What is a Halogen-Free PCB?
A Printed Circuit Board devoid of the halogen elements is called a halogen-free PCB. halogen elements are Chlorine, Bromine, fluorine, iodine, and Astatine which are very fatal to life. For a PCB to be considered “halogen-free” it must have less than 900 ppm of chlorine or bromine and a total of less than 1500 ppm of all halogen materials including (Cl and Br). The Halogen compounds are substituted by Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorous (P). This substitution reduces the molecular bond polarity in the epoxy resin, thus improving the breakdown voltage and insulation resistance of the PCB. Halogen-free PCBs are advantageous over regular PCBs because they do not release toxins or harmful byproducts when disposed of.
PCBs were historically made with halogens, like chlorine and bromine, to protect the board and its components from heat damage. Most printed circuit boards that we use today are built using FR4 and CEM3 flame retardant materials, which feature halogens. These elements are known for their flame-retardant properties. However, it was later discovered that halogen-containing PCBs are dangerous to human health and the environment. When burned, halogen-containing PCBs emit toxic gases that are harmful to the environment and have carcinogenic properties.
Benefits of Halogen Free Materials
- Enhanced Insulation: Non-halogen resins have better insulation due to stronger polarity in molecular bonds, reducing the risk of current breakdown.
- Higher Glass Transition (Tg): These boards withstand higher temperatures due to a raised Tg, making them ideal for high-power applications.
- Improved Thermal Stability: The higher molecular weight of compound materials used in halogen-free PCBs gives them a lower coefficient of expansion than regular PCBs, enhancing stability in demanding conditions.
PCB Directory has listed the leading Halogen-Free PCB fabricators and manufacturers and made them searchable through their location and capabilities. You can choose a country to filter and find local PCB manufacturers or companies nearby that can develop your printed circuit boards. Additionally, you can filter PCB suppliers based on specific capabilities such as the number of layers, material, and more. PCB Directory will then optimize the results to display manufacturers that meet your requirements.
