this post was submitted on 28 Nov 2024
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133
Scientists use microwave radiation to recover copper from old VVF power cables (www.pv-magazine.com)
submitted 1 day ago by ArtikBanana@lemmy.dbzer0.com to c/technology@lemmy.world
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[–] 0x0@programming.dev 52 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago) (1 children)

The method developed by the researchers involves placing VVF power cables in a glass reactor where they are subjected to microwave radiation. The pyrolysis carbonizes the PVC insulation, exposing the copper wire and allowing it to be easily recovered.

So putting cables in a microwave to melt the plastic?

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.

This may be an improvement...

[–] EpicMuch@sh.itjust.works 3 points 1 day ago

This needs to be styropyro’s next video with his monster microwave generator