This company’s electronics bonding solutions can help manufacturers achieve higher Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) criteria ratings by earning optional points for enabling greater rework and more effective recycling. EPEAT is a comprehensive global environmental registry that helps consumers, manufacturers and resellers identify environmentally preferable electronics.

According to the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, approximately three to four million tons of electronic equipment is recycled every year. 3M thermal bonding films and plastic bonding adhesives can help make the process of dismantling the components more efficient when rework in manufacturing is required. In comparison to traditional dismantling processes that require the use of solvents, 3M electronics bonding solutions make rework easier, allowing manufacturers to fix damaged parts, salvage the device, reduce the amount of electronic waste and keep costs down.

“Consumers are upgrading their electronic devices at a much faster pace in the last five years, and the need for electronics recycling has increased exponentially,” said Julie Liong, 3M electronics bonding solutions business development manager. “It is part of 3M’s DNA to identify how to help customers, like electronic manufacturers, find innovative new ways to remain competitive and decrease their environmental footprint.”

3M plastic bonding adhesives can be used in the external housing to bond the touch panel to metal or plastic chassis. They are moisture-curing urethanes that are applied as liquids. Because they have sufficient open time to allow for easy assembly of parts, they can be used for touch module assembly applications. Disassembly and rework are achievable with moderate heating (~ 80oC or 176oF) and pressure.

For additional information, visit www.3M.com/electronicbonding.