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Zhong Y, Hu S, Xu J, Chen Z, Wang S. Sustainable upcycling of copper from waste printed circuit boards with the assistance of tannic acid and Fe 3+ to a magnetic heterogeneous catalyst. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 370:122391. [PMID: 39244929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
The recovery and upcycling of metals from electronic waste into functional materials for wastewater treatment is a win-win strategy for simultaneously realizing electronic waste recycling and wastewater purification. This study focused on converting Cu from waste printed boards (PCBs), a common Cu-rich electronic waste, into CuFe2O4 supported on a mesoporous carbon framework (PCFT) with the assistance of Fe3+ and tannic acid (TA). Compared to the PCF prepared without TA, the resulting PCFT exhibited excellent magnetic properties, high crystallinity, lower interfacial transfer resistance, more abundant oxygen vacancies (OV), and lower metal leaching. Moreover, PCFT can serve as a superior heterogeneous catalyst to activate peroxymonosulfate to remove reactive brilliant blue KN-R from wastewater, and its catalytic activity was markedly higher than that of CFT synthesized with Cu(NO3)2·3H2O, which may be due to its higher specific surface area and more abundant OV. The combined results of scavenging experiments, electron paramagnetic resonance analysis, and electrochemical measurements implied that both radical and nonradical processes promoted the elimination of KN-R; however, •OH and SO4•- were not the major contributors. Furthermore, the PCFT exhibited high adaptability to pH and water matrices, confirming its practical application potential. These findings provide a novel strategy for the upcycling of metals from electronic waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Zhong
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Quanzhou Normal University, 398 Donghai Road, Quanzhou, 362000, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Low-carbon Pollution Prevention and Digital Technology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; SCNU (NAN'AN) Green and Low-carbon Innovation Center, Nan'an SCNU Institute of Green and Low-carbon Research, Quanzhou, 362300, China
| | - Sisi Hu
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Quanzhou Normal University, 398 Donghai Road, Quanzhou, 362000, China
| | - Jinghua Xu
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Quanzhou Normal University, 398 Donghai Road, Quanzhou, 362000, China
| | - Zhenguo Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Low-carbon Pollution Prevention and Digital Technology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; SCNU (NAN'AN) Green and Low-carbon Innovation Center, Nan'an SCNU Institute of Green and Low-carbon Research, Quanzhou, 362300, China
| | - Shuhua Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Science, Quanzhou Normal University, 398 Donghai Road, Quanzhou, 362000, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Low-carbon Pollution Prevention and Digital Technology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; SCNU (NAN'AN) Green and Low-carbon Innovation Center, Nan'an SCNU Institute of Green and Low-carbon Research, Quanzhou, 362300, China.
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2
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Anil A, Bhagya TC, Bijimol BI, Sasidharan S, Meera MS, Shibli SMA. Architectural Decoration of Bioleached NiFeP Surfaces by Co 3O 4 Flowers for Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Generation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:42176-42188. [PMID: 39087237 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c07039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
In the quest for sustainable hydrogen production via water electrolysis, the development of high-performance, noble-metal-free catalytic systems is highly desired. Herein, we proposed an innovative strategy for the development of an electrocatalyst by refining the surface characteristics of a NiFeP alloy through microbiological techniques and subsequent enrichment of active sites by tailoring 3D hierarchical flower-like structures with intact and interconnected two-dimensional (2D) Co3O4. The resultant 3D Co3O4@NiFeP-5/24h has a porous structure comprised of intercrossed nanoparticles covering the entirety of the catalytic surface. This design ensures comprehensive electrolyte ion penetration and facilitates the release of gas bubbles while reducing bubble adhesion rates. Remarkably, the Co3O4@NiFeP-5/24h electrode demonstrates superior hydrogen evolution (HER) performance in an alkaline medium, characterized by its high stability, low overpotential (106 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm-2), and reduced Tafel slope (98 mV dec-1). Besides, the minimized interfacial contact resistance among the phases of electrode and electrolyte emphasizes the high HER performance of the 3D Co3O4@NiFeP-5/24h electrode. The innovative design and fabrication strategy employed herein holds significant potential for advancing the field of water-splitting electrocatalysis, offering a promising path toward the rational design and development of noble-metal-free electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaswara Anil
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581, India
| | | | - Babu Indira Bijimol
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581, India
| | - Sarika Sasidharan
- Centre for Renewable Energy and Materials, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581, India
| | | | - Sheik Muhammadhu Aboobakar Shibli
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581, India
- Centre for Renewable Energy and Materials, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus, Thiruvananthapuram 695 581, India
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3
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Niu B, E S, Song Q, Xu Z, Han B, Qin Y. Physicochemical reactions in e-waste recycling. Nat Rev Chem 2024; 8:569-586. [PMID: 38862738 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-024-00616-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
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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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Niu
- Key Laboratory of Farmland Ecological Environment of Hebei Province, College of Resources and Environmental Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China.
