London - Tin prices are at record highs. Some experts say the prices may curb demand by the electronic industry, discouraging the use of the metal in emerging technology areas. Tin has become a big component in electronic products in the wake of RoHS and hit $24,600 a metric ton last week, up 45% in 2008. Electronic solders account for around 50% of global tin consumption, estimated at approximately 365,000 metric tons last year. High prices could curtail usage, as well as causing a slowdown in the transition to high tin content lead-free solders, creating problems in the electronics sector.
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