Repurposing end of life notebook computers from consumer WEEE as thin client computers – A hybrid end of life strategy for the Circular Economy in electronics

摘要: Abstract This paper presents an investigation into the feasibility of repurposing end-of-life notebook computers as thin client computers. Repurposing is identification a new use for product that can no longer be used in its original form and has potential to become hybrid re-use/recycling strategy suitable e-waste when direct reuse not economically or technically feasible. In this instance, it was targeted produce using motherboards, processors memory from laptops while recycling all other components. Notebook are interest type due having substantial environmental impact manufacturing but often option they prone damage experience rapid loss value over time. They also contain multiple critical raw materials with very low rates. The were sourced Civic Amenity sites (CA) originated business-to-consumer (B2C) channels. A total 246 collected analysed. outlines methodology developed identify, test, analyse, disassemble devices repurposing. consists following stages associated pass rates; Visual Inspection & Power-on Test (32%) Initial-stage functionality test comprised Functionality (56%), Diagnostics (100%) Benchmarking (86%). Disassembly stage had rate 100% Post-Disassembly Validation Final-stage 61%. overall results show 9% It recommends design changes notebooks/laptops would support repurposing; 1) PCB mounted Fan Heatsink assembly, 2) Eliminate daughter I/O boards, 3) separate Power Button 4) Reduction size motherboards surface area physical size. These allow more efficient transition change role. streamlined lifecycle analysis based on Cumulative Energy Demand (CED) undertaken compare repurposed indicated there significant savings made by extending lifetimes offsetting production under range assumptions.