Total Recycling of Copper Cable Scrap and Production of Carbon Using Fast Microwave Technology

The recycling of cable scrap, particularly from discarded electrical wiring, is gaining significant attention due to the rising demand for copper and the need for sustainable management of electronic waste. Traditionally, mechanical processing has been used to recover copper and plastic from cables. However, this approach is often energy-intensive, time-consuming, and costly in terms of equipment and labor. In this study, we propose a simple microwave technology as an alternative method for fast and efficient recovery of materials from cable scrap, particularly copper and carbon. Microwaves facilitate the separation of plastic, generating carbon and allowing direct copper extraction with minimal energy input. The recovered materials can be reused or repurposed, adding further value to the recycling effort. This approach improves recovery efficiency, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for industrial purposes.