The green monster has struck again, as materials suppliers and PWB fabricators are working to meet OEM requirements for environmentally friendly base materials, soldermask and components. The OEM-targeted materials include the use of such chemistries as halogen (including bromine and chlorine) and halide.

Materials suppliers are now left with several questions: What particle count determines chlorine-free, bromine-free, etc.? Will the alternative materials guarantee the same reliability? What are the drivers behind this movement?

The IPC Halogen Free Materials e-mail forum ([log in to unmask]) serves a basis for peer interaction on the issue. Subscribers to the forum from all over the world can discuss the issues, dispel the myths and help each other in making the transition to these green materials a smooth ride. This forum will also be the basis for updates on a white paper being developed by the IPC Halogen-Free Materials Task Group.

To subscribe to the forum, send an e-mail:

TO: [log in to unmask] 
SUBJECT: (leave blank)
MESSAGE: Sub Halogenfree Your Name

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