Questions
From Readers
"We are a manufacturer
of electronic assemblies and some of our personnel are wanting to purchase I.C.
Lotion which is suppose to be a non-contaminating hand lotion for assemblers and
technicians. I have been unable to find anything in Specifications for ESD control
that either approves or disapproves the use of this lotion. Please advise if you
know if this is acceptable for use when handling components and if it could also
effect the solderability of the components. The lotion is formulated with Aloe
Vera and Vitamin E."
Click
here to see the ESD Journal Technical Expert's Answer
Response
from Ingrid Cohen, Static Solutions, Inc.
I
agree with the answer provided. It's a good idea to ask that a manufacturer provide
independent test data to support any claim made, ESD related or not. This is especially
prevalent when the product could effect something as important as solderability.
I wanted to share with the reader
and any interested people a little more about ESD hand lotion.
Hand lotions
are used to add moisture to skin when entering into a controlled low humidity
cleanroom, after solvent exposure or rough hand soldering. I've found that employees
need to be provided an ESD lotion and educated why any lotion used needs to be
an ESD one. Some wriststrap manufactures will suggest that the use of ESD lotion
promotes the wriststrap performance, but I've never seen any research to prove
that claim.
Why are ESD hand lotions needed? The skin produces oils which
contain chloride and sulfates which can turn into acid containing compounds (HCL
and sulphuric acid when exposed to water). This is a major concern in high humidity
environments (which are used to reduce static electricity generation). Under normal
circumstances these oils are not harmful, but they will greatly effect the solderability
of sensitive piece parts such as circuit boards.
Please make sure your
readers know to the dangers of PARABENS. The EPA has documented that parabens
displayed endocrine disrupting behavior when used on the body. The endocrine system
includes the hypothalamus, ovaries, and thyroid. The use of parabens has been
documented to cause birth defects as well.
When purchasing an ESD lotion,
one should look for a formula that does not contain ingredients which could outgas
and therefore negatively effect solderability. These ingredients include, but
are not limited to glycerins, phthalates, fragrances and colorants.
One
should note the importance of using a hand lotion to eliminate dry skin flaking
especially in the Cleanroom. It should not be greasy and also be easily absorbed
by the skin.
A good ESD hand lotion should be formulated to promote healthy
skin nutrition ideally it should contain vitamins A, D, E and aloe vera.
I do not want to hide that the company for whom I work is Static Solutions
and we manufacture an ESD hand lotion. I wanted to disclose this information up
front as not to appear to be hiding anything.
Thank you,
Ingrid
Cohen
Static Solutions, Inc.
