What is RoHS Testing

Restricted of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Testing is a process conducted to ensure compliance with regulations that restrict the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products.

The RoHS directive, originating in the European Union (EU), aims to minimize the environmental impact of electronic waste (e-waste) and enhance consumer safety by limiting the presence of specific hazardous substances in products.

The Importance of RoHS Testing

Since January 2013, electronic products bearing the CE Mark must adhere to RoHS limits, as stipulated by the RoHS2 Directive, 2011/65/EU. This directive restricts the usage of Lead (Pb) and other potentially harmful substances, such as Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), Chromium VI (Cr VI), PBBs, and PBDEs in Electrical and Electronic products, and are limited to 0.1% or 1,000 ppm (except for cadmium, which is limited to 0.01% or 100 ppm) by weight of homogeneous material.

RoHS testing is essential because it helps to:

• Verify regulatory compliance before products are placed on the market.
• Prevent hazardous materials from entering the production line and end-user environment.
• Ensure product safety for consumers and users.
• Demonstrate environmental responsibility to meet sustainability expectations from clients and regulators.
• Maintain global market access, especially within the EU and countries adopting similar RoHS standards.

Failure to comply with RoHS requirements can lead to sales bans, costly recalls, and reputational damage, which may impact both profitability and customer trust.

MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS THAT REQUIRE ROHS TESTING

RoHS testing applies to a wide range of materials and components used in electrical and electronic products to ensure they are free from restricted hazardous substances.

• Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs): Often contain solder and metal traces that may include lead or other restricted elements.
• Cables and Connectors: Their insulation, coatings, and metal contacts can contain plasticizers or heavy metals that need to be checked.
• Metal Parts and Coatings: Screws, casings, and plated surfaces are tested to ensure they don’t contain lead, cadmium, or hexavalent chromium.
• Plastic Housings and Components: Tested for brominated flame retardants such as PBBs and PBDEs, which are commonly used in plastics.
• Paints, Inks, and Surface Finishes: Analyzed to detect any heavy metal pigments or coatings that may exceed RoHS limits.
• Solders and Alloys: Checked for lead and other restricted metals often used in bonding or assembly processes.
• Sub-Assemblies and Finished Products: Final testing confirms that the entire product, not just individual parts, meets RoHS standards before entering the market.

ROHS TESTING IN BIOCHEM

BIOCHEM specializes in ensuring compliance with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) specifications for manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers of electrical and electronic products. In our laboratory, we offer comprehensive analytical testing services to ensure your products meet the stringent RoHS requirements, safeguarding both regulatory compliance and consumer safety.