| | - Shanshan E
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Qingming Song
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhenming Xu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Han
- School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- School of Engineering, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Yufei Qin
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Jiangxi Green Recycling Co., Ltd, Fengcheng, China
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4
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Pan Y, Yu R, Jiang Y, Zhong H, Yuan Q, Lee CKW, Yang R, Chen S, Chen Y, Poon WY, Li MG. Heterogeneous Cu xO Nano-Skeletons from Waste Electronics for Enhanced Glucose Detection. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2024; 16:249. [PMID: 39023649 PMCID: PMC11258110 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01467-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) and diabetes are global challenges to modern societies. However, solving these two challenges together has been challenging until now. Herein, we propose a laser-induced transfer method to fabricate portable glucose sensors by recycling copper from e-waste. We bring up a laser-induced full-automatic fabrication method for synthesizing continuous heterogeneous CuxO (h-CuxO) nano-skeletons electrode for glucose sensing, offering rapid (< 1 min), clean, air-compatible, and continuous fabrication, applicable to a wide range of Cu-containing substrates. Leveraging this approach, h-CuxO nano-skeletons, with an inner core predominantly composed of Cu2O with lower oxygen content, juxtaposed with an outer layer rich in amorphous CuxO (a-CuxO) with higher oxygen content, are derived from discarded printed circuit boards. When employed in glucose detection, the h-CuxO nano-skeletons undergo a structural evolution process, transitioning into rigid Cu2O@CuO nano-skeletons prompted by electrochemical activation. This transformation yields exceptional glucose-sensing performance (sensitivity: 9.893 mA mM-1 cm-2; detection limit: 0.34 μM), outperforming most previously reported glucose sensors. Density functional theory analysis elucidates that the heterogeneous structure facilitates gluconolactone desorption. This glucose detection device has also been downsized to optimize its scalability and portability for convenient integration into people's everyday lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yexin Pan
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruohan Yu
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
- The Sanya Science and Education Innovation Park of Wuhan University of Technology, Sanya, 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yalong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of New Textile Materials and Advanced Processing Technologies, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan, 430200, People's Republic of China
| | - Haosong Zhong
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaoyaxiao Yuan
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Connie Kong Wai Lee
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongliang Yang
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Chen
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Wing Yan Poon
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Mitch Guijun Li
- Center on Smart Manufacturing, Division of Integrative Systems and Design, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, People's Republic of China.
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Shahraki H, Einollahipeer F, Abyar H, Erfani M. Assessing the environmental impacts of copper cathode production based on life cycle assessment. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024; 20:1180-1190. [PMID: 37888492 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The demand for copper is growing considerably in parallel with economic and technological development. The rate increase in copper consumption in Iran increases pressure on the numerous unexploited mines in southeast Iran and causes the environmental crisis alongside the northern Levar wind in this area. Given this, this study systematically explored the environmental impacts of a one-ton copper cathode processing operation from a cradle-to-gate perspective, using life cycle assessment (LCA). Moreover, the release of greenhouse gases and the energy consumption during the copper cathode production were also assessed. The results indicated that sulfuric acid use in the smelting and extraction stages, metal leaching from tailings, and CO2 dominated more than 50% of contributions to freshwater and marine ecotoxicity, human toxicity, and global warming. The energy analysis revealed 88.92% of crude oil use especially for the electrowinning stage, which should be promoted technologically. For global warming, the indirect CO2 emission from electricity consumption using fossil fuels was the main contributor (94.56%). Therefore, shifting from conventional energy systems to renewable energy systems could alleviate the overall environmental impact. For a 0.57-ton sulfuric acid effluent per one ton of copper cathode production, its treatment and reuse in the process is recommended. Summing up, the results of this study provide the environmental hot spots for copper cathode production for further investigation. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1180-1190. © 2023 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Shahraki
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Einollahipeer
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran
| | - Hajar Abyar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Malihe Erfani
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Zabol, Zabol, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran
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6
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Vuppaladadiyam SSV, Thomas BS, Kundu C, Vuppaladadiyam AK, Duan H, Bhattacharya S. Can e-waste recycling provide a solution to the scarcity of rare earth metals? An overview of e-waste recycling methods. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171453. [PMID: 38453089 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Recycling e-waste is seen as a sustainable alternative to compensate for the limited natural rare earth elements (REEs) resources and the difficulty of accessing these resources. Recycling facilitates the recovery of valuable products and minimizes emissions during their transportation. Numerous studies have been reported on e-waste recycling using various techniques, including thermo-, hydro- and biometallurgical approaches. However, each approach still has technical, economic, social, or environmental limitations. This review highlights the potential of recycling e-waste, including outlining the current unutilized potential of REE recycling from different e-waste components. An in-depth analysis of e-waste generation on a global scale and Australian scenario, along with various hazardous impacts on ecosystem and human health, is reported. In addition, a comprehensive summary of various metal recovery processes and their merits and demerits is also presented. Lifecycle analysis for recovering REEs from e-waste indicate a positive environmental impact when compared to REEs produced from virgin sources. In addition, recovering REEs form secondary sources eliminated ca. 1.5 times radioactive waste, as seen in production from primary sources scenario. The review outcome demonstrates the increasing potential of REE recycling to overcome critical challenges, including issues over supply security and localized dependency.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bennet Sam Thomas
