Correlation-driven machine learning for accelerated reliability assessment of solder joints in electronics

Abstract The quantity and variety of parameters involved in the failure evolutions in solder joints under a thermo-mechanical process directs the reliability assessment of electronic devices to be frustratingly slow and expensive. To tackle this challenge, we develop a novel machine learning framework for reliability assessment of solder joints in electronic systems; we propose a correlation-driven neural network model that predicts the useful lifetime based on the materials properties, device configuration, and thermal cycling variations. The results indicate a high accuracy of the prediction model in the shortest possible time. A case study will evaluate the role of solder material and the joint thickness on the reliability of electronic devices; we will illustrate that the thermal cycling variations strongly determine the type of damage evolution, i.e., the creep or fatigue, during the operation. We will also demonstrate how an optimal selection of the solder thickness balances the damage types and considerably improves the useful lifetime. The established framework will set the stage for further exploration of electronic materials processing and offer a potential roadmap for new developments of such materials.