New Research Broadens E-Cycling
Printed circuit boards, a common component of many computers and other electronic systems, have always been difficult to recycle. But a group of Chinese scientists have developed a new method that could “transform yesterday’s computer into tomorrow’s park bench,” according to the American Chemical Society.
The copper and aluminum from the circuit boards are regularly recycled, but the non-metallic remains usually end up in a landfill.
Printed circuit boards make up about three percent of electronic waste, according to researchers.
Now these nonmetallic materials are being used to make various high-strength materials. They say it is nearly as strong as reinforced concrete. It can be used to make sewer grates, park benches and fences.
Do you have an old computer to recycle? Use Earth911 to recycle your electronics.
