Infineon Technologies Utilizes Recyclable PCBs for Sustainable Electronics

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fagenwasanni.com, Jul. 28, 2023 – 

Germany's leading semiconductor manufacturer, Infineon Technologies, is showcasing its commitment to sustainability by adopting printed circuit boards (PCBs) that can be easily recycled through a simple process of immersion in hot water.

In collaboration with UK start-up, Jiva Materials, Infineon is experimenting with a biodegradable PCB known as Soluboard. This eco-friendly alternative is composed of natural fibers, various biodegradable compounds, and a halogen-free polymer. Despite its environmentally friendly composition, Soluboard performs just as effectively as other commercially available flame-retardant PCBs.

The uniqueness of Soluboard lies in its ability to break down effortlessly when immersed in warm water. As the polymer dissolves, the layers of the composite material separate, enabling the fibers to be composted while the remaining solution can be safely disposed of as wastewater. Moreover, these PCBs facilitate the recovery of up to 90% of the components attached to a board, which can subsequently be reused or recycled.

In contrast, conventional PCBs rely on glass-based fibers that pose significant challenges for recycling and impede the recovery of attached components and metals.

Andreas Kopp, Head of Product Management Discretes at Infineon's Green Industrial Power Division, lauded the implementation of recyclable and biodegradable PCBs as a groundbreaking step toward a greener future in consumer and industrial electronics.

Soluboard not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also helps mitigate carbon emissions. According to Jonathan Swanston, CEO and co-founder of Jiva Materials, replacing conventional FR-4 PCB materials with Soluboard can lead to a remarkable 60% reduction in carbon emissions. Specifically, per square meter of PCB, this shift can save approximately 10.5 kg of carbon and 620 g of plastic.

Currently, Infineon is utilizing Soluboard solely for demonstration and evaluation boards. However, the company is actively exploring the possibility of implementing this material across all their boards to promote a more sustainable electronics industry.

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