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Ongoing project

Development of a Low-Cost, Safe and Circular PCB Fabrication Facility Using Chemical-Etching Methods

Summary

This project will transform the existing PCB proof-of-concept into a safe, repeatable and affordable PCB fabrication capability for student projects, research prototypes and selected low-volume applications. It will optimise PCB layout, chemical etching, drilling, soldering, testing, chemical safety, etchant reuse and copper recovery. Impact: Builds local electronics-manufacturing capacity within FAST, reduces dependence on imported prototype PCBs, supports hands-on engineering education and enables rapid fabrication of research prototypes while incorporating safer and more environmentally responsible processing.

Project team

Principal Investigator

Mackenzie Tuhirirwe

Researcher

Zaina Kalyankolo

Research connections

Focus, impact, and collaboration