What is the Halogen-free Printed Circuit Board?

What is the Halogen-free printed circuit board?

In general as the term implies halogen-free means the product material does not contain any compounds derived from these elements. Many persons in the electrical and electronic industry would give a definition of halogen-free similar to what the IPC organization (known as the Association Connecting Electronics Industries) provided in a recent paper, Electrical and electronic products may be considered halogen-free if they are assembled without the intentional use of these elements in the raw materials and these elements are not intentionally present in the end product.

During the development of printed circuit boards, there are many compounds and elements that are utilized for a variety of purposes. During the early days of PCB development, many toxic compounds were used as either a cost-saving aspect of manufacturing or because of the specific, helpful nature of the element. As humanity develops an increased understanding of the threats that past materials present to life in today’s world, manufacturers are changing methods and finding new materials that don’t pose a threat to individuals working with such creations.

Common compounds that are used in PCB developments belong to the family of Halogen elements. Although the composition themselves provide certain benefits to the development of electronics, they are harmful to human life in one way or another.

These elements are:

– Flourine

– Chlorine

– Bromine

– Iodine

– Astatine

While there is still debate on the toxicity of halogens within PCB development, there are two primary elements that constitute the general consensus of a halogen-free circuit board. These two are chlorine and bromine. Each provides a specific benefit to the overall safety and functionality of electronics but pose a threat to the continuity of life for humans and nature.

Halogen-Free PCB Advantages:

Halogen-Free PCB properties that are of concern to the assembler are as good or better than comparable halogenated boards. By comparing data sheets from a number of raw PCB material suppliers, it is easy to see that the halogen-free PCB generally have lower CTE. They have longer T-260 and T-288 times and a higher Td temperature. These all mean that the board will be better suited for multiple reflow processes and will be able to withstand higher reflow temperatures in PCBA.

Introduction:     

1.Halogen-Free PCB: There is increasing demand for environmentally friendly PCB electronic products. Halogenated compounds have been targeted for reduction and eventual elimination. As such, Halogen-Free PCBs are becoming more and more popular because they are constructed of materials that are free of halogen. In addition ,The dielectric constant, dissipation factor and moisture diffusivity of PCB materials that are described as Halogen-Free PCB are different from those employed in PCBs industry.