Electronic waste processing through copper recycling : an economic analysis

E-waste is a complex waste category containing both hazardous and valuable substances. It demands for a cost-efficient treatment system which simultaneously liberates and refines target fractions in an environmentally sound way. This study compiles data to allow cost evaluations for metal recovery from e-waste treatment through copper smelting process and compares that with the secondary copper smelting without adding electronic waste to the feed. To formulate a preliminary assessment of likely project economics and viability, a theoretical techno-economic study was attempted. The data given focuses on the process plant and main consumption data. Site-specific cost factors have been eliminated as far as possible. Costs are mainly presented on the basis of cost per annual tonne of copper production. The outcome of the project confirms that e-waste recycling process through secondary copper smelting includes considerable potential value and therefore should be taken into consideration. The cost–benefit analysis demonstrates how the e-waste recycling market can grow profitability over the first 3 years of the plant operation. The results of this study provide a reliable estimate of future e-waste infrastructure requirement to support product stewardship schemes that meet municipal expectations.