Electrodynamic fragmentation of electronic scrap, FHNW School of Engineering and Environment

Objectives

Development of an innovative separation method for recycling electronic scrap.

Background

Electronic devices are becoming increasingly complex and compact. As a result, electronic scrap contains a multitude of different components and recyclable materials. Electrical components (printed circuit boards, batteries, displays etc.) are often installed in a plastic enclosure. The aim of a selective separation method is to make the recycling process easier.

Result

In the case of electrodynamic fragmentation (EDF), the material to be separated is immersed in water and positioned between two electrodes; the water acts as an isolator. Applied high voltage (up to 200 kV) is discharged and generates disruptive discharges. In the process, a compression wave (high pressure) and a plasma channel (high temperature) occur. The discharges take place along the edges of the material, whereby the material can be selectively separated.

A test is carried out to determine whether the wet processing of electronic scrap by means of EDF is suitable for identifying desirable recyclable materials in a targeted way. The objective is for recyclable materials to accumulate so that it is easier to recover them. A very wide range of analytical methods are used to verify the effectiveness of EDF for certain types of material.