Segregation of Batteries from Pyrolyzed Entire Smartphones by Means of Density Separation

In a scenario of excessive use of manual work and rudimentary techniques, small and medium recyclers of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) urge for novel solutions that promote more efficient and safe processes. This study presents a simple recycle route for entire smartphones (minimizing manual work) and publish a novel method for the segregation of batteries from other components through density separation.

Smartphones are pyrolyzed and sieved. Density separation is tested to find a possible condition that separates the batteries. Additionally, different solutions were tested to validate the method with 50 smartphones.

Pyrolysis and sieving experiments were conducted successfully, and an ideal density for the separation was found. Into the selected condition, all batteries floated and all other components sank. When validating the method, it reached an efficacy of 96%. At the end, a simple and effective recycling route is provided.

The proposed recycling route is useful to avoid the costly and time-consuming steps of dismantling, while improving profits and safety conditions. In terms of products, two main flows are produced: batteries and other concentrated electronic parts. This method can be utilized by small and medium recyclers, and further studies with other electronic equipment are encouraged.