PCB Materials

PCB Prepreg: Definition, Types, Applications, Thickness, and Related Questions Answered.

Learn about the definition, types, applications, thickness, and common questions answered regarding PCB Prepreg. Discover how to use PCB Prepreg in your PCB design to enhance electrical performance and physical connectivity.

PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is a very important electronic component in modern electronic industry. With the increasing demand for functionality, miniaturization and acceleration of electronic products, PCB design and manufacturing have become more complex and advanced. In the design and manufacture of multi-layer PCBs, prepreg is an indispensable material. Therefore, this article will introduce prepreg to better understand and learn the manufacturing process of multi-layer PCBs.

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What is Multilayer PCB?

Multilayer PCBs, commonly used in modern electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and industrial equipment, consist of multiple layers of PCBs stacked together with substrate layers separating them to accommodate more circuitry in a smaller area. These layers are connected via vias, which are holes drilled through the layers. To ensure durability and reliability under high-stress conditions, multilayer PCBs often use prepreg between the layers to bond them together. Prepreg is essential to the manufacturing process, as without it, the layers of the PCB may separate or delaminate, resulting in a faulty circuit board.

what is PCB layers？

A PCB layer refers to a single copper track layer in a PCB. PCBs can have one or more copper layers, with each layer connected either through small holes called vias or through surface-mount pads. The more layers a PCB has, the more complex its circuitry can be. Single-layer PCBs are the simplest and most common, while multi-layer PCBs have more than two copper layers separated by insulating material, such as prepreg. The number of layers and their arrangement depends on the complexity of the circuit and the physical constraints of the device.

what is PCB Stackups?

PCB stackup is the arrangement of multiple layers in a PCB, with each layer consisting of copper and insulating materials. The stackup defines the number of layers, their thickness, and the materials used in each layer. The purpose of the stackup is to provide a reliable electrical connection between components on different layers while minimizing the interference between signals on those layers.

The most common PCB stackup is a four-layer board, which consists of a signal layer, a ground plane layer, a power plane layer, and another signal layer. In this configuration, the power and ground planes act as a shield, reducing the EMI (Electromagnetic Interference), and providing a stable reference for the signal.

PCB stackups can range from simple two-layer designs to complex high-speed multilayer designs with many ground and power planes, signal layers, and controlled impedance routing. The choice of PCB stackup depends on factors such as the complexity of the circuit, the electrical characteristics of the signals, and the manufacturing and assembly constraints.

What is PCB Prepreg?

PCB Prepreg, also known as pre-Impregnated materials or simply Preg, is an essential component in multilayer PCBs. It is made up of fiberglass or fabric impregnated with resin, which partially sets during the Prepreg coating process. During the pressing process, this resin becomes activated, flows and bonds with other materials, such as copper foil or other layers in the PCB stackup.

The type of fiberglass used in Prepreg determines the name of the Prepreg material. For instance, the 106, 1080, 2116, and 7628 Prepregs are made of different glass fabric types, each with unique specifications like Cured Thickness, Resin Content, Weight, and Standard Size.

Prepregs play a vital role in the PCB stackup as they bind and insulate the adjacent cores or a core and layer, protecting the multilayer board from short-circuiting. They also provide insulation and improve the board’s heat resistance by binding a core to another core or a layer.

There are three different types of Prepregs – high resin (HR), medium resin (MR), and standard resin (SR) – based on the content of resin present. The best Prepreg material depends on the PCB’s thickness, layer structure, and impedance requirements. The thickness of the Prepreg varies according to the overall thickness needed in the PCB.

To use Prepreg, fiberglass is impregnated with resin before it gets laid on a PCB stackup. Once the layers are arranged, the stackup is exposed to high pressure and temperature, pressed together to form a multilayer board, and then cooled. During this process, the Prepreg softens and flows through the PCB, binding everything together. The amount of resin present in the Prepreg plays a crucial role in the thickness of the resulting laminate, as well as on other properties such as the dielectric constant and drilling and etching quality.

Resin flow is another critical concept in the lamination process of Prepreg. The amount of actual resin flow significantly impacts the interlayer adhesion, adhesion to oxide inner copper foil, overall bond sheet effects of the Prepreg, and adhesion of laminates to ED copper foils in laminate manufacturing.

Characteristics of Prepreg

Prepreg is a semi-solid composite material composed of glass fiber cloth and resin. Its main characteristics are:

Bonding strength: Prepreg is flexible before solidification and can fill the gaps between glass fiber cloths to form a high-strength bonding layer, which improves the mechanical strength and reliability of the PCB.
Adhesive property: The surface of Prepreg has certain stickiness, which can effectively prevent the displacement and delamination of glass fiber cloth.
Flowability: Prepreg has a certain flowability after thermosetting, which can fill defects such as air holes, surface micro-cracks, and wall holes of through holes to increase the density and reliability of PCB.
High temperature resistance: Prepreg has a certain stability and tolerance under high temperature, and can withstand high temperature processing and operation in various stages of PCB manufacturing.
High customization: Prepreg can meet different performance requirements, such as high-speed signal transmission, high-frequency oscillation, and high-power load, by different resin types and content, achieving high customization production.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Prepreg Thickness in PCB Manufacturing

Prepreg thickness is an important factor to consider in PCB manufacturing. The thickness of the prepreg layer can affect the final thickness of the PCB, as well as the mechanical and electrical performance of the board.

