Parylene is a coating application that covers many day-to-day systems that we interact with. It's a process that must be correct though as minor issues cause significant problems. Here are three things to know about parylene delamination.
1. The Cause of Delamination
When adhesion between the surface and parylene coating is faulty, it’s called delamination. There doesn't need to be full separation for it to qualify as delamination as even partial lifting negates the purpose of the protective coating. Any exposed fragment of the surface that is supposed to be covered can cause damage.
When parylene is not fully attached to the surface, it is a mechanical error that can be caused by a few different factors. Either it was a poor parylene and substrate compatibility, overly thick coating, or excess moisture on the substrate surface.
2. How to Repair Parylene
The unique chemically resistant parylene is difficult to repair. To rework parylene, a specialized technique and training is required. You will just need to focus on reworking one localized spot most of the time. It is much more labor-intensive to fix an entire panel.
When you think of coatings, you probably imagine some sort of liquid that drys to form a protective layer. Parylene is a type of conformal coating that begins as a powder. It forms a plastic film that forms a layer of protection. It is a complex process that exists on the surface of everyday items around us.
3. Prevention Tips
As always, the best way to save yourself the hassle of reworking parylene is to take preventative measures. First and foremost is surface cleanliness. Before applying a coat of parylene double check that your surface is free of dirt, mold, and any other substances. Second, reduce coat thickness. The thicker the parylene, the more brittle and unstable it becomes.
