Low shrinkage cationic epoxy for automotive active alignment 15 June 2021

Dymax has developed a light and/or heat-curable cationic epoxy for active alignment of camera modules, optical components, LiDAR (light detection and ranging), and other ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) assemblies used in automotive applications.

Optical components, lenses in cameras, CCD chips or complex optical devices need to be positioned economically and efficiently. Active alignment is the primary solution for making high-precision image systems manufacturable and feasible in final products, where devices need to align down to micron accuracy. 9803 has very low volumetric shrinkage, high Tg, and low coefficient thermal expansion (CTE), and was developed to meet these rigorous active alignment requirements.

The flexibility to cure very fast with broad spectrum UV light, LED light, or low temperature heat accommodates a variety of application needs. As our next generation cationic epoxy, 9803 and has improved 85°C/85% RH resistance, exhibits less overall movement through thermal excursions, and features higher viscosity and thixotropy to maintain bead shape upon dispense. In addition, the material can be refrigerated and shipped/stored at 1°C  - 5°C, and not frozen. Dymax 9803 meets NASA ASTM E595 low outgassing specifications making this solution ideal for critical optical components. All these characteristics help manufacturers improve time to market, reduce scrap costs, and enhance overall image quality.

Typical camera module applications include bonding the lens barrel to holder, lens bonding, and bonding the holder to printed circuit boards (PCBs).

Claire Aldridge Deputy Editor t: +44 (0) 1727 743 889

Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.

Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.