I don’t know of any modern paste that is electrically conductive

I wasn’t trying to imply that. When I said “frying the chip” I meant through bad thermal coupling.

contrary to the old belief, you can’t use too much.

You’re the first person to suggest that, and frankly, I find that counterintuitive. Everything isolates if it’s thick enough. However I’ll also look into that someday and see if there’s something to it. Thanks again.