The Problem
Over 200m LCD displays are sold per annum (p.a.) making them one of the fastest growing waste streams on the planet. The WEEE directive requires the mandatory removal of the components containing the hazardous substances mercury and liquid crystals. With limited options on the market to achieve this, most recyclers undertake the disassembly by hand. Votechniks ALR4000 technology solves this problem through high-speed depollution of LCDs, allowing their subsequent shredding to recover the valuable materials. Compared to market alternatives, the ALR4000 is cheaper to acquire, more efficient to operate, generating significant revenue for the recycler, solving the problems associated with mercury and liquid crystals, reducing risk for the facility, and putting recycling back in the hands of the SME recyclers.
Importance for Society
The risk posed by waste LCDs to EU citizens is great, so much so, that the EU legislated for the mandatory depollution of these devices at end of life. Mercury and liquid crystals within LCDs, from which the device gets its name, are hazardous. Mercury is considered by WHO as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern having toxic effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, and on lungs, kidneys, skin & eyes. Exposure to mercury in even small amounts may cause serious health problems. While liquid crystals are showing potential to be persistent, bioaccumulative contaminants and have toxic properties. These substances threaten the air quality of our cities and the health of those at recycling facilities while their leakage from landfill can contaminate soil and water. There the need for a cost effective solution for LCD depollution is great.
Objectives
The ALR4000 technology and project is at the heart of the green deal to achieve zero pollution and foster the circular economy.
The objectives of the project are outlined herein:
• To build out and commission the ALR4000 machine at full scale. A self-contained plant equipped with industrial vision, robotic handling, integrated Industry 4.0 and an on-board environmental system. The ALR4000 is utilizing state of art robotics and automation to deliver the most advanced technology available on the market.
• To undertake market replications of the ALR4000 technology acting as demonstrations site for international delegations to view the technology in live operation for industry and national public open days.