The thickness of the prepreg layer is determined by the resin content of the prepreg material. Prepreg materials with higher resin content have thinner prepreg layers, while materials with lower resin content have thicker layers. A thinner prepreg layer can result in a thinner and more compact PCB, while a thicker layer can provide better insulation and increase the mechanical strength of the board.

When choosing the appropriate prepreg thickness for a PCB design, there are several factors to consider. The type of application for the PCB, the number of layers in the board, and the thickness of the copper layers all play a role in determining the appropriate prepreg thickness.

For high-density PCB designs or designs with many layers, a thinner prepreg layer may be preferred in order to minimize the overall thickness of the board. However, for applications that require high mechanical strength, such as in aerospace or military applications, a thicker prepreg layer may be necessary.

It is also important to consider the thickness of the copper layers in the PCB design when selecting the appropriate prepreg thickness. If the copper layers are thick, then a thinner prepreg layer may be preferred in order to maintain a reasonable overall thickness for the board.

Prepregs come in various types that are selected for PCBs based on their thickness and other performance requirements. These types typically include Standard Resin (SR), Medium Resin (MR), and High Resin (HR), which differ based on their resin content. Generally, prepregs with higher resin content are more expensive. Please refer to the following table for a clearer understanding:

Prepreg Parameter Chart
Prepreg Types	Resin Content	Glass	O/A	Delta	Unsupported Resin Volume
106	75%	0.0014	0.0023	0.0009	-
1080	65%	0.0025	0.003	0.0005	Very Low
2113	56%	0.0029	0.0039	0.001	-
2116	57%	0.0038	0.0051	0.0013	-
2116	62%	0.0038	0.0061	0.0023	Very High
1652	50%	0.0045	0.0057	0.0012	-
7628	42%	0.0065	0.0069	0.0004	Very Low
7628	50%	0.0065	0.0085	0.002	Very High

Best Practices for Storing and Maintaining Prepregs in PCB Manufacturing

Prepreg is a vital material in the manufacturing process of PCBs. Here are some essential factors to keep in mind when storing and maintaining Prepreg:

Prepreg Storage Conditions:
It is crucial to store Prepreg under the recommended conditions to avoid any deterioration in quality. Prepreg should be stored in the original packaging and in a cool, dry place with a temperature range of 15-30 °C and relative humidity of 30-60%. The storage area should also be free of any potential contaminants that could compromise the quality of the Prepreg.
Effects of Prepreg Storage Time on Quality:
Prepreg has a shelf life, and it can deteriorate over time when not kept at the recommended conditions. The duration of Prepreg storage varies based on the type of Prepreg and manufacturer specifications. It is crucial to keep the duration of Prepreg storage within the recommended limits to ensure the best possible quality.
How to Store and Maintain Prepreg:
To store Prepreg, it is best to keep it in the original packaging. The package should be sealed to prevent moisture absorption or evaporation. Prepreg should be stored on its side or vertically to.prevent creases on the material. It is also essential to rotate Prepreg stock regularly to ensure that it is used within the shelf life period. Generally, Prepreg should be used within six months of purchase.

To maintain the quality of Prepreg, it is best to handle it with care to avoid any physical damage. Any contamination should be avoided during storage and use. Prepreg should also be used at room temperature and not exposed to direct sunlight or other environmental factors.

How to Choose and Use Prepreg for High-Quality PCB Manufacturing?

When it comes to high-quality PCB manufacturing, it is crucial to choose the appropriate Prepreg material. Prepreg is a resin-based material that is impregnated into glass fiber or fabric and is widely used as a bonding and insulation material in multi-layer PCBs. Prepregs are mainly categorized into three different types according to their resin content: high resin (HR), medium resin (MR), and standard resin (SR) Prepregs. Choosing the right type of Prepreg is essential for producing high-quality PCBs.

To choose the appropriate Prepreg for high-quality PCB manufacturing, several factors should be taken into account. Firstly, the dielectric constant and dissipation factor of the Prepreg material must be strictly controlled, as these properties significantly affect the signal integrity of the PCB. Secondly, the thermal properties of the Prepreg must be considered to ensure that the PCB can withstand the high temperatures encountered during the manufacturing process.

When manufacturing different types of PCBs, different types of Prepregs are often used. For high-frequency PCBs, low-loss Prepregs with controlled dielectric properties should be used to minimize signal loss. For flexible PCBs, Prepregs with high flexibility and elongation properties are more suitable. For high-temperature-resistant PCBs, it is necessary to use Prepregs with high Tg (glass transition temperature) to ensure that the PCB can withstand high temperatures.

