Ames Lab makes lead-free solder

The US Department of Energy’s Ames Laboratory is seeing increased interest in its patent non-toxic solder as new European Union legislation stands to impose limits on lead in electronic circuitry.

Electronic waste poses a substantial threat to the environment as lead and other chemicals leach from computers, cell phones and other electronic devices being buried in landfills. From 1 July, the EU will strictly limit the amount of lead and other hazardous materials allowed in the circuitry of any electronic appliance sold. Given the global nature of the electronics industry, the European ban is in effect international in scope. The US Department of Energy’s Ames Laboratory has developed a lead-free solder which will help meet this challenge.

The circuit board of a computer only contains a tiny amount of lead solder holding components in place and linking circuitry. However, the massive amount of electronic equipment dumped daily means the total quantity is significant.