Circular Economy of PCB

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At Neatco, we developed an innovative solution to shear electronic components from printed circuit boards (PCBs) while preserving the integrity of the substrate. The aim was to enhance recycling efficiency by improving material recovery of 60-80% of lost material weight to emissions, allowing valuable components to be sent to specialized recyclers and the remaining substrate to be routed to appropriate facilities. This approach not only helps reduce environmental impact but also lowers transportation costs by revolutionizing how materials are sorted and shipped.  

Neatco’s solution involves a shearing machine that uses heated blades to apply shearing forces that will remove components from the PCB, while preserving the integrity of the PCB substrate. The shearing process separates components from the PCB, ensuring that valuable materials, such as Integrated Circuits (IC’s), connectors, and capacitors, can be sent to the appropriate recyclers. 

The substrate, meanwhile, can be directed to facilities focused on PCB substrate recycling or reuse in application requiring fiberglass such as insolation in homes. By shearing the components from the substrate, the system enables more efficient shipping as components and substrates can be sent to different recycling facilities in smaller, more efficient loads, reducing both transportation costs and the environmental footprint. 

This system optimizes the recycling process by ensuring that materials are recovered and processed in the most appropriate way, maximizing the value and sustainability of the e-waste. 

The shearing system has been successfully developed and a proof-of-concept machine built. Early testing has demonstrated that the shearing process works effectively, allowing components to be cleanly sheared from the PCB without damaging the substrate. This solution has shown promise in improving recycling efficiency, reducing waste, and supporting more sustainable e-waste management practices.