What is RoHS?

What is RoHS? RoHS is the acronym for Restriction of Hazardous Substances. RoHS, also known as Directive 2002/95/EC, originated in the European Union and restricts the use of specific hazardous materials found in electrical and electronic products. All applicable products in the EU market after July 1, 2006 must pass RoHS compliance.

What is RoHS and what hazardous substances are banned? The substances banned under RoHS are lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (CrVI), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), and four different phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP).

What is RoHS and how is it dangerous? The restricted materials are hazardous to the environment and pollute landfills, and are dangerous in terms of occupational exposure during manufacturing and recycling.

Any business that sells applicable electronic products, sub-assemblies or components directly to EU countries, is impacted if they utilize any of the restricted materials. Also, any business that sells to re-sellers, distributors or integrators that in turn sell products to EU countries, is impacted if they utilize any of the restricted materials.

Advanced Sensor Design is prepared and qualified to certify you as RoHS Compliant. We have the Staff and expertise to help you sell your products into the European Union.

1. Lead (Pb): < 1000 ppm – Lead is commonly used in the electrical and electronics industry in solder, lead-acid batteries, electronic components, cable sheathing and in the glass of cathode-ray tubes.
2. Mercury (Hg): < 100 ppm – Mercury is widely used metals in the production of electrical and electronic appliances and is concentrated in batteries, switches and thermostats, and fluorescent lamps.
3. Cadmium (Cd): < 100 ppm – Cadmium is used in electronic equipment, car batteries, and pigments.
4. Hexavalent Chromium (Cr VI) < 1000 ppm – While some forms of chromium are non-toxic, Chromium VI can produce toxic effects.
5. Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB): 1000 ppm – These are flame retardants found in electronic and electrical appliances. They have been found in indoor dust and air through evaporation from plastics.
6. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE): < 1000 ppm – These are also flame retardants found in electronic and electrical appliances. Combustion of printed wiring boards release toxic emissions.

1. Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP): < 1000 ppm – These are used to soften PVC and vinyl insulation on electrical wires.
2. Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP): < 1000 ppm – These are used to soften PVC and vinyl insulation on electrical wires.
3. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP): < 1000 ppm – These are used to soften PVC and vinyl insulation on electrical wires.
4. Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP): < 1000 ppm – These are used to soften PVC and vinyl insulation on electrical wires.

1. Documentation Review: Review Bill of Materials, assembly drawings, Materials Declarations for each component and product, test reports and Conformance Certificates.
2. Audit: Inspect all manufacturing processes needed to meet RoHS compliance for the six restricted substances.
3. Testing: On-site portable XRF testing is done to determine values of the six restricted RoHS substances.
4. Certification: After successful audit, a RoHS certificate is issued.

Advanced Sensor Design can assist you in becoming compliant with all the RoHS Regulations. If you have questions or need to consult with us regarding this or any related issue contact us at your convenience.