Technological Use Histories for Solder Metals

Abstract

Legislation in Europe as well as industry and consumer pressure has caused a shift from traditional tin-lead solder to lead-free solder. In this work, we examine five metals used or contemplated for use in electronic solders: tin and lead (the traditional solder metals), copper and silver (the metals added to tin in most non-leaded solders), and bismuth (a constituent of some specialty solders). History of use, current use, and potential effects of a transition to lead-free solder are the main topics of discussion