Review of Nanotechnology-assisted E Waste Valorisation for Circular Economy Applications: Precious Metal Recovery and E-Plastic Upcycling
J. Environ. Nanotechnol., Volume 15, No 3 (September 2026) pp. 25-35
Abstract
The escalating production of electronic waste is a major environmental and resource management problem globally. However, electronic waste is also a source of precious metals and polymeric materials, which can be recovered through circular economy approaches. In this review, recent progress in nanotechnology enabled approaches for electronic waste valorisation, including precious metal recovery and E plastic upcycling, is discussed. The use of magnetic nanoparticles, graphene nanomaterials, metal organic frameworks and nanocatalysts for selective metal extraction is presented, as well as novel methods for transforming E plastics into pyrolytic oils, carbon nanotubes and other high value added materials. It underlines the potential of these technologies to improve resource efficiency, mitigate environmental impacts and contribute to the development of sustainable urban mining. Major challenges such as scalability, economic viability and environmental safety will be discussed, as well as interesting avenues for the future potential integration of green nanotechnology and circular economy principles in sustainable electronic waste management.
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