P-33 Evaluation of Anodized Aluminum for Potential Use as Interposer for Test Socket Industry

Buller Hall

Anodized aluminum displays desirable qualities as an interposer in test sockets, as it is more dimensionally accurate than traditional polymers and less expensive than alternatives. However, the metal must withstand extensive heating and cooling cycles. Using a scanning electron microscope, we can compare the surface of the anodized aluminum before and after cycling to ensure that the difference in thermal expansion rates of the oxide and aluminum is not enough to cause critical defects. Initial observations suggest that the difference in expansion rates does not compromise the oxide layer, making anodized aluminum a strong candidate as a new interposer material.