Anisotropic Conductive Films (ACFs) are widely recognized as essential components in fine-pitch interconnection technology, especially in electronic packaging. They are favored due to their reliability in minimizing electrical interconnection problems, such as high contact resistance and open or short circuits. ACFs work as conductive adhesives, consisting of a carefully chosen binder mixed with electrically conductive particles (CP). The type of CP used can vary depending on the specific needs or applications, allowing for flexibility in design and performance.
According to a report by Kings Research, the worldwide anisotropic conductive film market size is anticipated to reach USD 4.15 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 5.88% between 2023 and 2030.
In this blog, let us discover the types of ACFs and key players in the ACF market.
What Are the Types of Anisotropic Conductive Films?
There are several types of ACFs based on their composition and application. Given below are a few types of ACFs:
1. Thermosetting Anisotropic Conductive Films
These ACFs are based on thermosetting polymers like epoxy, which require heat to cure and harden.
2. Thermoplastic Anisotropic Conductive Films
These ACFs are made from thermoplastic polymers, which become soft when heated and can be remolded upon cooling.
3. UV-Curable Anisotropic Conductive Films
ACFs cured using ultraviolet (UV) light. The UV light initiates the curing process to achieve conductivity and adhesion.
4. Pressure-Sensitive Anisotropic Conductive Films
These ACFs adhere and become conductive when pressure is applied without the need for heat or UV light.
Each type of ACF offers different advantages depending on the specific requirements of the electronic assembly, such as temperature sensitivity, reworkability, and speed of application.
Top 8 Anisotropic Conductive Film Vendors
Here is the list of the 8 key players in the anisotropic conductive film market:
1. 3M
3M is a manufacturer of anisotropic conductive Film. ACFs produced by the company are widely used in the electronics industry. It finds applications in liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).
3M's ACF consists of a thermosetting epoxy/acrylate adhesive matrix that is loaded with conductive particles. This unique composition allows for vertical conductivity while maintaining electrical insulation in the horizontal plane. This is essential for preventing short circuits in electronic devices.
2. SunRay Scientific
SunRay Scientific produces a specialized anisotropic conductive epoxy known as ZTACH ACE. This innovative material facilitates electrical interconnections in various electronic applications, particularly where flexibility and reliability are crucial.
ZTACH ACE allows electrical conduction in the Z-axis (vertical) while maintaining insulation in the X-Y plane (horizontal). This unique property is essential for applications where space is limited and precise electrical connections are required.
3. PVA TePla America
PVA TePla America manufactures anisotropic conductive films. It is a specialized adhesive film primarily used in the electronics industry, particularly for applications in flat panel displays and surface-mount technology (SMT). ACF is designed to provide electrical connections while maintaining mechanical stability, making it ideal for various electronic components.
PVA TePla America's ACF is a critical component in modern electronics manufacturing. It offers unique properties that enhance the performance and reliability of electronic devices.
4. DELO Industrial Adhesives LLC
DELO Industrial Adhesives LLC manufactures high-quality anisotropic conductive films designed for reliable fine-pitch interconnections in electronic packaging. These ACFs ensure precise and durable electrical connections, offering solutions for reducing issues such as high contact resistance or circuit failures.
DELO's ACFs are engineered for various advanced applications in industries like consumer electronics and automotive. They emphasize customization, allowing the conductive particles in the films to be tailored to meet specific performance requirements.
5. Pixel Interconnect
Pixel Interconnect manufactures anisotropic conductive film bonding equipment that supports:
- TAB (Tape Automated Bonding)
- COF (Chip On Film)
- COG (Chip On Glass) technologies
Their ACF solutions are primarily used in LCD and OLED assembly, providing advanced bonding capabilities for electronic components. These systems are designed for precise assembly, repair, and optical bonding lines, ensuring high-quality and reliable connections in fine-pitch interconnect applications. The company also offers robust technical and service support for its equipment.
6. Dexerials Corporation
Dexerials offers various ACF products tailored for specific applications, such as:
- PAF400 Series: Designed for direct bonding of driver ICs to substrates in flat panel displays, providing excellent conductivity and insulation properties.
- Particle-Arrayed ACF (ArrayFIX): This innovative product features a technology that aligns conductive particles uniformly within a thermosetting resin, enhancing performance for fine-pitch connections.
7. Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA is a player in the adhesive technologies sector, producing a variety of innovative materials, including ACF. Henkel is committed to sustainability, and its ACF products are developed with environmentally friendly practices in mind, aligning with the company's broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing recyclability in packaging and adhesive solutions.
8. Resonac
Showa Denko and Showa Denko Materials (formerly Hitachi Chemical) have merged and rebranded themselves as "Resonac." This transformation reflects their new identity and marks a strategic shift in combining their expertise and capabilities under a unified name. Resonac provides Anisotropic Conductive Films (ACF) as part of its portfolio in display and sensor-related materials.
Top 8 Anisotropic Conductive Film Manufacturing Companies in a Nutshell
Applications of ACFs range from LCDs, touch panels, and semiconductor packaging to flexible printed circuits (FPCs). These ACFs offer high reliability and fine-pitch connections for modern electronic devices. This blog of the top 8 anisotropic conductive film manufacturers will give you an overview of the key players in the ACF manufacturing industry.
