Obsolete PCB Sorting
摘要
The fourth pilot of the CIRC-UITS project, led by Erion, focuses on optimizing the sorting and reuse of obsolete printed circuit boards (PCBs) from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), emphasizing washing machines. Current manual sorting methods are labor-intensive and inefficient, limiting the recovery of valuable materials. This pilot introduces AI-based sorting models, a digital marketplace, and advanced human–machine interfaces to support operators and streamline the reuse process. By connecting treatment plants with manufacturers, the pilot promotes component-level reuse over traditional recycling, aligning with EU regulatory trends and contributing to the resolution of the semiconductor material crisis. Preliminary results highlight both the potential and challenges of implementing scalable circular business models. Key barriers include regulatory constraints related to end-of-waste status and the need for functional testing infrastructure. Addressing these issues is essential for mainstreaming reuse pathways and enhancing the circularity of electronics.