Environmentally friendly PCBs

Griffith University researchers have developed an electronic circuit technology that claims to have significant cost, efficiency and environmental advantages over existing printed circuit boards (PCBs).

The patented technology known as Circuits in Plastic, was developed by a team of researchers led by Professor David Thiel.

Circuits in Plastic comply with stringent European laws due to come into effect July 2006. The Restriction of Hazardous Substances and Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment govern the use of hazardous materials and disposal of electronic waste. Traditional PCBs, which use lead-based solders, do not comply with these new standards.

"These new laws will have many implications on electronics manufacturers, even if they are not currently marketing to EU countries. The expectation is that more countries will adopt similar legislation, strengthening the need for alternatives like Circuits in Plastic," Thiel said. "Circuits in Plastic is the only alternative circuit board technology currently available."

Conductive tracks are screen printed directly onto a polycarbonate board containing the components, resulting in a simplified fabrication and packaging process.

"This technology is clean and green. There is minimal use of wet chemicals during the circuit board manufacturing process, and less by-product ends up in landfills," Thiel said.

For further information visit Griffith University