When disposed of carelessly, electronic waste, like your old laptop, will release toxins into the environment, polluting waters and landfills. Turning your device over to a reputable organization that follows a standard laptop recycling process is the responsible way to dispose of your old electronics. Here is what happens when your laptop ends up at a recycling center. 

How Laptops Are Recycled

1. Testing

First, your laptop will be tested to determine if it can be resold as a whole unit. It’s not uncommon to find recycled computers that are still functional. These can be sold as refurbished items after minor repairs and a memory wipe. They often benefit non-profit organizations and schools that need affordable electronics. If the laptop is inoperable, usable parts can be sold as second-hand components.

2. Separation

Parts that can’t be sold are further processed into recyclable materials. The laptop recycling process relies on efficiently separating the computer’s components. This separation is essential to ensure hazardous waste is disposed of properly. Some dangerous substances that have to be removed include lead, mercury, cadmium, and zinc. Hard drives are also separated and shredded before going to a refining company that can further recover other usable materials.

3. Organizing

Rare precious metals such as platinum, gold, lithium, indium, and nickel are removed and classified as reusable sources to be further recycled. For instance, batteries are shipped to battery recycling plants, while copper wires are sent to copper smelters. Steel can be made into new steel, and aluminum can be turned into beverage cans.

4. Selling

The laptop recycling process generally ends with usable raw materials being prepared and sold to manufacturing companies that turn them into new products or electronics. Copper, steel, and aluminum are particularly valuable as specification-grade commodities. 

Disposing of your electronics responsibly can help save the environment, so when you’re ready to part with your laptop, visit Denver Metal Recycling in Colorado for unparalleled customer service when it comes to laptop recycling, liquidations, steel recycling, auto battery recycling, clean-outs, and other recycling solutions. Call them today at (303) 316-2880 to learn more, or visit their Facebook page to connect with them online.