Webinar: Shaping the Future of Protective Electronic Coating Materials
Phil Kinner
Head of R&D
MacDermid Alpha
Mélanie Mathon
R&D Manager
Inventec Performance Chemicals
Shaping the Future of Protective Electronic Coating Materials
The IEC 61086 standard—long the global benchmark for conformal electronic coatings—is undergoing a major revision. For the first time, the updated standard will formally recognize nano/ultra-thin Conformal Coatings and exclude materials containing PFAS, reflecting the industry’s shift toward safer, next-generation solutions.
UECA Technical Directors Phil Kinner and Mélanie Mathon have been appointed to lead this critical rewrite as part of the IEC TC15/WG7 committee, representing the interests of all current UECA member companies.
Why This Matters
With growing demand for reliable protection in high-density, miniaturized electronics operating in harsh environments, conformal coatings have become essential—not optional. End users increasingly require validated data on electrical and physical properties, and the revised IEC 61086 will ensure all coating materials, including ultra-thin technologies, meet these expectations.
Failure to include ultra-thin coatings in this standard could lead to their exclusion from future PCB designs—despite their importance for advanced applications.
Elimination of PFAS
As regulatory and customer pressure to remove PFAS chemicals intensifies, the new IEC standard will seek to exclude all PFAS-containing coatings—aligning the industry with safer, more sustainable practices.
Standards Gap for Ultra-Thin Coatings
Currently, no global standard defines the use of ultra-thin conformal coatings on printed circuit assemblies. While the IP (Ingress Protection) rating addresses enclosure protection, it does not cover the electrical performance of these materials. This rewrite fills that critical gap.
Get Involved—Before It’s Too Late
Companies looking to shape the future of electronic protection must act now. Join UECA this month to contribute to the standard rewrite and ensure your voice is captured.
Learn More
Have questions? Want to learn more? UECA will be holding an informational webinar on October 14th, 2025. Secure your spot by registering here.
About the IEC Committee
The IEC TC15/WG7 committee—responsible for international standards on insulating resins, varnishes, and coatings—includes 24 global members from 8 countries. Broad industry input is essential to guide the rewrite toward relevant, forward-looking outcomes.
The IEC 61086 revision process begins Autumn 2025.
