The Growing Challenge of PCB Recycling
As PCBs become more advanced, their recycling complexity increases. While metals can often be recovered, the resin and fiberglass materials — which account for most of a PCB’s mass — remain challenging to process using today’s recycling technologies. At STARTEAM GLOBAL, we believe innovation can help address this challenge.
FR‑4 is the industry’s most widely used PCB laminate —and one of the most challenging materials to recycle. Made from woven glass fibre and epoxy resin, FR‑4 provides the strength and reliability modern electronics rely on. However, once cured, its thermoset structure is difficult to process using current recycling technologies. As a result, while metals such as copper are commonly recovered, the non‑metallic base materials remain a key focus area for improvement across the industry.
A Recyclable Laminate Without Compromising Performance
To help address these challenges, our laminate supplier SYTECH developed Recyclad1G—a recyclable PCB laminate designed to meet UL, ISO, and IPC requirements while delivering the reliability engineers expect from traditional FR‑4 materials. STARTEAM GLOBAL supported the project with PCB testing and technical feedback.
It is compatible with existing CCL and PCB manufacturing processes, enabling adoption without redesigning boards or changing production workflows.
Recyclad1G is qualified for multilayer and HDI applications and provides stable high‑frequency performance (Dk/Df @1 GHz: 4.5 / 0.010). It is UL V‑0 rated, with strong electrical and moisture resistance, supporting reliable performance across a wide range of applications.
Designed with sustainability in mind, Recyclad1G is halogen‑free, incorporates low CFP technology, and contains 12% bio‑based carbon content, along with recycled copper.
Designed With End‑of‑Life Recovery in Mind
Recyclad1G is engineered with its full lifecycle in mind. At end- of-life, PCBs using Recyclad1G can be identified during teardown. Copper can be recovered through established recycling streams, while the non‑metal fraction can be separated and further processed.
By supporting recovery of both metal and non‑metal materials, Recyclad1G helps enable a more circular PCB supply chain, balancing performance, manufacturability, and sustainability—without introducing complexity for customers.
Discover how Recyclad1G can support your next PCB design.
Contact sales@starteam.global to discuss applications and requirements.
