Cradle-to-gate and efficiency studies of major mat.. (C2GE3E)
Cradle-to-gate and efficiency studies of major materials used in electrical and electronic equipment
(C2GE3E)
Start date: Apr 1, 2011,
End date: Jul 21, 2013
PROJECT
FINISHED
"Electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) are made of hundreds of components using thousand of materials in their lifespan. The complexity of material flows, coupled with the uncertainty of their sustainable use, makes it evident that a sound method of quantification and assessment is in order. The project aims to quantify the cradle-to-gate of the plastics and metals used in EEE in order to assess their life cycle and efficiency. Inputs and outputs to each process will be accounted by using the material balance principle whereas efficiencies will be calculated using exergy analysis. Exergy represents the potential for work or available energy, and it is not conserved, making it a useful property in determining losses, efficiency and irreversibilities of a system. The results of the C2GE3E project will help obtaining a wider knowledge of the material and energy requirements for the production of EEE but also the wastes generated through their lifespan. The project includes a case study based on a multifunctional mobile phone which uses scarce metals. Research in those metals is crucial to estimate the potential for mass production of emerging technologies and will help develop prospective assessments about future demands and reusing and recycling potential to meet the goals set by the Waste EEE directive.Dr Talens Peiró is a motivated young researcher that expects to advance in the research of life cycle and exergy analyses. The Marie Curie fellowship will provide her a highly qualified supervision by Prof. Ayres who works in efficiency studies since 1970s and did the first studies in life cycle and exergy analyses back in the 1990’s. The fellowship will offer a unique opportunity to advance her career as an independent researcher by consolidating her post-doctoral activities, improving her research, teaching, and vocational skills and enhance her international and multi-cultural experiences."
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