FAQs.
Technology.
Soluboard® is a fully recyclable and biodegradable alternative to market leading materials used within the PCB industry.
Soluboard® is manufactured by impregnating natural fibres with a polymer and a halogen-free flame retardant.
Jiva is in the process of ensuring that Soluboard® is compatible with aqueous PCB fabrication processes. Jiva is also engineering Soluboard® to be resistant to high humidity environments.
Jiva is in the process of comprehensively testing Soluboard® to ensure it meets the technical requirements expected in the PCB industry. Please feel free to submit a request via a Contact Form for more information.
Jiva is optimising Soluboard® so that it can be used with additive methods (conductive silver ink and copper sintering) and subtractive methods (traditional copper foil etching).
Impact.
The structure of Soluboard® and choice of polymer allows Soluboard® to delaminate when immersed into hot water. The plant-based fibres can be composted, the remaining solution of polymer can be disposed of using standard domestic waste water systems and the electronic components are then removed for recycling.
The carbon footprint of one square metre of Soluboard® PCB is estimated to be 7.1kg and the carbon footprint of one square metre of standard FR-4 PCB is estimated to be 17.7kg. This equates to a carbon footprint reduction of 60% overall
The use of natural fibres and the polymer they are impregnated with contribute significantly to the reduction in the carbon footprint of the PCB compared with the epoxy and glass fibre used in FR-4. Also, negating the need to incinerate material is accompanied by a significant reduction in carbon and other carcinogens that are typically released into the atmosphere as a result.
Jiva has developed close relationships with our suppliers of natural fibres. We have ensured that we minimise carbon emissions as much as possible through responsible sourcing.
Jiva is working closely with e-waste refiners to ensure that there is minimal impact on the existing shredding and incineration process used to recycle PCBs. Evidence also suggests that Soluboard® will be burned just as easily as FR-4 when subject to the intense heat of an e-waste refinery furnace.
Route to Market.
Jiva is optimising Soluboard® to provide our customers with a high quality product that is attractive both as a bare substrate and a copper clad laminate.
Jiva is continuing to investigate multiple electronics market segments that the recyclable properties of Soluboard® could be beneficial for. We are currently investigating single and double-sided PCB technology, so please feel free to submit a request via a Contact Form if you think there may be an opportunity to work together.
If you are interested in working with Jiva on a pilot scale then please reach out. We are always looking to trial Soluboard® with new applications.
We are always interested in hearing about new opportunities. Please submit a request via a Contact Form and we will be able to discuss the prospect further.