Environmental Regulations (RoHS, REACH)

The growing environmental awareness has led to the introduction of stringent regulations for the electronics industry, including the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs). Among these, the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive and the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation are of crucial importance to ensure safer and more sustainable production. As PCB developers, understanding and complying with these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental step towards a more responsible future.

RoHS: Restricting Hazardous Substances in PCBs

The RoHS directive, originally introduced by the European Union in 2003 (and subsequently updated), aims to restrict the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). For PCB manufacturers, this means paying close attention to the materials and processes used. The substances currently restricted by RoHS include:

• Lead (Pb)
• Mercury (Hg)
• Cadmium (Cd)
• Hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺)
• Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs)
• Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
• Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)
• Butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP)
• Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
• Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP)

What does RoHS imply for PCB production?

• Choice of Materials: It is essential to select base materials, surface finishes (such as tin, electrolytic nickel-gold), and solders that comply with the concentration limits set by RoHS. The adoption of lead-free alternatives is now a standard.
• Manufacturing Processes: Production processes must be managed to avoid contamination with restricted substances. This includes the management of chemical baths, waste, and emissions.
• Component Selection: Although not directly responsible for component production, PCB designers must ensure that the specified components are also RoHS compliant. Requesting declarations of conformity from suppliers is an essential practice.
• Documentation and Traceability: Maintaining accurate documentation of the materials used and the processes implemented is crucial to demonstrate RoHS compliance in the event of an audit or inspection.

REACH: Managing Chemicals Throughout the Supply Chain

The REACH regulation, also from the European Union, takes a broader approach, regulating the registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemical substances. Its goal is to protect human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals.

The impact of REACH on PCB production:

• Registration Obligations: Manufacturers and importers of chemical substances used in PCB manufacturing processes (e.g., cleaning agents, photoresists, inks) may be required to register them with ECHA (European Chemicals Agency).
• Communication in the Supply Chain: REACH promotes communication about chemical substances throughout the supply chain. Suppliers must inform their customers about the presence of substances of very high concern (SVHCs) in their products. PCB manufacturers must, in turn, inform their customers if their products contain SVHCs in concentrations above 0.1% by weight.
• Authorization and Restriction: Some chemical substances identified as particularly hazardous may be subject to authorization (their use requires a specific permit) or restriction (their use is prohibited or limited in certain applications). It is essential to stay updated on these lists to avoid using non-compliant substances.

How to ensure RoHS and REACH compliance in PCB production?

• In-depth Knowledge of Regulations: Keeping up to date with the latest versions and amendments of the RoHS directive and the REACH regulation is the first step.
• Collaboration with Reliable Suppliers: Choose suppliers of materials and components that guarantee compliance with regulations and provide the necessary documentation.
• Implementation of Controlled Processes: Adopt production processes that minimize or eliminate the use of hazardous substances and properly manage waste.
• Staff Training: Ensure that staff are adequately trained on RoHS and REACH requirements and the importance of compliance.
• Regular Audits and Checks: Conduct internal audits and periodic checks to verify compliance and identify any areas for improvement.
• Use of Management Software and Tools: There are software and tools that can help manage regulatory compliance, track materials, and generate the necessary documentation.

Conclusion

The RoHS and REACH regulations represent a fundamental framework for more sustainable and safer PCB production. For us, developers and manufacturers of printed circuit boards, compliance with these directives is not only a legal imperative but also an opportunity to innovate, adopt best practices, and contribute to a more environmentally friendly future. Staying informed, collaborating with the supply chain, and implementing rigorous processes are essential steps to successfully navigate this constantly evolving regulatory landscape.