What gives you the idea of HF being mandatory by 2007? In any case,
epoxy resis are rarely halogen free, because the epoxy group is supplied
by epichlorohydrin. Granted that most of the resultant chloride in the
prepolymerisation reaction is largely removed, but there is always some
left, and this assumes a stoichiometric reaction. Most of the halides in
normal FR-4 are from TBBPA, which is not targeted by the EU directives.
Do you know of any other political entity wanting to ban TBBPA?

As for solder masks, there could be 101 (well, nearly!) chemistries
involved, and each would have to be taken on its own merits. It would be
impossible to generalise.

Brian

Edward Szpruch wrote:
> Hi all,
> Recently I have been asked about "Halogen free Solder Mask".
> As I understand, "Halogen Free" restrictions on PCB are expexted to be
> employed in summer 2007 ( ? ).
> What are the definitions of "Halogen free" ???
> I had impression,that definition is based on limit of % wt ( 0.1% ???) of
> PCB. If this is true , taking into account amount of Solder mask on PCB and
> possible % of halogens in Solder Mask formulations , it seems to me, that
> such contributions of Halogens originated in Solder Mask is neglible.
> Pls comment.
> regards to all
> Edward
>
> Edward Szpruch
> Eltek Ltd
> P.O.Box 159 ; 49101 Petah Tikva Israel
> Tel  ++972 3 9395050 , Fax  ++972 3 9309581
> e-mail   [log in to unmask]
> web site : www.eltekglobal.com
>