HERTFORDSHIRE, UK – Although 75% of respondents build products for markets outside the RoHS Directive scope, just 25% still use SnPb solder, according to a recent poll. And while most firms have opted for SAC alloys in soldering, no clear preference has emerged for board or IC finishes. The responses include companies exporting product to countries not covered by the RoHS Directive. The survey was conducted by Elfnet between November and February, and results compared with previous studies conducted in 2004 and 2005. SAC alloy remains the predominant choice in reflow soldering, at around 70%. SAC use has risen to 59% from 18% for wave soldering, and to 75% from 54% for hand soldering. About 12 to 13% of PWB and component finishes were SnPb, respondents said. Interestingly, companies have not standardized on a single replacement. Indeed, the number of finishes used has risen, to 10 in 2006 from seven in 2004. The report also includes limited data on regional variations with the U.S. and Japan, as well as equipment purchases and upgrades. About 80% of respondents reported ongoing implementation problems, some 15 to 18 months after the Directive went into effect. The report can be downloaded for free at www.europeanleadfree.net/pooled/articles/BF_DOCART/view.asp?Q=BF_DOCART_285702