EU Updates Cadmium Exemption Provisions in RoHS Directive

Key Updates:

1. Extension of Exemption 39(a):
   • Scope: Applies to cadmium selenide (CdSe) used in display lighting to reduce cadmium-based semiconductor nanocrystal quantum dots.
   • Cadmium Limit: Less than 0.2 μg/mm² on the display screen area.
   • Validity Period: Extended for all categories until November 21, 2025.
2. Introduction of Exemption 39(b):
   • Scope: Applies to cadmium in semiconductor nanocrystal quantum dots directly deposited on LED semiconductor chips used in display and projection applications.
   • Cadmium Limit: Less than 5 μg/mm² on the LED chip surface, with a maximum of 1 milligram per device.
   • Validity Period: Valid for all categories until December 31, 2027.
3. Effective Date and Member State Obligations:
   • Effective Date: The directive will take effect 20 days after its publication, i.e., on June 10, 2024.
   • Member State Obligations: Member states must implement the necessary adjustments by December 31, 2024.