Case Study: How SAM Handled a Calcium Oxide Target Cracking Incident

Background

A customer contacted Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM) regarding an issue with a Calcium Oxide (CaO) sputtering target that had been delivered in perfect condition—vacuum-sealed, unopened, and stored carefully in a plastic container.

Months later, without having used the target, the customer discovered visible cracks on the surface. They emphasized that the packaging had never been opened, the target was kept at room temperature, and handling had been minimal and cautious. A replacement was requested.

Technical Review & Findings

Our engineering and quality control teams reviewed the incident in detail. Based on the customer's description and photos, combined with internal manufacturing records, we found:

• The product was packaged according to SAM's standard for sensitive materials: vacuum-sealed, cushioned, and moisture-isolated.

• There were no signs of handling error or improper storage.

• CaO is a hygroscopic material, meaning it naturally absorbs moisture from the air, even through minor seal breaches or over long periods.

• The customer did not transfer the product into a dry storage environment, and the target was not used promptly after delivery.

Our conclusion: The cracking was not caused by a manufacturing or packaging defect, but rather by the inherent moisture sensitivity of CaO combined with delayed usage.

Our Response

At Stanford Advanced Materials, we don't just provide materials—we provide solutions.

Although the issue stemmed from the material's inherent sensitivity and extended storage, we chose to go beyond standard policy to ensure our customer's research was not disrupted. Our team responded quickly, thoroughly analyzed the situation, and provided a practical solution at minimal cost to the customer.

• We provided a free replacement CaO target.

• At the customer's request, the new target was bonded to a backing plate to improve mechanical stability and reduce the risk of cracking.

• The customer only paid for the bonding cost. 

"The replacement target with bonding would be perfect, thank you. We'll follow your advice regarding handling," replied the client upon receiving the new piece.

Best Practices & Customer Guidance

Recommendations for Users:

• Store all hygroscopic materials (like CaO) in a dry box immediately upon receipt.

• Use materials within a reasonable timeframe, ideally within days, to avoid environmental degradation.

• For fragile ceramics, consider bonding to a backing plate to add mechanical support.

SAM's Internal Upgrades:

• We enhanced packaging standards:

  • Double vacuum-sealed bags

  • PP box with desiccant inside

  • Anti-moisture and anti-shock labels

• We are compiling a sensitive materials reference list (expected to be finalized soon) and have trained our teams in alignment with the upcoming guidelines.

• Revised inspection policies to limit exposure of fragile or hygroscopic items prior to use.

Why Customers Trust Stanford Advanced Materials

This case demonstrates why leading research institutions and industrial labs worldwide trust SAM:

• We understand the complexities of advanced materials and respond with technical clarity.

• We take ownership of customer experience—even when the problem isn't caused by us.

• We constantly improve our service, packaging, and knowledge sharing.

Our commitment goes beyond delivering top-quality materials. We work side-by-side with customers to ensure those materials perform exactly as expected. If you're looking for a materials partner who combines deep expertise, reliable support, and global service, Stanford Advanced Materials is here to help.

Ready to work with a materials partner who stands behind every shipment?
Contact us today.

Also, see our sputtering target category here.