To ensure the use of high-quality Prepregs, it is crucial to choose a reputable Prepreg supplier and establish a strict quality control system. Regular Prepreg testing must be performed to ensure that the material properties are consistent and meet the required specifications. Prepreg should also be stored in a controlled environment with a suitable temperature and humidity to prevent moisture absorption and material deterioration.

Prepreg Manufacturing Process

Prepreg manufacturing process typically involves the impregnation of a reinforcing material, such as glass fiber, with a thermoset resin. The process usually starts with the coating of a release film with a resin mixture. The release film is then passed through a heated nip roller to ensure even impregnation of the resin onto the glass fiber sheets. The impregnated material is then dried and rolled onto a core, ready for storage or further processing.

Key technical points in Prepreg manufacturing include resin mixing, impregnation, drying, and rolling. The resin mixing process needs to be precise to ensure the correct level of resin content in the Prepreg. Impregnation needs to be uniform to ensure consistency across all produced sheets. Drying temperature and time need to be carefully monitored to avoid over or under drying. Rolling needs to be precise to achieve the desired thickness and prevent delamination of the material.

There are several different manufacturing methods for Prepreg, such as solvent dip, hot melt, and powder coating. Solvent dip involves soaking the reinforcing material in a resin solution, while hot melt uses a resin film that is transferred to the reinforcing material using heat and pressure. Powder coating involves the application of dry resin onto the reinforcing material, which is then fused with heat.

Precautions to take during the Prepreg manufacturing process include ensuring proper ventilation to avoid the release of volatile organic compounds, monitoring resin mixture ratios, avoiding contamination of the materials, and following proper safety protocols when handling hot equipment or chemicals. Prepreg material should also be stored in cool, dry conditions to avoid degradation and maintain consistent quality.

FAQs on PCB Prepreg

What is PCB prepreg?

PCB prepreg is a resin-soaked material made of glass fiber or fabric that is an essential component of multi-layered circuit boards. It performs several important functions, including bonding adjacent layers and chips, providing insulation, and protecting the board against short circuits.

What are the different types of PCB prepreg?

PCB prepreg can be classified into three types based on resin content: high resin (HR), medium resin (MR), and standard resin (SR) types. Each type has different properties and is suitable for different applications.

How is PCB prepreg used in PCB manufacturing?

PCB prepreg is placed between layers of copper foil and circuit board substrate. When heated, it softens and flows, allowing components in different layers to be firmly bonded together.

How should PCB prepreg be stored?

PCB prepreg should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from absorbing moisture and degrading. It should be kept in its original packaging until ready for use.

What are the differences between various types of glass fiber for PCB prepreg?

Different types of glass fiber have different mechanical and electrical properties, which affect the performance and reliability of the PCB. Common types of glass fiber used in PCB prepreg include E-glass, S-glass, and D-glass.

What’s Resin Content in PCB PP?

Resin content, also known as resin content ratio, is the weight percentage of the resin matrix in the prepreg material. In the PCB manufacturing process, prepreg is used as the adhesive layer between copper foil layers and core layers. The resin content in prepreg plays an important role in determining the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of the final PCB. Different applications require different resin content ratios, and it is important to select the appropriate prepreg to achieve the desired performance.

What is the difference between prepreg and core?

Prepreg and core are both materials used in the manufacturing process of a multilayer printed circuit board (PCB).

Prepreg is a composite material consisting of a reinforcement material, typically fiberglass or a similar material, that has been impregnated with a resin system. Prepreg is used in the PCB manufacturing process as a bonding material that is sandwiched between copper layers or core layers.

Core is also a composite material, typically made of fiberglass reinforced with epoxy resin, that serves as a dielectric layer in the PCB stackup. It is usually a thicker layer than the prepreg and is used as the central layer in a multilayer PCB.

The main difference between prepreg and core is their thickness and function. Prepreg provides the bonding strength between layers, while core provides the thickness and insulating properties needed for the PCB structure.

What is the difference between prepreg and laminate?

Prepreg and laminate are both materials used in PCB manufacturing, but their roles and compositions are different.

Prepreg is a composite material made of fiber reinforced materials and resin. It is used as an adhesive layer between different layers of a multilayer PCB to provide bonding strength. The resin is only partially cured, leaving it in a semi-solid state, hence the name "prepreg". Prepreg typically has a thickness of a few mils to dozens of mils, depending on the required stiffness, flexibility, and insulation properties.

Laminate, on the other hand, is the base material used for making PCBs. It is made by impregnating layers of fiberglass cloth with a resin binder, which is cured to form a solid sheet. The thickness of a laminate is usually in the range of a few hundredths to a few tenths of an inch.

In summary, prepreg is a semi-cured composite material used to bond layers together in a multilayer PCB, while laminate is a fully cured sheet material used to make the base layers of a PCB.

If you are looking for high-quality and reliable PCB manufacturing services, JHYPCB can be a great choice for you. We are a Chinese PCB manufacturer offering rapid prototyping, multilayer PCB manufacturing, and other services. No matter what type of PCB you need to produce, we can provide high-quality production services and ensure delivery within the scheduled time. If you are interested in our services, please contact our customer service team immediately to get more information and start your order!