Abstract
This study delves into the pressing global issue of electronic waste (e-waste), with a specific emphasis on printed circuit boards (PCBs). PCBs, being a crucial component of electronic devices, contribute significantly to e-waste due to their intricate composition of hazardous substances and valuable metals such as gold, silver, and copper. The research explores the concept of the circular economy—an economic system aimed at eliminating waste through the continual use of resources—and its potential application in recycling PCBs. This involves a detailed investigation of the challenges and opportunities associated with various extraction methods and waste management strategies. The study also presents a case study on The Royal Mint’s innovative approach to gold extraction from PCBs. This practical example offers valuable insights into the application of circular economy principles in the context of PCB recycling, demonstrating how these principles can lead to improved resource efficiency, waste reduction, and economic benefits. The findings of this research underscore the need for further development and implementation of sustainable practices in e-waste management to mitigate environmental impact and capitalise on the economic potential of valuable materials in e-waste.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2023 |
| Subtitle of host publication | Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing KES-SDM 2023 |
| Editors | Steffen G. Scholz, Robert J. Howlett, Rossi Setchi |
| Publisher | Springer Nature |
| Pages | 275-285 |
| Number of pages | 11 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9789819981595 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9789819981588 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Mar 2024 |
| Externally published | Yes |
| Event | 10th International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing - Sustainability in Energy and Buildings, SEB-23., Bari, Italy Duration: 18 Sept 2023 → 20 Sept 2023 http://sdm-23.kesinternational.org/ |
Publication series
| Name | Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies |
|---|---|
| Publisher | Springer |
| Volume | 377 |
| ISSN (Print) | 2190-3018 |
| ISSN (Electronic) | 2190-3026 |
Conference
| Conference | 10th International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing |
|---|---|
| Abbreviated title | SDM-2023 |
| Country/Territory | Italy |
| City | Bari |
| Period | 18/09/23 → 20/09/23 |
| Internet address |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024.
The final publication is available at Springer via http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-8159-5_24
Copyright © and Moral Rights are retained by the author(s) and/ or other copyright owners. A copy can be downloaded for personal non-commercial research or study, without prior permission or charge. This item cannot be reproduced or quoted extensively from without first obtaining permission in writing from the copyright holder(s). The content must not be changed in any way or sold commercially in any format or medium without the formal permission of the copyright holders.
This document is the author’s post-print version, incorporating any revisions agreed during the peer-review process. Some differences between the published version and this version may remain and you are advised to consult the published version if you wish to cite from it.
Funding
The authors would like to thank TransFIRe (EP/V054627/1) for funding the project. Additionally, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to The Royal Mint for their invaluable collaboration, providing us with the opportunity to visit their facilities, and for their patient and insightful explanations of the gold recovery process.
| Funders | Funder number |
|---|---|
| Transforming Foundation Industries Research and Innovation hub | EP/V054627/1 |
Keywords
- Circular economy
- E-waste management
- PCB recycling
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Computer Science
- General Decision Sciences
