Dow launches new DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating for harsh environments, greater sustainability

Dow (NYSE: Dow) introduced new DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating, a tough, abrasion-resistant silicone-based material that protects printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic components against high humidity and corrosion. This highly reliable silicone-based coating is virtually odorless and offers extremely low volatile organic compounds (VOCs). DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating cures at room temperature for reduced energy consumption, supports spraying for higher throughputs and enables automated inspection equipment to use ultraviolet light (UV) to identify any voids in the conformal coating. “Dow’s silicone-based conformal coatings can resist extremely harsh environments while supporting environmental sustainability and manufacturing productivity,” said Tong Wu, industrial electronics, global segment leader at Dow. “New DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating has an attractive balance of properties and is an important addition to our portfolio because it addresses customer needs and industry trends in PCB manufacturing and assembly.”

New DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating cures without ovens to form a tough, scratch-resistant surface. While traditional silicones offer resistance to humidity, high temperatures and chemicals, they may lack abrasion resistance because of their rubbery nature. However, Dow’s new DOWSIL material, once cured, is comparable to other resin conformal coatings in terms of toughness. With a durometer of 76 Shore A, DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating offers good mechanical strength to resist damage. It also provides reliable adhesion without the delamination associated with acrylate conformal coatings and the darkening associated with polyurethane products. At room temperature, DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating has five minutes of tack time to support assembly adjustments before permanent bonding occurs.

Designed for harsh environments, DOWSIL™ CC-2588 Conformal Coating combines a UL 94 V-0 flammability rating with excellent electrical properties. Lab testing demonstrates that this protective coating meets IPC-CC-830B, Amendment 1 requirements for insulation resistance and dielectric withstanding voltage. Insulation resistance testing measures the total resistance between any two points separated by electrical insulation and, therefore, determines the effectiveness with which a test specimen resists the flow of electrical current.

To learn more, visit Dow’s at www.dow.com