Abstract:
In this research, an application of reduction melting method for metal recovery from the electronic waste was evaluated. The study started with heat treatments of CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) glass at various temperatures in order to identify the optimal metal recovery condition. The % remaining PbO determined by XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) showed the lowest amount when heat treatment was performed at 1200oC for 1 hour coupled with annealing at 500oC for 2 hours. The results from XRF were in line with the the % Pb recovery results. The optimal heat treatment condition was then, applied to recover metals, e.g., Cu, Pb, Sn, from an example of electronic waste; CRT glass mixed with PCB (Printed Circuit Boards). By EPMA (Electron Probe Micro Analysis), it was found that the reduction melting method could recovery high amount of metals from electronic waste. In addition, % metal recovery increased with the PCB addition. The results from this research confirmed that reduction melting is one of promising methods for metal recovery from electronic waste.