Design and Development of Sustainable Printed Circuit Boards

Abstract This study introduces an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional FR4 substrates used in printed circuit boards (PCBs). While FR4 boards have excellent properties, their lack of sustainability considerations contributes to electronic waste buildup. The new substrate, made from poly (lactic acid) and cotton fabric, is compostable at the end of its life cycle. The manufacturing process involves compression molding, a technique commonly used in polymer industries. Silver ink can be printed onto the substrate, mimicking FR4's properties like surface morphology and wettability. For example, the compostable PCB exhibits a water contact angle of 72°, similar to FR4's 64°. Tests show that the green substrate's dielectric constant closely matches that of FR4, making it suitable for micro-drilling and component integration. A proof-of-concept circuit demonstrates its functionality, controlling LED blinking using resistors, capacitors, LEDs, and a dual in-line package circuit timer. The developed compostable PCB substrate offers a sustainable alternative to FR4, potentially reducing electronic waste in landfills.