Service Overview
Halogen-Free (HF) Testing
Halogen control requirements originated in the PCB industry and have gradually expanded to cover a wide range of products and materials. While halogen restrictions are not yet mandated by national law, they are commonly enforced across buyer-driven supply chains, particularly by international brands and industry associations.
Different industry standards and corporate specifications may impose varying halogen requirements. In most cases, whether halogens need to be restricted depends on the specific material, component, or final product, as outlined in buyer or company standards. "Halogen-Free" (HF), also referred to as "Low Smoke Halogen Free," does not mean a product contains absolutely no halogen compounds. In the electronics and electrical sector, a product is typically considered halogen-free if no intentional halogen-based compounds are added during production and if halogen content in the final product meets the threshold requirements.
Different industry standards and corporate specifications may impose varying halogen requirements. In most cases, whether halogens need to be restricted depends on the specific material, component, or final product, as outlined in buyer or company standards. "Halogen-Free" (HF), also referred to as "Low Smoke Halogen Free," does not mean a product contains absolutely no halogen compounds. In the electronics and electrical sector, a product is typically considered halogen-free if no intentional halogen-based compounds are added during production and if halogen content in the final product meets the threshold requirements.
ECQA Halogen-Free Testing
The commonly referenced standard is IEC 61249-2-21, which outlines requirements for halogen-free flame-retardant laminate materials. According to this standard:
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Bromine (Br) must not exceed 900 ppm -
Chlorine (Cl) must not exceed 900 ppm -
Total halogen content (Br + Cl) must not exceed 1500 ppm
| Use | Typical Compounds | Common Materials |
|---|---|---|
| Flame Retardants | PBB, PBDE, HBCDD, TBBP-A | Plastic casings, PCBs |
| Solvents, Cleaning Agents, Refrigerants | CCl₄, C₂H₄Cl₂ | Cleaning fluids, refrigerants |
| Pigments | GP7 (Phthalocyanine Green), etc. | Paints, inks, pigments |
| Flux Agents | Aniline hydrochloride, hydrazine hydrochloride | Solder paste, solder wire |
| Polymers | PVC, Neoprene rubber | Plastics, polymeric materials |
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Protect your brand reputation and ensure your products comply with halogen-free regulations through ECQA’s professional inspection and testing services. From material restrictions to compliance verification, we guide you through complex international standards efficiently. Contact us today to arrange your halogen-free testing and protect your market presence.
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