Life cycle assessment of a domestic induction hob: electronic boards

Abstract

This study analyzes the environmental performance of the electronic boards used in the current generation of induction hob designed and assembled in Spain. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has been performed, defining the functional unit as the electronic boards used in an induction cooktop with 4 hobs and 7.2 kW of nominal power. The electronic boards are two power electronic boards (ELIN PCBAs -Printed Circuit Board Assembly-), and one touch control electronic board (Touch Control PCBA). Each one has been thoroughly analyzed having into account every electronic component. The software used to create the LCA model was SimaPro 7.3.3, using two databases Ecoinvent v2.2 and Chalmers CPM LCA Database. The most relevant environmental impact in every category is caused by the two ELIN PCBAs. Touch Control PCBA has significant impact in Ozone Layer Depletion, although its value is four times lower than the emissions of one ELIN PCBA. Both ELIN PCBAs show similar environmental impact distribution. Components create between 70 and 85% of the total impact in most categories. Touch Control PCBA has a different environmental impact distribution from both ELIN PCBA. This analysis of the environmental impact of the ELIN PCBAs and the Touch Control PCBA used in an induction hob has revealed that there are several clear areas for improvement, such as reducing the environmental impact of the components and improving its end-of-life treatment.