Warning: Cheap thermal paste from Korea is causing CPU damage

The SGT-4 thermal paste from Korean manufacturer Amech has gained popularity thanks to its low price – currently around $7 for 4 g on Amazon. However, German hardware analyst Igor Wallossek had already raised concerns last year on his tech platform Igor’s LAB, warning that the paste could potentially damage hardware. Recent user reports from South Korea now support his warning, showing severe corrosion on the copper surfaces of coolers and processors.

The first warning sign of the potentially harmful thermal paste is its strong, vinegar-like smell. As Wallossek revealed in a chemical analysis last year, the paste contains PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) and acetoxy-crosslinked RTV silicone – a combination that releases acetic acid as it cures. This acid can oxidize copper surfaces, potentially leading to long-term contact issues. In addition, the paste exhibited unusually high adhesive strength after application and delivered significantly lower thermal conductivity than the manufacturer claimed.

Examples of the damage can be found on the South Korean forum Quasarzone, where several users have reported corroded coolers, etched CPU labels, and in some cases even health complaints caused by evaporating acetic acid. One user examined the damage under a microscope and described “anthill-like corrosion structures” – a pattern consistent with the chemical processes Igor Wallossek had previously outlined. Coolers with untreated copper surfaces appear to be particularly vulnerable, while nickel-plated models offer greater resistance.

The manufacturer Amech responded with little transparency, merely referring to its existing RoHS and REACH compliance – statements that say nothing about the product’s actual corrosive behavior. Amech has also faced criticism for its unprofessional communication with customers. In the comments under Wallossek’s latest article, users express strong disapproval and recommend established alternatives such as Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut or Arctic MX-6 (8 g for $9).