Knowledge corner｜How to determine whether the chip pin is oxidized? Common oxidation phenomena and color guidelines

As a small partner who has purchased electronic components, we all know the importance of electronic components chip pins in the use process. However, the issue of pin oxidation is a challenge we often face. Pin oxidation can have a negative impact on the performance and reliability of the chip, so we are very concerned about how to determine whether the pin oxidation has occurred. Understanding the related phenomena and color changes of pin oxidation can help us to be more alert when purchasing and using chips to detect and solve potential oxidation problems in a timely manner. In this article, we will explore some common oxidation phenomena and colors in order to better understand the signs of pin oxidation and thus guarantee the stable operation of our chip. Let's take a look!

When the chip pin is oxidized, some of the following phenomena and colors may occur:

Color change: Some metal pins show a change in color when oxidized. Usually, the pins change from bright silver or gold to gray, black, brown, or green. This color change may be due to the oxidation of the metal to form an oxide layer. For example, copper pins often appear green, which is due to copper oxidation to produce cupric oxide (green copper rust).

Oxidation spots: Spots of oxide may appear on the surface of the oxidation pin. These spots usually have an irregular shape and distribution, and may appear as black spots, green rust, or brown patches, indicating that the pin has been oxidized. These oxidation spots are the result of the reaction that occurs when the metal is in contact with oxygen for a long time, forming oxides.

Corrosion marks: Pin oxidation may also lead to the formation of corrosion marks. Corrosion marks usually appear as depressed or raised areas where the surface may have eroded or produced rough lines. This is due to the damage of the oxide to the metal surface resulting in varying degrees of corrosion on the pin surface.

Pin surface scaly: In the case of severe oxidation, the pin surface may appear scaly spalling or peeling. In this case, the pin surface may become uneven or not smooth, which may affect the pin's connection and contact performance.

Deposits: There may be deposits on the surface of the oxidation pin due to the by-product of reactions with other substances in the air during the oxidation process. These deposits can be gray, white, black and other colors, and the specific color of the deposit may be related to the pin material, the type of oxide, and environmental conditions.

Leakage or poor contact: Due to the presence of oxides, the electrical signal transmission between the pin and other circuits or devices may be hindered or attenuated, resulting in poor circuit connections, unstable signal transmission, and even leakage. This is because the formation of oxides increases the resistance between the pin and other components, affecting the normal flow of current.

Abnormal resistance: Pin oxidation may also cause an increase in the contact resistance of the pin. In general, the contact resistance of the pin should be low, but when the pin oxidizes, the oxide will increase the resistance, resulting in higher resistance when the signal is transmitted. This may cause circuit performance to deteriorate, signal quality to deteriorate, and even cause circuit failure.

Increased temperature: Pin oxidation may cause the pin to heat up more significantly during normal operation, because the oxide may hinder the heat transfer between the pin and other devices when energized. This can adversely affect the reliability and stability of the chip and the entire circuit, and can damage the pins and the components around them.

The above are some common phenomena and color changes that may occur in pin oxidation, but the small editor needs to state that the most accurate diagnosis and solution still requires the judgment of professional instrument testing and electronic technology professionals. If pin oxidation is suspected but uncertain, consult a professional for accurate inspection and repair.