Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) is an acronym for Restriction of Hazardous Substances. RoHS, also known as Directive 2002/95/EC, is a European Union directive that prohibits the use of certain hazardous compounds in electrical and electronic equipment (known as EEE). RoHS compliance is required for all relevant items sold in the EU after July 1, 2006.

What are the restricted materials mandated under RoHS?

The substances banned under RoHS are lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (CrVI), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), and four different phthalates (DEHP, BBP, BBP, DIBP).

Why is RoHS compliance important?

The prohibited materials are harmful to the environment and pollute landfills, as well as being hazardous to workers during manufacture and recycling.

How are products tested for RoHS compliance?

The prohibited metals are screened and verified using portable RoHS analyzers, commonly known as X-ray fluorescence or XRF metal analyzers. With the introduction of RoHS 3 and the four new phthalates, different testing is required to determine the amounts of these solvent-extracted chemicals.