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Australia
| | - Chandan Kundu
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Australia
| | | | - Huabo Duan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Sankar Bhattacharya
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Australia.
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7
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Islam MK, Khatun MS, Mourshed M. An in-depth analysis and review of management strategies for E-waste in the south Asian region: A way forward towards waste to energy conversion and sustainability. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28707. [PMID: 38596113 PMCID: PMC11002055 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The soaring rise of electronic and electrical waste (E-waste) leads to significant challenges to the South Asian region, urging for incorporating comprehensive assessment and management strategies. The research dives into the intricacies of E-waste and examines how regulatory barriers, public ignorance, and the limited lifespan of electronic devices all contribute to the significant production of E-waste. This study emphasizes the vital need for ongoing and appropriate management practices by bringing attention to the short lifespan of electronic devices and the resulting generation of E-waste. This work also addresses the increased risks that people who live close to informal recycling sites for electronic waste face, as well as the dangerous substances that are found in them and how they harm the environment and human health. Furthermore, in order to promote circular economies and increase productivity, the study assesses management practices in both developed and developing nations, placing special emphasis on component reuse and recycling. Along with addressing the grave consequences of the illicit E-waste trade on the environment, particularly in developing nations, this review attempts to enlighten stakeholders and policymakers about the vital need for coordinated efforts to address the issues related to E-waste in the South Asian region by offering insights into E-waste assessment and management techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Kaviul Islam
- School of Science and Engineering, Canadian University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Union Drive, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Mst. Sharifa Khatun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Union Drive, Ames, IA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Monjur Mourshed
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
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8
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Valizadeh B, Abdoli MA, Dobaradaran S, Mahmoudkhani R, Asl YA. Risk control of heavy metal in waste incinerator ash by available solidification scenarios in cement production based on waste flow analysis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6252. [PMID: 38491026 PMCID: PMC10943089 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56551-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Incineration is a common method in municipal solid waste management, which has several advantages such as reducing the volume of waste, but with concerns about exhaust gas and ash management. In this study, heavy metals in bottom ash, secondary furnace ash and fly ash of two waste incinerators in Tehran and Nowshahr were analyzed and its control in cement production was investigated. For this purpose, twelve monthly samples of three types of incinerator ash were analyzed. By combining the studied ashes in the raw materials, the quantity of metals in the cement was analyzed. Finally, by investigating four scenarios based on quantitative variations in the routes of municipal solid waste, ash quantity and the related risk caused by its heavy metals were studied. The results showed that the concentration of heavy metals in the three ash samples of the studied incinerators was 19,513-23,972 µg/g and the composition of the metals included Hg (less than 0.01%), Pb (2.93%), Cd (0.59%), Cu (21.51%), Zn (58.7%), As (less than 0.01%), Cr (15.88%), and Ni (0.91%). The best quality of produced cement included 20% ash and 10% zeolite, which was the basis of the next calculations. It was estimated that the reduction of the release of metals into the environment includes 37 gr/day in best scenario equal to 10.6 tons/year. Ash solidification can be considered as a complementary solution in waste incinerator management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behzad Valizadeh
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Abdoli
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Rouhalla Mahmoudkhani
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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Liu K, Wang M, Zhang Q, Dutta S, Zheng T, Valix M, Tsang DCW. Negative-carbon recycling of copper from waste as secondary resources using deep eutectic solvents. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133258. [PMID: 38113734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Copper plays a crucial role in the low-carbon transformation of global communities with prevalent use of electric vehicles. This study proposed an environmentally friendly approach that utilizes a deep eutectic solvent (DES), choline chloride-ethylene glycol (ChCl-EG), as green solvent for the selective extraction of copper from scrap materials. With hydrogen peroxide as an oxidizing agent, the copper species from the printed circuit boards (PCBs) scraps were efficiently leached by the DES through oxidation-complexation reactions (conditions: 25 min, 20 °C, and 5 wt% H2O2). Molecular dynamics and density functional theory were performed to simulate the intricate cascade of interactions between copper species and hydrogen bond donors/acceptors of DES, providing insights into the mechanistic processes involved. Copper was selectively recovered from the DES leachate containing impurities (e.g., Pb2+, Sn2+, and Al3+) through electrodeposition via a diffusion-controlled reaction under a constant potential mode. A comprehensive life cycle assessment of the process demonstrated that the utilisation of DES in the extraction of copper from waste PCBs could result in significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions (-93.6 kg CO2 eq of 1000 kg waste PCBs), thus mitigating the carbon footprint of global copper use through the proposed solvometallurgical recycling process of secondary resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Liu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiaozhi Zhang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, 117576, Singapore
