Pioneering Soluboard Technology: A Leap in Eco-Friendly Electronics with 60% Carbon Emission Reduction.
In a significant step towards an eco-conscious future, Infineon Technologies AG, in collaboration with UK start-up Jiva Materials, introduces Soluboard – a recyclable and biodegradable printed circuit board (PCB) substrate. This innovative material, crafted from natural fibres, not only significantly slashes the carbon footprint of electronic products but also addresses the escalating issue of electronic waste.
A mounting concern in today’s world is electronic waste, a detrimental environmental challenge. Infineon’s solution, the Soluboard, directly addresses this. Unlike traditional glass-based fibres, this game-changing PCB material uses natural fibres with a remarkably lower carbon footprint.
Encased in a non-toxic polymer, Soluboard dissolves effortlessly in hot water, leaving behind compostable organic remnants. The key advantage is the elimination of PCB waste, coupled with the possibility of recovering and recycling the attached electronic components.
Andreas Kopp, Head of Product Management Discretes at Infineon’s Green Industrial Power Division, declares, “This recyclable, biodegradable PCB material signifies a landmark for greener consumer and industrial electronics.” Kopp further emphasized the company’s ongoing efforts to promote a circular economy in electronics.
According to Jonathan Swanston, CEO and co-founder of Jiva Materials, transitioning to a water-based recycling mechanism can amplify the recovery of invaluable metals. Highlighting the enormous potential, Swanston added, “Substituting traditional PCBs with Soluboard cuts carbon emissions by a staggering 60%.”
Aligning with the European Commission’s “Green Deal”, Infineon explores using biodegradable materials not only for demo boards but for broader applications. The company’s commitment to the EU Directive on Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) solidifies its sustainable promise.
Infineon has rolled out three distinct demo boards leveraging Soluboard technology. Over 500 units are currently operational, including a specialised refrigerator component board. Guided by ongoing research findings, Infineon foresees augmenting the longevity of electronic components and aiding customers in sustainable designs.
This article is assisted by ChatGPT.
