Synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles from waste printed circuit boards and utilization of residual thermoset circular economy approach

Abstract

newline The mushrooming growth of electronic devices has given rise to a critical environmental concern: electronic waste, or e-waste. This expansive term encompasses a diverse array of discarded or obsolete electronic products, such as computers, laptops, mobile phones, televisions, refrigerators, and cameras. These devices, having reached the end of their useful life or fallen out of favour with their owners, often contain hazardous materials that pose significant risks to human health and the environment. Among these hazardous substances are lead, mercury, and various chemicals that, if not properly disposed of, can permeate the soil, water, and air, threatening ecosystems and public well-being. The recycling of e-waste becomes not only an environmental responsibility but also an opportunity to recover these valuable resources, thereby reducing the need for new mining endeavours and mitigating the environmental impact associated with resource recovery. The heterogeneous, complex printed circuit boards (PCBs) play a promising role in the e-waste recycling process. Comprising layers of diverse materials, including a non-conductive substrate and copper foil for conductive traces, PCBs are essential components of electronic devices. This involves a series of crucial steps, commencing with the collection and sorting of PCBs from various sources, including e-waste recycling centres and manufacturers. These collected boards are then categorized based on their type, distinguishing between single-sided, double-sided, or multi-layered PCBs. The subsequent phase involves the meticulous dismantling of electronic components from the main board. This disassembly can be executed through manual labour or automated machinery, with salvaged components earmarked for either reuse or separate recycling paths.