| | - Shanta Dutta
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tianle Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Marjorie Valix
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Daniel C W Tsang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China; State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
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Yang W, Lee H, Park YK, Lee J. Recovery of non-metallic useable materials from e-waste. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141435. [PMID: 38346511 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Tremendous amounts of electric and electronic wastes (e-waste) are generated daily, and their indiscriminate disposal may cause serious environmental pollution. The recovery of non-metallic materials from e-waste is a strategy to not only reduce the volume of e-waste but also avoid pollutant emissions produced by indiscriminate disposal of e-waste. Pyrolysis, sub/supercritical water treatment, chemical dissolution, and physical treatment (e.g., ball milling, flotation, and electrostatic separation) are available methods to recover useable non-metallic materials (e.g., resins, fibers, and various kinds of polymers) from e-waste. The e-waste-derived materials can be used to manufacture a large variety of industrial and consumer products. In this regard, this work attempts to compile relevant knowledge on the technologies that derive utilizable materials from different classes of e-waste. Moreover, this work highlights the potential of the e-waste-derived materials for various applications. Current challenges and perspectives on e-waste upcycling to useable materials are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooyoung Yang
- Department of Global Smart City, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Heesue Lee
- Department of Global Smart City, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Kwon Park
- School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul, 02504, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jechan Lee
- Department of Global Smart City, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea; School of Civil, Architectural Engineering, and Landscape Architecture, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
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11
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He Y, Kiehbadroudinezhad M, Hosseinzadeh-Bandbafha H, Gupta VK, Peng W, Lam SS, Tabatabaei M, Aghbashlo M. Driving sustainable circular economy in electronics: A comprehensive review on environmental life cycle assessment of e-waste recycling. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 342:123081. [PMID: 38072018 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
E-waste, encompassing discarded materials from outdated electronic equipment, often ends up intermixed with municipal solid waste, leading to improper disposal through burial and incineration. This improper handling releases hazardous substances into water, soil, and air, posing significant risks to ecosystems and human health, ultimately entering the food chain and water supply. Formal e-waste recycling, guided by circular economy models and zero-discharge principles, offers potential solutions to this critical challenge. However, implementing a circular economy for e-waste management due to chemical and energy consumption may cause environmental impacts. Consequently, advanced sustainability assessment tools, such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), have been applied to investigate e-waste management strategies. While LCA is a standardized methodology, researchers have employed various routes for environmental assessment of different e-waste management methods. However, to the authors' knowledge, there lacks a comprehensive study focusing on LCA studies to discern the opportunities and limitations of this method in formal e-waste management strategies. Hence, this review aims to survey the existing literature on the LCA of e-waste management under a circular economy, shedding light on the current state of research, identifying research gaps, and proposing future research directions. It first explains various methods of managing e-waste in the circular economy. This review then evaluates and scrutinizes the LCA approach in implementing the circular bioeconomy for e-waste management. Finally, it proposes frameworks and procedures to enhance the applicability of the LCA method to future e-waste management research. The literature on the LCA of e-waste management reveals a wide variation in implementing LCA in formal e-waste management, resulting in diverse results and findings in this field. This paper underscores that LCA can pinpoint the environmental hotspots for various pathways of formal e-waste recycling, particularly focusing on metals. It can help address these concerns and achieve greater sustainability in e-waste recycling, especially in pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical pathways. The recovery of high-value metals is more environmentally justified compared to other metals. However, biometallurgical pathways remain limited in terms of environmental studies. Despite the potential for recycling e-waste into plastic or glass, there is a dearth of robust background in LCA studies within this sector. This review concludes that LCA can offer valuable insights for decision-making and policy processes on e-waste management, promoting environmentally sound e-waste recycling practices. However, the accuracy of LCA results in e-waste recycling, owing to data requirements, subjectivity, impact category weighting, and other factors, remains debatable, emphasizing the need for more uncertainty analysis in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng He
- Henan Province International Collaboration Lab of Forest Resources Utilization, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | | | | | - Vijai Kumar Gupta
- Centre for Safe and Improved Food, SRUC, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3JG, United Kingdom; Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Centre, SRUC, Barony Campus, Parkgate, Dumfries DG1 3NE, United Kingdom
| | - Wanxi Peng
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-Added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Su Shiung Lam
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meisam Tabatabaei
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Department of Biomaterials, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, 600 077, India.
