Urban mining can return valuable metals from waste streams to production; however, feed type, coatings, solder, polymers and base metals must be characterised before selecting a process.
Feedstocks for Evaluation
- Selected printed circuit boards and connectors
- Separated CPUs, ICs and electronic components
- Gold- or silver-plated feedstocks
- Catalysts and prepared powders supported by reliable assays
Recommended Evaluation Sequence
- Feed separation and identification
- Mechanical preparation and representative sampling
- Controlled leaching or stripping test
- Selection of recovery and refining route
- Solution recirculation or treatment in accordance with local regulations
Selectivity and process-speed claims must be confirmed on actual feed. Unknown or mixed feedstocks require preliminary analysis and testing.