X-ray Based Robotic E-Waste Fractionation for Improved Material Recovery

Abstract Small handheld battery-powered devices contain complex material combinations. Current recycling methods achieve low recycling rates for these materials. For a more efficient recycling, fractionation of the devices according to the material composition before a mechanical shredding is helpful. However, this requires either manual disassembly or knowledge of the internal structure of the devices, which is not provided by the manufactures. Since manual disassembly is not economical, due to high labour costs, another methodology is needed. With the help of X-ray technology, the internal structure of the devices can be exposed and analysed without opening them manually. With the obtained data, a fractionation strategy can be generated to perform a robotised fractionation with a high pressure waterjet cutter, allowing higher recycling rates. Which is achieved by a reduction of the material complexity of each individual fraction, and the avoidance of inseparable material mixtures. Additionally complex fractions can be treated in specialised recycling facilities where processes are applied economically for a fraction of the device compared to the entire unit.