| | - Mortaza Aghbashlo
- Henan Province Engineering Research Center for Biomass Value-Added Products, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China; Department of Mechanical Engineering of Agricultural Machinery, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.
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Trivedi A, Hait S. Fungal bioleaching of metals from WPCBs of mobile phones employing mixed Aspergillus spp.: Optimization and predictive modelling by RSM and AI models. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 349:119565. [PMID: 37976642 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, optimization and prediction models for fungal bioleaching for effective metal extraction from waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) of mobile phones were developed employing central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM), and two artificial intelligence (AI) models, i.e., artificial neural network (ANN) and, support vector machine (SVM), respectively. Two continuous process parameters, such as pH (4-9) and pulp density (1-10 g/L), and the bioleaching approaches, viz., one-step and two-step, were experimentally optimized for the extraction of targeted metals, i.e., Cu, Ni, and Zn from WPCBs by mixed cultures of Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus tubingensis. Datasets were then used for predictive modelling using AI tools. Results showed that the highest simultaneous bioleaching of Cu, Ni, and Zn, with an extraction efficacy of about 86%, 51%, and 100%, respectively, achieved at an optimal condition of pH 5.7 and pulp density of 3 g/L following the two-step bioleaching approach. Effective metal extraction in the two-step approach could be attributed to the abundant production of organic acids with a content of about 16.3 g/L, 8.4 g/L, and 0.5 g/L of citric acid, oxalic acid, and malic acid, respectively. Further, the predictive modelling revealed that the ANN model was found to predict the fungal bioleaching responses more accurately as compared to the SVM model with R2 values exceeding 0.96 for all targeted metals. This research demonstrates the applicability of the optimization and prediction models for efficient metal extraction from WPCBs using mixed Aspergillus spp. following the two-step approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Trivedi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar, 801 106, India
| | - Subrata Hait
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Patna, Bihar, 801 106, India.
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Meng Y, Lai J, Fan L, Mo S, Gou C, Zhang C. Recycling of the waste battery: Effect of waste battery on property of asphalt and environmental impact evaluation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166983. [PMID: 37699487 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
A waste battery is a kind of hazardous solid waste, and traditional recycling methods can cause serious environmental pollution. In this paper, a pilot study was conducted to reduce the leaching of heavy metals in waste battery power (WBP) by using the wrapping effect of asphalt and explored the feasibility of adding waste battery as a modifier to asphalt. The main components of WBP are determined through microscopic experiments, and its compatibility with asphalt and microscopic mechanism are analyzed; The influence of WBP on asphalt properties are analyzed through routine tests and mixture tests; The leaching test of toxicity is used to analyze the impact of WBP and WBP modified asphalt on the environment. The experimental results indicate that WBP is mainly composed of MnO2, C, and ZnO; There are many wrinkles and grooves on the surface of WBP, which can effectively adsorb asphalt during the modification process, produce anchoring effect, and have good compatibility with asphalt; The components of waste battery adsorb the aging light components in asphalt through their folds and swelling, so that the proportion of heavy components is relatively increased, improving the property indicators of asphalt; From the perspective of engineering property, WBP modified asphalt mixture has strong resistance to deformation and water damage. The leaching concentration of heavy metal ions from bare WBP in soil seriously exceeded the standard. In contrast, when WBP was added to asphalt, the cumulative leaching concentration of heavy metal ions was significantly reduced due to the wrapping effect of asphalt, and the WBP leaching toxicity was greatly suppressed; The method of recycling waste battery and adding it to asphalt as a modifier can prevent the release of heavy metal ions from waste battery into the environment and reduce the risk of the total environmental harm to soil, groundwater and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjun Meng
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China; Key Laboratory of Disaster Prevention and Engineering Safety of Ministry of Education, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China; Special Geological Highway Safety Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangxi, Nanning 530004, China; National High- property Computing Center Nanning Branch, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Jun Lai
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Liupeng Fan
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Shuyi Mo
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Chaoliang Gou
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China
| | - Chunyu Zhang
- College of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi 530004, China.
