Compliance with the RoHS Directive (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) is an obligation for every manufacturer, importer, and distributor of electrical and electronic equipment placing products on the European Union market. One of the most effective tools for verifying the content of hazardous substances is XRF analysis, i.e., X-ray fluorescence.
Why are these tests important?
Fast and precise detection of hazardous substances
The XRF method enables the detection of elements that are prohibited or restricted under the RoHS directive, such as:
- lead (Pb)
- mercury (Hg),
- cadmium (Cd),
- chromium (Total, in case of suspected Cr⁶⁺),
- bromine (Total – in case of suspected PBB and PBDE).
The analysis allows for quick and non-destructive determination of these elements' content, enabling immediate risk assessment and compliance with applicable limits.
Low costs and short analysis time
XRF testing is one of the most cost-effective screening methods. Samples do not require complicated preparation, and the analysis itself takes from several seconds to a few minutes. Therefore, XRF is perfect for both current production control and during the receipt of material deliveries.
Confirmation of regulatory compliance and risk reduction
Regular XRF controls help confirm that products meet RoHS requirements. This not only protects against legal sanctions and market withdrawal but also serves as evidence of due diligence, which may be required during audits, customs inspections, or legal disputes.
Supplier and material verification
XRF analysis allows for the rapid verification of materials supplied by external vendors, regardless of their declarations of conformity. This is an important tool for managing risk in the supply chain.
How is the test conducted?
- Sample preparation
The sample does not need to be destroyed – it can be an electronic component, plastic part, or wire. For complex shapes, it is recommended to flatten the surface for better measurement precision. - Placement in the XRF spectrometer
The sample is placed in the device's chamber. The operator selects the appropriate program, e.g., heavy metal analysis according to RoHS. - Measurement
The X-ray lamp excites atoms in the sample, and the detector records the characteristic radiation emitted by each element. - Reading and interpretation of results
The system displays the content of detected elements in ppm (parts per million) or percentages. The results are compared with RoHS limits.
Example XRF report (RoHS compliance)
| Element | Content (ppm) | Limit RoHS (ppm) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (Pb) | 380 | 1000 | ✅ Compliant |
| Mercury (Hg) | <5 | 1000 | ✅ Compliant |
| Cadmium (Cd) | 95 | 100 | ✅ Compliant |
| Chromium (Total) | 1150 | 1000 | ⚠️ Requires Cr⁶⁺ confirmation |
| Bromine (Total) | 280 | 1000 | ✅ Compliant |
Limitations of the XRF method
XRF analysis does not allow for distinguishing between:
- hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺) and trivalent chromium (Cr³⁺),
- polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE).
If the content of chromium or bromine exceeds permitted limits, confirmatory tests may be necessary, such as extraction or molecular spectroscopy.
However, if the results fall within the limits specified by RoHS, the product is considered compliant without the need for further analysis.
Trust the experience of RCC Sp. z o.o.
Our laboratory offers professional XRF testing for RoHS compliance:
- fast turnaround times,
- modern equipment,
- experienced specialists.
Regular XRF screening will help you ensure product compliance and avoid costly consequences of material non-compliance.
We invite you to contact us and submit an inquiry for XRF testing.
