Macor Glass Ceramic: A Comprehensive Overview of Its RoHS-Certified Performance

Introduction

When it comes to advanced materials that combine performance, machinability, and compliance with environmental regulations, Macor glass ceramic stands out. Recently, Macor has undergone rigorous testing by SGS, a globally recognized testing and certification body, and has been proven to meet the stringent requirements of the RoHS Directive (EU) 2015/863. This article delves into the properties, test results, and practical applications of Macor, highlighting why it is a preferred choice across multiple industries.

Understanding RoHS Compliance and Its Importance

What is the RoHS Directive?

The RoHS Directive, introduced by the European Union, restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. The 2015/863 amendment expanded the scope of restricted substances, adding phthalates like DEHP, BBP, DBP, and DIBP to the existing list of heavy metals and brominated flame retardants. Compliance with RoHS is essential for any material or product entering the European market, as it ensures environmental safety and human health protection.

SGS: A Trusted Name in Certification

SGS is renowned for its meticulous testing standards, providing globally accepted certifications. For Macor®, the tests conducted by SGS evaluated its compliance with RoHS using state-of-the-art methods such as ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy), UV-Vis (Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy), and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry).

Key Findings from the SGS Report

1. Test Parameters and Results

The SGS test evaluated the presence of hazardous substances in Macor, with results confirming compliance across all parameters. Below is a summary of the test outcomes:

Substance	RoHS Limit (mg/kg)	Macor Results	Method
Cadmium (Cd)	≤ 100	Not Detected (ND)	IEC 62321-5:2013
Lead (Pb)	≤ 1,000	ND	IEC 62321-4:2013
Mercury (Hg)	≤ 1,000	ND	IEC 62321-4:2013
Hexavalent Chromium	≤ 1,000	ND	IEC 62321-7-2:2017
Total PBBs and PBDEs	≤ 1,000	ND	IEC 62321-6:2015
Phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP)	≤ 1,000	ND	IEC 62321-8:2017

The term “Not Detected (ND)” indicates that the levels of these substances were below the method detection limit (MDL), underscoring the material’s environmental safety.

2. Significance of the Results

Macor Glass Ceramic compliance with RoHS demonstrates its suitability for environmentally sensitive applications. This certification reassures manufacturers and industries that the material is free from harmful substances, making it an excellent choice for sustainable and regulatory-compliant product designs.

The Distinctive Material Properties of Macor Glass-Ceramics

1. Exceptional Machinability

One of Macor Glass Ceramic defining features is its machinability. Unlike traditional ceramics, which require diamond tools, Macor can be machined with standard tools to achieve high precision. This reduces manufacturing complexity and costs, making it ideal for prototypes and custom components.

2.Thermal Performance

Macor Glass Ceramic operates reliably at temperatures up to 800°C for continuous use and can withstand short-term exposure to 1,000°C. Its low thermal expansion coefficient, measured at 9.3 × 10⁻⁶/K, closely matches that of metals like steel, ensuring structural integrity in high-temperature environments.

3.Electrical Insulation

Macor Glass Ceramic is an excellent electrical insulator, with a dielectric constant of 6.02 at 1 MHz and an extremely high electrical resistivity (>10⁸ Ω·cm). These properties make it a top choice for electrical and electronic applications requiring insulation and stability.

4.Chemical Resistance

Macor Glass Ceramic shows outstanding resistance to various acids, bases, and solvents, allowing it to perform exceptionally well in chemically aggressive environments. It also maintains stability under vacuum conditions, which is critical for aerospace and research applications.

Applications Across Industries

Aerospace

In aerospace engineering, Macor is used for high-temperature insulation components, structural supports, and parts exposed to vacuum conditions. Its thermal and chemical stability ensures reliability in extreme environments.

Electronics

The material’s electrical insulation properties make it ideal for circuit boards, insulating supports, and electronic housings. Its precision machinability further enhances its applicability in microelectronics and high-performance devices.

Medical Equipment

Macor is frequently used in X-ray machines, surgical tools, and other medical devices due to its biocompatibility and chemical resistance. Its ability to meet RoHS standards further solidifies its role in healthcare.

Scientific Research

In scientific research, Macor serves as a core material for laboratory equipment, particularly in applications involving high temperatures, vacuums, or corrosive environments.

Conclusion: A Material for the Future

Macor glass ceramic is more than just a high-performance material; it is a testament to innovation, sustainability, and compliance with global standards. Its unique properties, combined with the reassurance of SGS-certified RoHS compliance, make it an indispensable material for advanced applications in aerospace, electronics, healthcare, and beyond.