What is RoHS?

RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) is a directive established by the European Union to restrict the use of hazardous substances. Its purpose is to prevent electronic and electrical products from containing heavy metals and chemicals that could harm human health or the environment. RoHS regulations limit the amount of substances that cannot be contained in products at standard levels, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺), polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and later-added phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP). Any product intended for sale in the EU, whether it's wire, connectors, plastic parts, or solder, must comply with RoHS content limits.

The purpose of RoHS is not only environmental protection but also related to product reliability—for example, excessive lead or cadmium can cause material embrittlement, corrosion, or processing hazards. Therefore, RoHS has become a basic requirement for the global electronics industry, and many countries have adopted similar regulations. Simply put, RoHS is an international standard that ensures materials are "safe, non-toxic, and exportable." Compliance with RoHS means that products can be legally sold in the international market and reduces environmental and health risks.