Environmental Impact Assessment of Solder Considering Various Disposal Scenarios

Abstract

The directive by EU raises our attentions to toxic-free products internationally. Among these products, the interest of lead-free solder is very high, because every electric product involves bonding material. However, lead-free solder uses other depleting metals like silver, and it makes the consumption of tin increase. Promotion of the collection of wasted products may contribute to reduce environmental impacts effectively, if they make it possible to reduce the emission of lead to the environment. This study evaluated the environmental impacts of solders considering various waste scenarios and discussed to detect the most preferable way from the viewpoint of environmental impacts.