Case 1701 ยท Public preview
Sulfur Diffusion Through Silicone Can Corrode LED Lead Frames Open
Multiple LEDs developed open-circuit failures while neighboring functional LEDs retained consistent forward voltage.
Electrical testingOptical microscopyMicrosectioningSEMEDSFTIR
What the evidence preview establishes
Sulfur corroded the silver-plated lead frames in the exposed LED cavities and produced open circuits. Silver protected within the molded body remained intact, while FTIR identified the clear lens as silicone, a material that did not provide an effective sulfur diffusion barrier.
Why this case matters
A transparent LED lens may provide optical and mechanical protection without providing a chemical barrier. For sulfur-sensitive lighting systems, evaluate lens permeability, silver-finish compatibility, environmental sulfur sources, and protected-versus-exposed metallization in cross section.
Full evidence reserved for MEMBER and STOREThe complete case includes the evidence sequence, four interpreted figures, alternative explanations, limitations, and practical application guidance.