A SGT-4 thermal paste is at the center of an international controversy. Investigators discovered that the compound, manufactured in South Korea and sold globally, can release acidic vapors that corrode metal surfaces, such as the copper in coolers, and even permanently glue the heatsink to the processor. The investigation revealed that the SGT-4 thermal paste not only compromises thermal performance, but can also cause irreversible damage to hardware.
Despite being a popular option in online stores due to its low price and good reviews, SGT-4 revealed unusual chemical behavior. Tests carried out by specialist Igor Wallosek showed that the product, although advertised as PMDS silicone-based, contains a reactive additive known as acetoxic curing RTV siliconea substance that releases acetic acid when it comes into contact with moisture. This acid is the same one found in vinegar, which explains the strong smell reported by users.
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Acid vapors and corrosion in copper
The problem is that the acetic acid reacts with metals, causing oxidation, stains and corrosion on copper surfaces. During continuous use, the reaction causes discoloration and formation of microscopic cratersa phenomenon described as “ant nest corrosion” — corrosion in the shape of an ant’s nest.
Furthermore, the material ends up acting like a type of glue, making it difficult to remove the cooler without damaging the processor. As already shown in curious experiments, when an AI suggested Nutella instead of thermal paste and the result was catastrophic, the case of SGT-4 reinforces the risks of applying inappropriate substances to modern processors.
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Thermal performance well below expectations
According to Igor’s laboratory, thermal conductivity tests showed results well below those announced by the manufacturer. The hypothesis is that the corrosion generated by the acid creates new imperfections between the CPU and the heatsink, reducing the efficiency of heat exchange. In practice, what should improve cooling ends up harming thermal performance — a contrast to emerging technologies such as CPU cooling using carbon nanotubes, which could even retire traditional thermal paste.
Korean community confirms damage
User reports on the South Korean website Quasarzone reinforce the findings. Several consumers reported Faded identification marks on CPUs, visible discoloration and corrosion on the copper bases of the coolers. The images released show irregular stains and points of oxidation that compromise the integrity of the metal.
The company Amechalso known as Aimacwas sought after by consumers, but the answer generated even more controversy. Instead of clarifying the chemical composition of the product or commenting on laboratory tests, brand representatives responded with personal insults and ironiesdenying the accusations and stating that the department complies with environmental standards RoHS e REACH. However, these certifications only guarantee that the product does not contain prohibited toxic substances — they do not evaluate chemical reactions with metals during use.
Amech also tried to discredit the author of the investigation, referring to him only as “the person from Germany”, without offering any technical counter-proof. To date, the manufacturer did not reveal the full composition of SGT-4, and the case caused a wave of distrust among hardware enthusiasts and technicians.
Fonte: tomshardware
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Source: https://www.adrenaline.com.br/hardware/pasta-termica-sgt-4-causa-corrosao-em-cpus-e-coolers-revela-investigacao/
