Photo: Jiva Materials
‘Infineon Technologies is currently testing the PCB in demo units, paving the way for a possible larger-scale implementation.’
German semiconductor manufacturer Infineon Technologies AG has recently announced its production of a groundbreaking printed circuit board (PCB) that is capable of dissolving in water. This innovative technology, sourced from UK startup Jiva Materials, has the potential to significantly reduce electronic waste, aligning with the tech industry’s efforts to meet climate goals by 2030.
The Soluboard, developed by Jiva, is a biodegradable PCB made from natural fibers and a halogen-free polymer. Compared to traditional PCBs made with fiberglass composites, Soluboard boasts a significantly lower carbon footprint. A study conducted by the University of Washington College of Engineering and Microsoft Research in 2022 utilized Soluboard PCBs to create an environmentally-friendly mouse. Findings revealed that the Soluboard dissolved in hot water within six minutes, although it took several hours to break down at room temperature.
Apart from its ability to dissolve, the Soluboard also facilitates the retrieval of valuable metals attached to the PCB. Once the board dissolves, the chips and circuit traces can be easily filtered out, enhancing the recovery process. This water-based recycling approach has the potential to increase the yields in recovering valuable metals, according to Jonathan Swanston, CEO and co-founder of Jiva Materials. The Soluboard PCBs have a 60% smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional PCBs, resulting in savings of 10.5 kg of carbon and 620 g of plastic per square meter of PCB.
Infineon has already produced three different circuit board prototypes using the Soluboard framework. Currently, the dissolvable PCBs are being used for demo and evaluation boards, with approximately 500 units already in use. However, Infineon is actively exploring the possibility of using this innovative material for all their boards, aiming to expand its adoption in the coming years. In addition, based on the results of stress tests, the company plans to provide guidance on the reuse and recycling of power semiconductors removed from Soluboards, minimizing waste from salvageable parts in future production models.
Check out the video below to witness the Soluboard in action as it dissolves in a frying pan filled with boiling water.
By introducing the Soluboard, Infineon and Jiva Materials are demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and driving positive change in the tech industry. This breakthrough technology has the potential to significantly reduce electronic waste and contribute to the industry’s efforts in meeting climate goals. With its innovative features and potential for wider adoption, the Soluboard represents a significant step forward in creating a more sustainable future for the tech industry.