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

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.