Reverse logistics and large-scale material recovery from electronics waste
Author(s)
Krones, Jonathan Seth
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Other Contributors
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering.
Advisor
Randolph E. Kirchain, Jr.
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Waste consolidation is a crucial step in the development of cost-effective, nation-wide material reclamation networks. This thesis project investigates typical and conformational tendencies of a hypothetical end-of-life electronics recycling system based in the United States. Optimal waste processor configurations, along with cost drivers and sensitivities are identified using a simple reverse logistics linear programming model. The experimental procedure entails varying the model scenario based on: type of material being recycled, the properties of current recycling and consolidation practices, and an extrapolation of current trends into the future. The transition from a decentralized to a centralized recycling network is shown to be dependent on the balance between transportation costs and facility costs, with the latter being a much more important cost consideration than the former. Additionally, this project sets the stage for a great deal of future work to ensure the profitability of domestic e-waste recycling systems.
Description
Thesis (S.B.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, 2007. Includes bibliographical references (p. 107-111).
Date issued
2007Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Materials Science and EngineeringPublisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Keywords
Materials Science and Engineering.