Investigative study on environmental impacts of electronics A scenario-based analysis

Abstract

The automotive electronics industry is rapidly evolving, revolutionizing technological ecosystems and enhancing the efficiency, quality, reliability, and productivity of transportation. This study focuses on assessing the environmental impacts of manufacturing Electronic Control Units (ECUs) for the automotive sector, with the help of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). A Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) inspired selection framework has been employed to guide in selecting the subjects for performing cradle-to-gate LCAs. Data from the International Material Data System (IMDS) is essential for performing Lifecycle Assessments (LCAs) as it provides an inventory of materials. The aim of the thesis is to develop a method for analyzing the environmental performance of ECUs. To model ECUs with varying levels of detail, precision, and workload, we have developed four modelling scenarios. We compare the newly developed scenarios with a baseline scenario that represents the current practices followed at Scania. The baseline scenario, though under-represented by not considering manufacturing stages on a component level, highlights the need for reconsideration and redesign of traditional approaches in electronics and ECU manufacturing. The results show that pursuing the highest level of detail demands substantial effort, but challenges arise when data is insufficient. The advantage of a high level of detail is to identify the environmental hotspots across the value chain. The manufacturing of printed wiring boards and integrated circuits contributes the most to emissions due to energy and process-intensive production techniques. A direct relationship has been established between the weight of printed circuit board assembly and the emissions. By presenting a range of scenarios, we contribute to the ongoing discourse on sustainable practices in the automotive electronics industry, encouraging a more holistic and environmentally conscious approach.