Characterization of end-of-life mobile phone printed circuit boards for its elemental composition and beneficiation analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Globally, waste electrical and electronic equipment is one of the fastest-growing waste sectors. Mobile phones constitute the major portion of the telecommunication e-waste category. Over the years, waste mobile phones were considered as a potential source of secondary metals. This study aims to determine the physical and chemical composition of the discarded mobile phones and to evaluate its recovery potential. The printed circuit boards from the discarded (waste) mobile phones (MPCB) were collected and samples of different sizes 3 × 3 cm, 2 mm, 1 mm, 500 µm, and 150 µm were obtained after milling and sieving. Elemental composition revealed the presence of base metals, Cu, Zn, Fe, Ni, and Pb, in higher quantities with a significant amount of precious metals Au and Ag. Amount of base metals present in different MPCB size fractions was found in the order 3 × 3 cm > 2 mm > 1 mm > 500 µm >150 µm. The amount of precious metals like Ag and Au was found to be higher in large-sized MPCB fractions. FTIR studies declared the presence of polymers like ABS, PC, and HIPs in MPCB samples. TCLP tests for toxic metals revealed that MPCBs contained high concentrations of cadmium, lead, and mercury highlighting their hazardous potential. The ultimate analysis revealed that NMF has a GCV of 12.34 MJ/kg and a volatile content of 42.25%, which can be a potential source of energy that can be recovered through the gasification or pyrolysis process. Overall, the comprehensive characterization of waste MPCBs will systematically provide a better understanding of e-waste recycling processes for beneficiation purpose and sustainable resource utilization. Implications: A comprehensive characterization of waste mobile phone printed circuit boards for its elemental composition was performed. Mechanical treatment steps before MPCBs processing increased the exposure of metals resulting in a higher concentration of metals in acid-digested samples. The elemental analysis of MPCBs revealed that MPCBs possessed significant quantities of base and precious metals. The amount of precious metals like Ag and Au was also found in higher ranges in large-sized MPCB fractions, which elucidated fact to be considered in the pre-treatment process for metal recoveries. The high content of base and precious metals in waste mobile phones displayed their economic potential in the market. This new source may compensate for the escalating global demand for gold and silver. Results from the study indicated that MPCBs can serve as an excellent secondary source for various metals and as an efficient alternative fuel.