Everwide newsletter No.462

Experiment § Fluorescence enables precise adhesive release

In the electronic packaging industry, UV-release adhesive tapes are commonly used as auxiliary materials. Their key feature is that upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, their adhesion decreases, making it easier to remove components or substrates. A common challenge with release tapes is that after removal, small amounts of adhesive residue may remain, which are often difficult to detect with the eye and can affect subsequent processes or product quality. To address this issue, we have developed a detection mechanism similar to anti-counterfeiting techniques: a fluorescent substance is added to the GS855-1 adhesive layer. After exposure to a 365 nm UV lamp at 440 mJ/cm² and subsequent tape removal, the absence of fluorescence on the substrate indicates effective release (Figs. 1–3), whereas the presence of fluorescence indicates residual tape on the substrate (Figs. 4–5). This technique is not only harmless to humans and the environment but also enhances the visualization of the tape, making quality inspection more straightforward. Welcome to contact us for more information.                                                             —Author: Mr. Shih Yao-Wei

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Activity § 2025 Rocket Taiwan Cup

The 2025 Rocket Taiwan Cup was Taiwan’s first-ever rocket competition and also the first of its kind in Asia, making it extremely meaningful for us. In the competition, every rocket used the same solid propellant, while each team applied its own design and integration skills (Fig. 1). The main goal of the contest was to ignite students’ passion for science and to cultivate the courage to face failure fearlessly. The most exciting moment was when the first-place rocket released a drone at its highest altitude and successfully returned to base (Fig. 2). We were delighted to sponsor the materials used in this competition, including the resin for the solid propellant and the adhesives for the fins and rocket body. We were also honored to be invited to the event, where we witnessed firsthand the creativity and ingenuity of these young students (Figs. 3–5).

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Knowledge § What are self-assembling polymers?

Self-assembling polymers are typically block copolymers composed of two or three different monomers. One type of monomer forms the hard segment, while another forms the soft segment. When such polymers are dissolved in a resin, during the curing process, the polymers undergo phase separation to form particles, with the soft segments located in the core and the hard segments forming the shell. This phenomenon results in particles that are uniform in size, shape, and structure, as if they have self-organized, which is why they are referred to as self-assembling polymers.

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Living §  No criticism, no complaints, no blame

Carnegie Training lists “no criticism, no complaints, no blame” as the first principle for building good interpersonal relationships. The logic seems simple and easy to understand: criticism, complaints, and blame only provoke resentment; at most, they may force superficial compliance, but they cannot truly solve problems. Most people cannot avoid criticizing, complaining, or blaming because these are the quickest and cheapest ways to vent emotions. A colleague once asked me: if people who work diligently all follow the principle of “no criticism, no complaints, no blame,” wouldn’t that end up condoning those who slack off? This question made me think for a long time. This principle is actually a matter of self-discipline, not a standard to judge others. Whether others can follow it or not has nothing to do with whether we ourselves can. If we want to become better and happier people, we should practice “no criticism, no complaints, no blame” ourselves. This attitude is a starting point. When we let go of meaningless criticism, we can focus our energy on “what is the right thing to do?” Only by asking this question can we hope to improve the situation. At first glance, “no criticism, no complaints, no blame” may seem passive, as if it asks us to remain silent. In fact, it is not. Keeping silent, thinking carefully, and taking action—what could be more proactive than that? No wonder Mr. Carnegie made this principle the point of training.    —Author: Dr. Li Ming-Hsu