Of the different e-waste processing activities carried out in Guiyu, China, the recycling of printed circuit boards is probably the most important input of heavy metals to the surface environment. The recycling procedure involves melting of solder from circuit boards over makeshift coal grills, and removal and sorting of electrical components such as chips, capacitors, and diodes which are sold to electrical appliance factories. Portable household fans are the only precautionary measures taken to reduce worker exposure to toxic solder fumes.
Download the full from the Environmental Science & Technology / VOL. 42, NO. 7, 2008
Document-part.pdf (1567 downloads )