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Lead (Pb)
Definition
Lead (Pb) is the most commonly regulated restricted substance under RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU, restricted at a maximum concentration value of 0.1% (1000 ppm) by weight per homogeneous material. Lead was historically used extensively in EEE: as solder (tin-lead alloys), in glass (CRT displays, leaded glass in lamps), in stabilisers for PVC cables, in surface treatments (lead-based paints, coatings), and in batteries. RoHS restricts lead in all EEE categories across Annex I, subject to specific exemptions in Annex III (all categories) and Annex IV (medical devices and monitoring/control instruments). Delegated directives C(2025)5961 and C(2025)5939 (September 8, 2025) updated lead exemptions for steel, aluminium, copper alloys, and high-melting temperature solders.
Source
Directive 2011/65/EU, Annex II; Delegated Directives C(2025)5961 and C(2025)5939 (September 8, 2025); Annex III and IV exemptions.
Practical Explanation (Compliance Context)
Lead is the most frequently triggered restricted substance in RoHS compliance. Key sources in EEE include: solder (replaced by SAC — tin-silver-copper — alloys); PVC stabilisers (replaced by calcium-zinc stabilisers); glass components; and surface coatings. Manufacturers must screen all homogeneous materials for lead, obtain supplier declarations, and assess applicable exemptions (e.g., lead in high-temperature solders, lead in glass of cathode ray tubes). The September 2025 delegated directives clarify lead exemption conditions for alloy applications.