What is Halogen-Free
Halogen-free refers to a printed circuit board that does not contain any halogen components, including chlorine, bromine, fluorine, iodine, and astatine. These halogen components are known to be hazardous to both human health and the environment. To meet the criteria of being halogen-free, a PCB must adhere to specific limits for chlorine and total halogen content.
According to industry standards like the JPCA-ES-01-2003, a halogen-free PCB should have a chlorine content of less than 900 parts per million (ppm) and a total halogen content (including bromine) of less than 1500 ppm. These limits are set to minimize the potential harm caused by halogen emissions during the manufacturing process or in the event of a fire.
Achieving a halogen-free status in PCBs involves using halogen-free materials, particularly in the lamination of copper-clad. The JPCA standard specifies that the bromine content should be lower than 0.09% (by weight ratio) and the chlorine content should also be lower than 0.09% (by weight ratio). Additionally, the total bromine and chlorine content should not exceed 0.15% (by weight ratio), which is equivalent to 1500 ppm.
The purpose of utilizing halogen-free materials in PCB construction is to minimize the potential risks associated with halogen emissions, which can release toxic gases and corrosive by-products. By eliminating halogen components from PCBs, the harmful impact on human health and the environment is significantly reduced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between Halogen and Halogen Free PCB
Instead of utilizing PBB and PBDE cladding, halogen-free PCBs primarily utilize phosphorus and phosphorus-nitrogen compounds. Unlike halogen, phosphorus undergoes thermal decomposition when it burns, resulting in the formation of a polyphosphoric acid. This acid then dries and solidifies on the surface, forming a carbonized film.
What Is the Purpose of Halogen Free Cable
Advantages of using halogen-free cables include the absence of toxic or corrosive gases being released in the event of a fire, which can pose a threat to both humans and buildings. Unlike PVC cables, the risk of emitting hazardous halogen-containing combustion gases is eliminated.
Why Use Halogen Free Solder
Halogen free solder has several advantages including improving the stencil life, enhancing thermal stability, widening the reflow process-window, and increasing durability. The elimination of halogens directly impacts the soldering process and other subsequent processes like assembly cleaning.
Is Halogen Free Mandatory
Halogen-free is not a requirement.
Does RoHS Mean Halogen-Free
The EU RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC, also referred to as RoHS or Lead-Free, is a regulation that sets the maximum levels of lead in different electric and electronic devices.
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