Decouple and compare the role of abiotic factors and developed iron and sulphur oxidizers for enhanced extraction of metals from television printed circuit boards

Abstract

Chemical leaching agents were compared for metal extractions from selected e-waste. Effect of iron, sulphur oxidizers and the formulated consortium were investigated for metals extraction from television printed circuit boards. The consortium showed maximum metal leaching efficiency. The bioleaching profile was studied as a function of pH, redox potential, acid consumed and the amount of Cu, Zn and Ni extracted. At 10 g/L of e-waste, 90%, 93% and 87% of Cu, Zn and Ni were extracted within 96 h. Ethylene diamine tetra acetic and pyrite were found beneficial. Two-step process resulted in more metal extraction even at 100 g/L pulp density.