Circuit board recycling

From old to new Circuit board recycling

2024-05-15 From Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Michael Richter Michael Richter | Translated by AI 1 min Reading Time

Circuit boards typically consist of only very few materials: metals, glass fibers, and epoxy. Complex separation methods are required to reuse this material mix. But is the effort really worth it for a few grams of copper?

The answer is: Yes. But let's look at the process in detail to understand what it takes to turn old circuit boards back into new raw materials.

The mechanical shredding

First and foremost, the circuit board must be crushed to dissolve the bond between FR4 and metal. Modern recycling facilities like those of Stokkermill, rely on a relatively simple process of granulation and separation, which, however, ensures that as few precious metals as possible are lost. In the case of the Stokkermill plant, up to 500 kg/h can be processed here.

Separation of materials

To separate metal and plastics, electrostatic separation is used to pull the plastic from the material mix. The separated materials can then be further processed and separated.

Subsequently, the metals can be broken down into their original raw materials using precious metal separation processes.

Alternatives to FR4

As materials such as FR4 are not really environmentally friendly, it is good to avoid them directly. Biodegradable alternatives to FR4 do exist. Currently, plant-based substrates, which are surrounded by non-toxic polymers, are being tested. The advantage is not only the biodegradability, but also the significantly better CO₂ balance.

However, even these processes have their limits. The manufacture of circuit boards for the requirements of modern technologies such as 5G and high-density IC substrates requires state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. Factories are investing in new plants and processes to enable very small tracks and high functional densities. This requires constant innovation and adaptation of manufacturing techniques to keep pace with technological trends.

Environmentally friendly separation processes

Another important trend is the development of environmentally friendly recycling processes that reduce the carbon footprint. These include methods that eliminate the use of harmful chemicals and aim to minimize energy consumption and emissions.

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