Work

PCBnCO: A Carbon Intensity Model of FR-4 Printed Circuit Boards Based on Company Data

Year: 2025

Type: conference-paper

Abstract: This paper examines available data to model the carbon intensity of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). Our aim is to provide insight into PCB design decisions and highlights the need for more robust data to enhance the accuracy of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of PCBs. A study of the literature reveals significant variations in reported results. To achieve a more accurate estimate of carbon intensity, we propose two approaches. First, we analyze the annual reports of the world’s leading PCB manufacturers to determine an overall gate-to-gate carbon intensity. Second, independently of the first, we develop a cradle-to-gate carbon intensity model based on the number of layers. Additionally, we localize the PCB production by standardizing the electricity mix.

Source: IEEE Conference on Technologies for Sustainability

DOI: 10.1109/sustech63138.2025.11025732

Authors: Pierre Le Gargasson, Maxime Pelcat, Nicolas Beuve, Muriel Pressigout, Luce Morin, Daniel Menard

Institutions: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National des Sciences Appliquées de Rennes, Institut d'Électronique et des Technologies du numéRique, Université de Rennes

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: green

Funder: Agence Nationale de la Recherche