Review of Reagent-Free Electronic Waste Recycling: Technology, Energy, Materials and Spatial Effects
Kulenova N. Sadenova M. Boldyryev S.
February 2026Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)
Recycling
2026#11Issue 2
The rapid increase in e-waste has become a significant global concern, influenced by swift technological advancements, shorter product lifecycles, and rising consumer demand. This situation leads to considerable environmental and health hazards, primarily due to the presence of toxic materials, energy demands, and the inadvertent loss of valuable resources when waste is not adequately managed. This review synthesises contemporary theories related to sustainable e-waste management, featuring concepts such as principles of the circular economy, energy efficiency and innovative recycling technologies. The review explores a range of actions, including regulatory strategies, mechanical pre-treatment methods, focusing on reagent-free recovery techniques, and the utilisation of digital solutions to enhance traceability and operational efficiency. The findings indicate substantial improvements in formal e-waste collection rates in areas with strong legislative frameworks, enhanced metal recovery efficiencies through refined hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical techniques and minimised environmental footprints through reagent-free and energy-conserving practices. The review emphasises the importance of viewing e-waste recycling not just as a waste management issue but as a fundamental element of resource security and sustainable industrial practices. By assessing recent developments, this work advocates for closed-loop recycling as an essential driver in the global shift towards a resilient, low-carbon, energy-efficient and circular economy.
circularity , e-waste , energy , material recovery , reagent-free recycling
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The Center of Excellence “VERITAS”, D. Serikbayev East Kazakhstan Technical University, Ust-Kamenogorsk, 070004, Kazakhstan
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, The University of Zagreb, Zagreb, 10000, Croatia
The Center of Excellence “VERITAS”
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture
10 лет помогаем публиковать статьи Международный издатель
Книга Публикация научной статьи Волощук 2026 Book Publication of a scientific article 2026