RM 139: Environmentally Responsible Alternatives to Traditional PCB Fabrication

Today, we delve into an increasingly critical aspect of technology and electronics manufacturing - the pursuit of environmentally responsible electronics manufacturing. Our industry has witnessed many environmental revolutions. 

The elimination of popular cleaning solvents brought on by the Montreal Protocol in 1989, soon followed by strict VOC regulations pertaining to cleaning chemicals.

The switch from lead-based solders to lead-free alloys, led by the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive, known as RoHS, implemented within the EU in 2003 and adopted nearly worldwide, regulations regarding the disposal of electronic waste (e-waste) resulting in many countries mandating regulations and programs for the safe recycling and disposal of electronic products, and more.

These regulations and others have inspired some companies to seek eco-friendly alternatives to traditional printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication. 

The combination of numerous environmental regulations has resulted in many companies’ implementation of sustainability programs.

As our world becomes more connected, the demand for electronic devices continues to rise, and with it, the importance of mitigating the environmental impact of their production.

On this episode of The Reliability Matters Podcast, Mike Konrad speaks with Mark S. Edwards. Mark wrote an article entitled “Environmentally Responsible Alternatives to Traditional PCB Fabrication.” 

He works as a strategic account manager within MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, on the global Business Development team for Circuitry Solutions. Mark has been involved in electronics manufacturing since the late 1980s and brings a passion for process automation, circuit assembly, solders/fluxes, adhesives, coatings and PCB fabrication – all with a focus on repeatability and reliability. 

Edwards holds a B.S. degree in mechanical engineering technology from Oklahoma State University and began his career at a defense electronics company in Dallas, Texas, that was later acquired by Raytheon. 

He has uncovered trends and synthesized customer needs for electronic hardware in the telecommunications, defense, automotive, industrial controls segments in the Americas, and now globally, in his newest role.

 

Chapters:

00:00:00 - The Pursuit of Environmentally Responsible Electronics Manufacturing

00:02:23 - Uncovering Trends in Electronic Hardware

00:04:56 - Circuit Board Fabrication and Environmental Responsibility

00:07:25 - The Changing Priorities of the Manufacturing Industry

00:09:40 - Green Alternatives to Traditional Circuit Boards

00:11:59 - Sustainable Alternatives to PCB Fabrication

00:14:21 - Fabrication Performance and Reliability

00:16:43 - Green PCB Fabrication Challenges and Obstacles

00:18:58 - The Challenges of Adopting Greener Solutions

00:21:22 - Environmental Sustainability in the Supply Chain

00:23:43 - Environmental Impact of PCB Fabrication Methods

00:28:20 - The Disappointment of EV 85 Fuel

00:31:07 - The Cost Implication of Going Green

00:33:31 - Recycling and the Circular Economy

00:35:55 - Recycling Circuit Boards and Extracting Precious Metals

00:38:15 - Simplifying the PCB Fabrication Process

00:40:40 - The Importance of Standards and Regulations in the Electronics Industry

00:42:54 - Demand for Environmental Responsibility in PCB Fabrication

00:45:10 - The Importance of Sustainability in the Supply Chain

00:47:20 - The Importance of Sustainability in Circuit Assembly

00:49:49 - Environmental Impact of Board Fabrication

00:52:02 - The Green Movement in Business