NETSOLDER – Laser-based photonic soldering for net-zero electronics manufacturing

NETSOLDER is a feasibility study that evaluates laser-based photonic soldering as a transformative, low-energy interconnection technology for electronics manufacturing. Conventional soldering is energy-intensive and often unsuitable for flexible or temperature-sensitive substrates, whereas photonic soldering delivers ultra-fast, highly localized heating that can reduce soldering energy consumption by up to 90% while enabling high-quality joints on advanced materials. The purpose of NETSOLDER is not implementation, but to provide an objective, data-driven basis for decision-making by assessing technical feasibility, early reliability behaviour, sustainability benefits, and industrial integration potential. Through targeted soldering trials, initial reliability testing, and comparative sustainability analysis, the project identifies opportunities, limitations, and risks that must be addressed before scaling. NETSOLDER therefore prepares the foundation for a future implementation phase, supporting Sweden’s Net Zero Industry goals by enabling more resource-efficient, resilient, and competitive electronics manufacturing.