Cutting-Edge Innovations in Metal Recovery from Electronic Waste: Challenges, Techniques and Future Horizons

Dear Colleagues,

The escalating production of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) represents a critical challenge and opportunity for resource recovery and environmental protection. With global WEEE generation exceeding 62 million metric tons in 2022 and projected to reach 74 million metric tons by 2030, recycling rates remain alarmingly low—averaging just 17.4% globally. Despite this, WEEE contains significant amounts of valuable metals, such as gold, silver, and copper, with an estimated value of USD 91 billion in 2022 alone. Enhanced recovery and recycling could generate substantial economic and environmental benefits while mitigating the risks posed by hazardous materials, including heavy metals and toxic substances, in components such as printed circuit boards (PCBs).

This Special Issue explores cutting-edge advancements in metal recovery from WEEE, encompassing innovative mechanical, hydrometallurgical, pyrometallurgical, and biometallurgical methods. Emphasis is placed on environmentally friendly and economically viable technologies, such as the use of thiosulfates for gold leaching, froth flotation, and electrostatic separation. Contributions on size reduction techniques are also encouraged, as they play a pivotal role in metal liberation.

Topics of interest include the optimization of existing recycling technologies, the scalability of laboratory methods to industrial applications, and the integration of recycling processes into circular economy frameworks. Additionally, submissions addressing the economic implications of improved recycling rates, the potential for regulatory advancements, and the mitigation of environmental risks associated with WEEE mismanagement are welcome.

This Special Issue seeks to provide a comprehensive platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering innovative solutions to transform WEEE from a growing global challenge into a valuable resource for sustainable development.

Prof. Dr. Ernesto Chicardi
Guest Editor

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