular Spectroscopy Is Applicable To All Types Of PCBs”

Dr Atul Lavand, Application Product Specialist at Thermo Fisher Scientific, observes that favourable government policies are drawing foreign PCB manufacturers to India—driving demand for molecular spectroscopy. In conversation with EFY's Yashasvini Razdan, he discusses its role in PCB failure analysis and material identification.

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How is molecular spectroscopy used in the semiconductor and electronics industry?

In electronics, the primary focus is on research and development (R&D) teams, especially those working in PCB manufacturing. Molecular spectroscopy plays a crucial role in failure analysis. If a PCB fails, our Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscope can map and analyse specific areas of the board. FTIR light is directed onto the targeted region, producing a spectrum. This is then matched with a reference library to pinpoint the material responsible for the failure. Once identified, manufacturers can refine their processes to avoid similar issues in future.

Our FTIR microscopes are now in use with major electronics manufacturers, helping them pinpoint failure causes and improve production processes.

Are there other spectroscopy techniques or devices used in molecular spectroscopy?