FAQs.
Technology.
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).
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.
The polymer used in Soluboard® is designed only to be dissolved by water near boiling point. Jiva is in the progress of producing a version of Soluboard® that is moisture protected to allow it to be used in aqueous PCB processing.
Soluboard® is manufactured by impregnating unidirectional flax fibres with a polymer and a halogen-free flame retardant.
Soluboard® is an alternative to the market leading material used within the PCB industry: FR-4. Soluboard® is a competitively priced, fully-biodegradable material that is able to rival the outdated fibreglass and epoxy alternative.
Impact.
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.
Jiva has developed a close relationship with a supplier of flax in Northern France, the same region that the flax is grown and processed in. We have ensured that we minimise carbon emissions as much as possible through this responsible sourcing.
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.
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 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.
Route to Market.
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.
Jiva is working towards fulfilling Soluboard® orders starting Q3 of 2021. If you would like a material sample, please feel free to submit a request via a Contact Form.
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.
Jiva is optimising the supply chain and manufacture of Soluboard® to ensure that it is competitively priced per square metre both as a bare substrate and a copper clad laminate.
Jiva will start generating revenue by selling Soluboard® via a direct sales model, then outsourcing manufacture and later transitioning to a licensing model. The license of the technology will be influenced by geography and be based on the intended industry application sector; fees will be dependent on exclusivity.