A Japan-Italy research team say they have developed a simple and convenient method for recovering copper wires from PVC cables that involves the use of microwave radiation and avoids the generation or use of toxic chemicals.
    • @girsaysdoom@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
      1•5 months ago

      That’s the problem. If you’re evaporating plastic then you’re definitely releasing a multitude of chemicals; some of which would likely be harmful. Since this is to be performed in large quantities that could be a significant amount of pollution.

      • @Akrenion@slrpnk.netEnglish
        6•5 months ago

        This was achieved without the generation or use of toxic chemicals. The researchers explain that during the pyrolysis, the PVC insulation underwent rapid dichlorination and carbonization, which prevented the formation of harmful byproducts such as tar, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and dioxins.