Distance from the Neutral Axis Can Expose a Connector CTE-Mismatch Problem

What the evidence preview establishes

The failures were caused by creep rupture driven by CTE mismatch between the plastic connector housing and alumina substrate. Gold embrittlement was not considered a likely factor.

Why this case matters

Compare nominally identical joints at different distances from the neutral axis. A damage gradient concentrated in outer rows is strong evidence of package-to-substrate CTE mismatch and can distinguish design-driven creep from composition-driven embrittlement.