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Growing concern for sustainability and environmental safety has driven the trend toward using halogen-free materials in various industrial applications, particularly in the manufacturing of electronics and plastics. But what exactly does it mean for a product to be "halogen-free," and why is it critical for the future of technology and the environment?
What Are Halogens and Why Should We Avoid Them?
Halogens are chemical elements like chlorine, fluorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine, which have traditionally been used in electronics and plastics to impart properties like flame resistance, durability, and flexibility. However, these elements, although useful in some applications, are highly reactive and can release toxic gases in cases of fire or improper end-of-life handling.
For instance, chlorine and bromine, when released during a fire, can generate harmful gases like hydrogen chloride and hydrogen bromide, which pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. Additionally, these compounds can be problematic in recycling processes, increasing pollution and hindering material reuse.
What Does It Mean for a Product to Be "Halogen-Free"?
A material is considered halogen-free when it contains less than 900 parts per million (ppm) of chlorine or bromine and less than 1500 ppm of total halogens, as per international standards such as IEC 61249-2-21.
This classification is essential for ensuring that products are safer and more sustainable. Halogen-free products not only prevent the release of toxic compounds in case of fire, but they also make recycling easier and more efficient.
Benefits of Using Halogen-Free Products
Utilizing halogen-free materials offers multiple benefits for both manufacturers and consumers. Some of the key advantages include:
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Environmental safety: Halogen-free products reduce the emission of toxic gases during a fire, minimizing risks to human health and the environment.
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Improved recyclability: The absence of halogens makes recycling more straightforward and allows for better material reuse, supporting a circular economy.
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Regulatory compliance: Halogen-free products meet international standards like RoHS and REACH, which restrict hazardous substances in electronic and plastic products.
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Enhanced product quality: Halogen-free materials are often more durable and resistant, improving product reliability and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Why Are Halogen-Free Products Crucial for the Electronics Industry?
The electronics industry is one of the most affected by the use of halogens, as many of its components include materials like PVC and Teflon, which contain high levels of halogens. These materials can release hazardous compounds when burned or improperly recycled. In fact, electronic waste recycling, often done in developing countries, can emit toxic gases that impact both people and the environment.
Adopting halogen-free materials in electronics manufacturing helps mitigate these risks and enhances the sustainability of the industry by making products easier to recycle and safer for the environment.
How Can You Ensure a Product is Truly Halogen-Free?
It’s important for both manufacturers and consumers to verify that the products they purchase comply with RoHS and REACH standards, which regulate the use of hazardous substances in electronic and plastic products.
This can be achieved through specific certifications that guarantee products are halogen-free and meet safety and sustainability requirements.
How Can Solera Help You?
At Solera, we are aware how important it is to guarantee a quality product for the end user, which is why we have decided to manufacture our products using halogen-free materials, even though the current regulations do not require us to.
We are committed to the quality and safety of each of the components used in our products, and halogen-free is undoubtedly a pre-requisite in our quality standard.
You can find all the technical documentation, as well as applicable regulations and characteristics of each of our products on our website where we have developed a special section that provides the installer with all the necessary information on this and other applicable regulations.