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Thermal Recovery of Functional Coatings
TReFCo addresses a significant hurdle in the recycling of modern electronics: the specialized functional coatings that often contaminate recovered metals. These coatings, frequently containing rare and expensive materials, are typically "burnt off" during traditional recycling, leading to pollution and material loss. TReFCo explores the use of near-infrared radiation to selectively break down the adhesives and binders holding these coatings in place, allowing for the clean recovery of both the coating and the underlying substrate without damage.By developing "de-bond on command" adhesives, TReFCo aims to revolutionize the way devices are designed for disassembly and repair. The project’s focus on maintaining material purity ensures that the recycled output is of a higher value, supporting a more efficient circular economy for technology metals. Through detailed lifecycle analysis, the research ensures that these new thermal recovery methods are environmentally beneficial, providing a sustainable pathway for the future of electronic waste management.
Completed
Tuesday, 01 March 2022
£1,005,537
EP/W019167/1
Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council
Co-Investigator (Co-I)

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