Physicochemical Reactions in E-waste Recycling

Overview

Journal Nat Rev Chem

Publisher Springer Nature

Specialty Chemistry

Date 2024 Jun 11

PMID 38862738

Authors

Bo Niu

Shanshan E

Qingming Song

Zhenming Xu

Bing Han

Yufei Qin

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Electronic waste (e-waste) recycling is becoming a global concern owing to its immense quantity, hazardous character and the potential loss of valuable metals. The many processes involved in e-waste recycling stem from a mixture of physicochemical reactions, and understanding the principles of these reactions can lead to more efficient recycling methods. In this Review, we discuss the principles behind photochemistry, thermochemistry, mechanochemistry, electrochemistry and sonochemistry for metal recovery, polymer decomposition and pollutant elimination from e-waste. We also discuss how these processes induce or improve reaction rates, selectivity and controllability of e-waste recycling based on thermodynamics and kinetics, free radicals, chemical bond energy, electrical potential regulation and more. Lastly, key factors, limitations and suggestions for improvements of these physicochemical reactions for e-waste recycling are highlighted, wherein we also indicate possible research directions for the future.

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