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Li XG, Gao Q, Jiang SQ, Nie CC, Zhu XN, Jiao TT. Review on the gentle hydrometallurgical treatment of WPCBs: Sustainable and selective gradient process for multiple valuable metals recovery. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119288. [PMID: 37864943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The metal resource crisis and the inherent need for a low-carbon circular economy have driven the rapid development of e-waste recycling technology. High-value waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) are an essential component of e-waste. However, WPCBs are considered hazardous to the ecosystem due to the presence of heavy metals and brominated organic polymers. Therefore, achieving the recycling of metals in WPCBs is not only a strategic requirement for building a green ecological civilization but also an essential guarantee for achieving a safe supply of mineral resources. This review systematically analyzes the hydrometallurgical technology of metals in WPCBs in recent years. Firstly, the different unit operations of pretreatment in the hydrometallurgical process, which contain disassembly, crushing, and pre-enrichment, were analyzed. Secondly, environmentally friendly hydrometallurgical leaching systems and high-value product regeneration technologies used in recent years to recover metals from WPCBs were evaluated. The leaching techniques, including cyanidation, halide, thiourea, and thiosulfate for precious metals, and inorganic acid, organic acid, and other leaching methods for base metals such as copper and nickel in WPCBs, were outlined, and the leaching performance and greenness of each leaching system were summarized and analyzed. Eventually, based on the advantages of each leaching system and the differences in chemical properties of metals in WPCBs, an integrated and multi-gradient green process for the recovery of WPCBs was proposed, which provides a sustainable pathway for the recovery of metals in WPCBs. This paper provides a reference for realizing the gradient hydrometallurgical recovery of metals from WPCBs to promote the recycling metal resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Guang Li
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266590, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266590, China
| | - Si-Qi Jiang
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266590, China
| | - Chun-Chen Nie
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266590, China
| | - Xiang-Nan Zhu
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266590, China.
| | - Tian-Tian Jiao
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266590, China.
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Hua Z, Tang L, Li L, Wu M, Fu J. Environmental biotechnology and the involving biological process using graphene-based biocompatible material. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 339:139771. [PMID: 37567262 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Biotechnology is a promising approach to environmental remediation but requires improvement in efficiency and convenience. The improvement of biotechnology has been illustrated with the help of biocompatible materials as biocarrier for environmental remediations. Recently, graphene-based materials (GBMs) have become promising materials in environmental biotechnology. To better illustrate the principle and mechanisms of GBM application in biotechnology, the comprehension of the biological response of microorganisms and enzymes when facing the GBMs is needed. The review illustrated distinct GBM-microbe/enzyme composites by providing the GBM-microbe/enzyme interaction and the determining factors. There are diverse GBM modifications for distinct biotechnology applications. Each of these methods and applications depends on the physicochemical properties of GBMs. The applications of these composites were mainly categorized as pollutant adsorption, anaerobic digestion, microbial fuel cells, and organics degradation. Where information was available, the strategies and mechanisms of GBMs in improving application efficacies were also demonstrated. In addition, the biological response, from microbial community changes, extracellular polymeric substances changes to biological pathway alteration, may become important in the application of these composites. Furthermore, we also discuss challenges facing the environmental application of GBMs, considering their fate and toxicity in the ecosystem, and offer potential solutions. This research significantly enhances our comprehension of the fundamental principles, underlying mechanisms, and biological pathways for the in-situ utilization of GBMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Hua
- Key Laboratory of Organic Compound Pollution Control Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, China
| | - Liang Tang
- Key Laboratory of Organic Compound Pollution Control Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, China.
| | - Liyan Li
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Minghong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Organic Compound Pollution Control Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, China
| | - Jing Fu
- Key Laboratory of Organic Compound Pollution Control Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, China.
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