PSIS – RO4000 Series Laminates
The RO4000® Series Laminates, including RO4003C™, RO4350B™, and RO4835™, are high-performance circuit materials designed for RF, microwave, and high-speed digital applications. This document outlines product details, safety information, and usage considerations.
1. Product Overview
- Material Composition:
- Glass-reinforced hydrocarbon/ceramic composite.
- Designed to offer low loss and superior performance at high frequencies.
- Variants:
- RO4003C™: Known for excellent electrical properties and ease of processing.
- RO4350B™: Features enhanced thermal stability for demanding environments.
- RO4835™: Improved oxidation resistance for long-term durability.
2. Key Features and Benefits
- Low Dielectric Constant (Dk): Stable and predictable across a wide frequency range.
- Low Loss Tangent (Df): Ensures minimal signal attenuation for high-frequency applications.
- Thermal Stability: High glass transition temperature (Tg) and low Z-axis expansion.
- Processing Compatibility: Can be processed using conventional FR-4 techniques.
- Environmental Resistance: Excellent oxidation resistance and chemical durability.
3. Applications
- RF and Microwave Circuits: Filters, couplers, antennas, and amplifiers.
- High-Speed Digital Systems: Backplanes, routers, and high-frequency interconnects.
- Automotive Radar: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
- Aerospace and Defense: Radar and communication systems.
4. Safety Information
A. General Handling
- Wear gloves to prevent contamination and avoid skin contact.
- Store in a clean, dry environment to minimize exposure to moisture and contaminants.
B. Health and Safety Hazards
- Inhalation: Dust generated during cutting or drilling may cause respiratory irritation.
- Use proper ventilation or dust extraction systems.
- Wear a dust mask or respirator (NIOSH-approved).
- Skin Contact: Prolonged exposure to dust may cause mild skin irritation.
- Wash with soap and water after handling.
- Eye Contact: Dust particles can cause mechanical irritation.
- Use protective eyewear when machining or drilling.
C. Thermal Decomposition
- Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above the recommended operating range.
- Thermal decomposition may produce harmful gases, including hydrocarbons and trace amounts of formaldehyde.
5. Fire Safety
- Flammability: RO4000 laminates are considered self-extinguishing.
- Firefighting Measures:
- Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers.
- Wear appropriate protective equipment to avoid inhalation of fumes.
6. Disposal and Recycling
- Disposal: Dispose of scrap materials and waste in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations.
- Recycling: Contact authorized recycling facilities to handle electronic waste containing RO4000 laminates.
7. Storage and Shelf Life
- Storage Conditions:
- Temperature: 23°C (73°F).
- Relative Humidity: 50%.
- Store flat to prevent warping or mechanical damage.
- Shelf Life:
- Typically unlimited when stored under recommended conditions.
8. Regulatory Compliance
- RoHS Compliance: RO4000 series laminates comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive.
- REACH Compliance: These laminates meet the requirements of the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation.