Toxic Metals used in plastics as pigments, stabilizers, flame retardants and fillers are the focus of new EU regulations that have worldwide ramifications. The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive designates maximum allowable levels of Pb, Cd, Cr 6+ , Hg and certain Br-containing flame retardants (PBB and PBDE) in new electrical and electronic equipment sold into the EU. The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive requires separate collection and recycling in the EU of WEEE with Hg-containing components and plastics containing Br-flame retardant, as well as batteries and toner materials. Although other countries do not have the same specific directives, they are following suit. All electrical and electronic equipment manufactures and distributors who want to do business internationally will be required to comply with these EU Directives.  

Innov-X Portable Tube-based XRF Metal Analyzers provide fast, confident and non-destructive screening of electronic parts, components and assembled products. Tube-based Portable XRF Analyzers monitor toxic metals at ppm levels for compliance verification, on-site QC, and documented traceability. They quantify Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr 6+ and other regulated and non-regulated heavy metals and identify PVC, Br- or Sb- or P-based flame retardants in seconds. The Innov-X Tube-based XRF Metal Analyzer provides rapid, quantitative analysis of lead in solder for Pb-free electronics requirements, and fast sorting of chlorinated and/or brominated plastics.  

Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive 

Pb-Free Electronics: Alternate Metal (Sn-Whiskers) & Alloy Problems