Arkema Inc. and its predecessor companies have been producing methanesulfonic acid (MSA) for over 30 years—longer than any other manufacturer. Over time, as the needs of the electronics market have become more stringent, Arkema has made continuous improvements to its technology and hence, its product. These improvements have led to the development of E-PURE MSA^® electrolyte, a new grade of MSA specifically engineered for use in the plating of electronic components.

One of the primary markets for MSA is the electroplating of electronic components such as lead frames, connectors, printed circuit boards, and wire. These plating baths are complex formulations of MSA, its salts, and performance-enhancing additives. Under the environment of an electroplating bath, low-level impurities in the bath can lead to the generation of odorous compounds in the vapor phase. E-PURE MSA^® electrolyte was designed to reduce the formation of odor-causing precursors, thus, minimizing their odor-causing decomposition products, and significantly improving the work environment.

As a world leader in organosulfur chemistry, Arkema has developed expertise in the identification and minimization of odorous compounds. Its state-of-the-art technical facilities in Lacq, France and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, USA are uniquely equipped for this task. Arkema has conducted extensive experiments at these facilities over the last two years to identify the odor-causing precursors in MSA. The experiments have demonstrated that the perception of odor from electrolyte made with MSA is due to a synergy between two classes of organosulfur compounds present in parts-per- billion concentrations.

E-PURE MSA^® electrolyte was developed to eliminate the production of these very dilute impurities. By reducing the production of the synergistic impurities, the E-PURE MSA^® process eliminates the opportunity for odor formation without adversely affecting the purity of the product. It is the only product designed specifically to electronic performance specifications and odor elimination.

For more information about Arkema's new E-PURE MSA^® electrolyte‚ please contact us.

Influence of Sulfate in Acid Tin Methanesulfonate Plating Solutions
(PDF) (76.5 KB)

Influence of Cl-MSA in Acid Tin Methanesulfonate Plating Solutions
(PDF) (72.9 KB)

Influence of Chloride in Acid Tin Methanesulfonate Plating Solutions
(PDF) (69 KB)

Please feel free to contact us to answer your questions about Arkema's E-PURE MSA® Electrolyte. Send your e-mail requests to arkema.phil-oc-customer-service@arkemagroup.com and your request will be responded to immediately.

For pricing and availability questions please contact:
Thomas Lusch
Account Representative
1 (800) 628 - 4453