How can I test components for RoHS compliance?
There are various ways of testing for RoHS compliance, ranging from fairly simple methods to highly complex chemical analysis. Whichever technique is chosen it is important to ensure that it tests the ‘homogeneous material’ and not the entire component or assembly. One of the most cost-effective methods for RoHS screening is a technique known as ED-XRF (Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence). In this technique the sample is excited with an X-ray beam and the resultant emissions are collected and analysed. The emissions spectra can identify the presence and concentration of materials present.
