RoHSkonform

RoHSkonform is the term used to describe conformity with the RoHS directive, which restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment placed on the European market. The expression is common in German-speaking contexts and denotes that a product, component, or material meets RoHS requirements.

Scope and substances: The RoHS directive restricts six substances—lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and the flame retardants polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE). In general, these substances are limited to 0.1% by weight, with cadmium commonly limited to 0.01% in many applications. RoHS 3 expanded the scope by restricting four phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP) in numerous electrical and electronic equipment. Certain exemptions apply for specific uses where alternatives are not feasible.

Compliance process: Achieving RoHSkonform status involves ensuring that materials and components comply with the restricted substance limits. Manufacturers typically compile a bill of materials, obtain supplier declarations of conformity, and conduct testing (screening with X-ray fluorescence and select laboratory analyses such as ICP-OES/ICP-MS). An EC Declaration of Conformity is often prepared, and products marketed in the EU commonly carry the CE mark to indicate overall conformity with applicable directives, including RoHS.

Application and context: RoHSkonform applies to a wide range of electrical and electronic equipment sold or imported into the European Union. Similar regional schemes exist in other jurisdictions, such as China RoHS. Exemptions and alternative materials may apply depending on the device category and designated uses.