Análise química e morfológica de metais contidos em placas de circuito impresso (pci): uma abordagem para recuperação sustentável

Abstract

The recovery of metals from electronic waste, especially from printed circuit boards (PCBs), is essential for environmental preservation and sustainable development. These boards contain valuable metals such as copper, gold, silver, and tantalum, as well as other ceramic and polymeric materials. This study evaluates the feasibility of recovering these metals—focusing primarily on copper—from obsolete PCBs, proposing mechanical, hydrometallurgical, and pyrometallurgical processes, or combinations thereof. The research highlights the challenges posed by the increasing volume of electronic waste, the lack of investment in proper treatment in Brazil, and the reliance on processes carried out abroad. The National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010) establishes shared responsibility among consumers, industries, and government, and public awareness is crucial for the implementation of effective wastemanagement practices. The adoption of circular economy principles and design for circularity is essential to reduce the environmental impacts of improper disposal and to promote the reuse of these materials. This study analyzes the elemental composition of PCB samples from a mobile-phone manufacturing plant in the Manaus Industrial Hub (PIM), considering material variability according to device model and the technology employed. In addition to the technical analysis, the research aims to foster sustainability within the electronic-waste production chain, seeking to minimize waste and promote the efficient use of natural resources. By addressing metal recovery and waste management, the study also underscores the importance of environmental education and innovation in improving treatment and recycling practices.