Lead-free component finishes - A market & technical analysis

In this edited version of a paper given at SUR/FIN(R) 2001-Nashville, a marketing perspective of the change and transition to leadfree alternatives for component finishes is presented. What drives the change? Legislation, the corporate ``environmental conscience,{''} market needs, or a combination of these factors? The authors report on the status of current, worldwide legislation, and compare and contrast the status of developments and transition dynamics to lead-free alternatives in the different regions of the world market. Opportunities and risks are also assessed and discussed, considering current market knowledge and conditions.