passivation

passivation

[‚pas·ə′vā·shən]

(electronics)

Growth of an oxide layer on the surface of a semiconductor to provide electrical stability by isolating the transistor surface from electrical and chemical conditions in the environment; this reduces reverse-current leakage, increases breakdown voltage, and raises power dissipation rating.

(metallurgy)

To render passive; to reduce the reactivity of a chemically active metal surface by electrochemical polarization or by immersion in a passivating solution.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E, Copyright © 2003 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

passivation

Treatment of a metal surface which leaves a protective coating, rendering the surface less reactive chemically.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Architecture and Construction. Copyright © 2003 by McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.