What is the Difference Between Hermetic and Non-hermetic Packaging?

The main difference between hermetic and non-hermetic packaging lies in their gas and moisture permeability, as well as the materials used for each type of packaging. Here are the key differences:

• Hermetic Packaging:
• Offers a very high level of protection against gas, moisture, and other external factors.
• Typically made from materials such as glass, aluminum cans, metal foils, and gas-impermeable plastics.
• Provides enhanced longevity, harsh environment reliability, and performance and efficiency increases.
• Commonly used in military, aerospace, microchipping, and other critical applications.
• Generally more expensive than non-hermetic packaging.
• Non-Hermetic Packaging:
• Made from materials like silicone, LCP, polyimide, and parylene, which have higher gas and moisture permeability.
• Provides a lower level of protection compared to hermetic packaging.
• Typically used for applications with lower reliability and operational requirements.
• May experience critical moisture levels and outgassing issues due to the sealing materials.
• Generally less expensive than hermetic packaging.

In summary, hermetic packaging is designed for applications that require a high level of protection against external factors, while non-hermetic packaging is used for applications with lower reliability and operational requirements. The choice between the two types of packaging depends on the performance requirements, technical design specifications, and operating conditions of the specific application.

Comparative Table: Hermetic vs Non-hermetic Packaging

Here is a table comparing hermetic and non-hermetic packaging:

Hermetic packaging offers a higher level of protection against external factors like gas and moisture, making it suitable for mission-critical applications. On the other hand, non-hermetic packaging is made from materials with higher gas and moisture permeability, making it less suitable for aggressive in vivo environments. Non-hermetic packaging generally has a lower cost compared to hermetic packaging.