Low-Volatility Gap Filler

February 1, 2016

Ryan Gehm

Henkel Adhesive Technologies has formulated Gap Filler 3500LV to deliver high thermal conductivity of 3.5 W/m-K and the mechanical property benefits of a silicone, but with low volatility for reduced outgassing. The miniaturization trend has put new demands on thermal management requirements, according to Henkel. Providing adequate material coverage for thermal control is challenging, so the use of a liquid material that can fill tiny gaps and flow around complex architectures is critical to ensuring product functionality and reliability. Gap Filler 3500LV is a two-part material that cures at room temperature with the option of accelerated curing through the addition of heat. Compared to competitive materials that provide higher volatiles variability, the Gap Filler’s low volatile content is tightly controlled lot to lot, according to Henkel, ensuring outgassing is kept to a minimum. The solution is beneficial in applications that require the optics to remain free of lens fogging such as automotive headlamps and high-intensity LEDs, in addition to industrial PLC controllers on paint lines, automotive infotainment, cameras, and lighting systems. Once cured, Gap Filler 3500LV is a soft material that provides protection from shock and vibration.