Overclocker Der8auer analyzed Thermal Grizzly's Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal thermal interface material over two years. He explained that copper staining results from a peritectic reaction forming CuGa2, an alloy with ~100 W/m·K thermal conductivity. This layer grows at 1 µm daily until reaching 50–100 µm.
Microscopic analysis showed crystallization within two weeks, with full solidification by month two. No further changes occurred between months two and two years, confirming stability after initial reaction. The findings suggest liquid metal TIMs remain effective long-term despite surface transformations.
Source: TechPowerUp News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing