Closing the loop of printed-wire-boards and electronic devices: experiences from automatic disassembling as an input for manufacturers

Due to the fast pace of technological innovation, and the consequent shortening lifetimes of electronic products, particularly ICT equipment, a,flexible semi-automatic disassembling cell "/spl Sigma/! 1592 - Disassembly Factory" for extracting components from printed wire boards (PWB) has been developed. Based on these disassembling experiences design criteria for a re-use optimized structure of PWBs and electronic components have been defined in order to maximize the benefit for economy and environment. If industry becomes aware of the elaborated design criteria and uses these investigations, number of reusable components can be achieved and enhanced significantly hand in hand with the improved quality and positive feedback regarding landfill volume and depletion of primary materials.