The Science Behind Computer Recycling
Computer recycling is the process of dismantling and separating components and raw materials from waste electronics. It involves separating high-value metals from low-value materials such as plastics. Precious metals and rare earth metals play a crucial role in consumer electronic recycling technology. These metals have high market values and limited supplies, making recycling them economically viable. In 2017, approximately 2.8 million tons of consumer electronics were disposed of in the U.S., with about 36% of it being recycled. Recycling electronics is complex and faces challenges such as narrow profit margins. Key Takeaways Computer recycling involves separating valuable metals from low-value materials. Precious and rare earth metals have high market values and limited supplies, making their recycling economically viable. About 36% of consumer electronics in the U.S. were recycled in 2017. Recycling electronics is a complex process with narrow profit margin...