Plasmatreat showcases plasma technologies at PCIM 2025
At PCIM Expo 2025, Plasmatreat GmbH in Nuremberg will be showcasing advanced solutions for surface treatment in power module production. These include processes for reducing oxide layers on copper surfaces and improving surface adhesion.
Plasmatreat's presence at the PCIM 2025 trade fair from May 6 to 8, 2025 in Nuremberg (stand 169, hall 7) will focus on the Openair Plasma, PlasmaPlus and the new Redox application technologies, which can be used to solve key challenges in the production of modern power modules efficiently and reliably - even under cleanroom conditions. Power modules are essential components in numerous areas of power electronics, including e-mobility, renewable energies, industrial automation and medical technology. They have to withstand high thermal and electrical loads over long periods of time - with a compact design and maximum reliability. Transition temperatures in excess of 175 °C, electrical voltages in the kilovolt range and outputs of several hundred kilowatts place the highest demands on the materials and their connections. Especially at so-called "triple points", where materials such as copper, ceramics and potting compounds meet, adhesion problems, stresses or air inclusions often occur, which can impair the service life of the modules.
Plasma technologies for surface modification
A central problem is the formation of oxide on copper surfaces, which leads to increased contact resistance and poor solderability. Delamination during overmolding processes, for example due to poor adhesion of epoxy potting compounds, also poses a significant risk to mechanical integrity. To meet these challenges, Plasmatreat relies on proven and new plasma technologies for targeted, chemical-free surface modification. The new redox tool enables selective inline oxide reduction on metallic surfaces - completely without flux. This improves electrical conductivity and creates optimum conditions for subsequent process steps. In combination with PlasmaPlus, a functional nano-coating (PT-Bond) is then applied, which significantly increases adhesion in the overmolding process and prevents delamination. Thanks to the dry, VOC-free and inline-capable processes, Plasmatreat's solutions can be seamlessly integrated into existing production lines. Cleanroom suitability and process-reliable functionality make them an important building block for the quality and durability of modern power modules. Another highlight at the trade fair stand is the Plasma Treatment Unit (PTU), in which surface treatment with open-air plasma and PlasmaPlus is demonstrated under robotic control.