GRIFFITH University researchers have developed a new electronic circuit technology that is recyclable and uses less toxic materials than traditional printed circuit boards (PCBs).
A research team from Griffith’s School of Engineering and the Cooperative Research Centre for Microtechnology, led by Professor David Thiel, has developed the patented technology known as Circuits in Plastic. It is believed to be first plastic circuit of its kind in the world.
The world produces 20Mt/a to 50Mt/a of electronic waste. In Australia, three million computers became obsolete last year. Thiel said Circuits in Plastic could contribute to reducing this growing e-waste burden.
“This technology is clean and green. There is zero use of chemicals during the circuit board manufacturing process, meaning less by-products end up in landfills,” he said.
Circuits in Plastic complies with the European Union’s Reduction of Hazardous Substance laws due to come into effect on 1 July this year. Thiel said traditional PCBs, which use lead-based solders, do not comply with these new standards.
“These new laws will have many implications for electronics manufacturers, even if they are not currently marketing to EU countries. The expectation is that more countries will adopt similar legislation, strengthening the need for alternatives like Circuits in Plastic,” he said.
Thiel said a number of other technologies, including printed organic electronics, are in the race to be part of the new green electronics, but are currently in the research and development phases.
“At present, Circuits in Plastic is the only alternative circuit board technology available.”
If you involved in or know of a project that uses innovative Australian electronics, then why not enter it into the 2006 EDN Innovation Awards? For criteria and entry forms, visit www.ferret.com.au/FerretAwards/EDNAwards.asp.