Scientists have developed new printed circuit boards made from virtimer (vitrimer) that can significantly reduce the volume of electronic waste because they can be easily recycled for reuse.
Eco-boards
Innovative development
Researchers from the University of Washington have invented unique printed circuit boards that partially turn into gel-like mass during processing. This allows board components to be efficiently separated for reuse, reducing hazardous waste.
Traditionally, epoxy resins are used in the production of circuit boards, which are difficult to separate from fiberglass. The scientists replaced this mixture with vitrimer, a polymer that loses strength when heated in a solvent.
Recycling technology
During operation, the vitrimer retains the properties of a conventional dielectric. At the end of its life, the circuit board is placed in a heated solvent, causing the vitrimer to gel, allowing it to be separated from the remaining components for reuse.
Tests have shown that 98% of the vitrimer and 91% of the solvent can be recycled. It is estimated that the use of such boards will reduce the negative impact on the environment and human health by up to 80% compared to traditional printed circuit boards.
Benefits of the new method
The new technology allows the use of standard manufacturing equipment and the ability to recycle boards over and over again. This will help significantly reduce the amount of electronic waste, reducing harmful emissions and the negative impact on global warming.
Glossary
- University of Washington - higher education institution, research center in the USA
- Vitrimer (vitrimer) - a polymer that can be recycled by heating
- Epoxy resins - thermosetting resins based on epoxy compounds
- Dielectric - electrical insulating material
- Nature Sustainability is a scientific journal published by Springer Nature
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Questions answered
What are vPCBs and how do they help reduce e-waste?
What are the advantages of using vPCB over regular PCBs?
How is vPCB recycled?
Can vPCB be produced in existing plants?
Which scientific journal published this study?
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Discussion of the topic – Revolutionary PCBs: Jelly for Efficient Recycling
Scientists at the University of Washington have developed revolutionary circuit boards that partially turn into jelly, making them much easier to recycle and reducing e-waste.
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Михаил
A very tempting idea! Since technologies are developing faster than we can process them, new solutions are simply necessary. 🌱
Соня
This is truly impressive. Recycling up to 98% of material is a huge step forward. It would be great if all electronics manufacturers adopted this technology. 💻♻️
Ян
Great news for the environment! But what about the cost of producing such boards? Will they be more expensive than regular ones? This may become a barrier to their widespread distribution. 🤔
Анна
Ian, you raise a good point. However, when you consider the long term and disposal cost savings, the cost may be justified. In addition, demand creates supply - the more they produce, the cheaper they will become. 📉
Кароль
Phew, these trends again! In my time, we didn’t bother with recycling, we just threw everything in the trash. Kids, better do something useful instead of this nonsense. 👴🤨
Джулия
Karol, you can see for yourself what harm electronic waste causes. This is an important issue for future generations. Or do you want to leave them a destroyed planet? 🌍
Пьер
I've heard that some companies are already experimenting with this technology. I hope they succeed and we can use greener electronics. 🔋🌳
Ева
It's great that scientists are finding ways to reduce waste. I remember how, as children, we threw out old TVs and computers without even thinking about it. Now is your chance to correct the situation! 😊