The RE4M PCB plant, born from the experience gained by OSAI within the European project ADIR, represents a breakthrough in the field of material recovery from electronic waste. This fully automated system is designed for the valorisation of the materials contained within the electronic boards of disused electronic devices through a thermomechanical process for the detachment of the components from the electronic PCBs and subsequent selection and separation also intended for the direct refining of precious metals through hydrometallurgy, such as gold, silver, copper and palladium.

Thanks to the application of the best available technologies and the experience accumulated in the sector, RE4M allows WEEE – Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment – to be given a new life, transforming them into high quality secondary raw materials. This process fits perfectly into the circular economy, creating a virtuous cycle in which e-waste becomes a resource for new production processes, thus reducing the need to extract new natural resources.

The RE4M plant uses the Siemens Industrial Edge platform, which allows information technology to be brought into the production environment and manage data directly, quickly and efficiently. The solution offers a twofold advantage: on the one hand, it enhances the value of the processed waste lot by integrating its extraction of precious metals with energy consumption data, and on the other hand, the continuous monitoring of consumption allows targeted maintenance to intervene whenever an anomaly with respect to normal operation is detected.

The technology developed by OSAI, combined with the system of our partner BTT Italia S.r.l., guarantees an extremely efficient recovery of precious metals such as gold, silver, palladium and copper, with a highly sustainable approach. The entire process stands out for its high efficiency and low environmental impact, representing an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional disposal and recovery techniques.

Confirming its uniqueness, the plant and the innovative technology on which RE4M is based are covered by patents, thus protecting the know-how developed and guaranteeing maximum added value for our customers and partners. With RE4M, OSAI once again confirms its commitment to sustainable innovation and the promotion of a true transition to a circular future.