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Project Code [2015-RE-MS-4]
This information is correct as of today and is updated from time to time by the EPA to reflect changes in the management of the project. Please check back regularly for updates.
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
WEEE Ireland
Lead Organisation
University of Limerick (UL)
Lead Applicant
Lisa O'Donoghue
Project Abstract
From a research perspective the focus is to Europe 2020 policy: One of Europe 2020�s flagship initiatives is Resource Efficiency which promotes extraction and recycling with the aim of using waste as a resource. It recognises the strategic importance of avoiding risks to supply of resources such as rare earths which are contained within modern electronic equipment. Rare earth materials which are contained within the liquid crystal displays (LCDs) have been classified as Critical Raw Materials (Critical Raw materials for the EU, EC working group report, July 2010). The liquid crystal panel once removed from the LCD display is a stand-alone component which contains two glass panels coated in rare earth compounds sandwiching liquid crystals. This liquid crystal panel has potential for urban mining for these critical materials which can be used in next generation display technology. The proposed work involves hydrometallurgical testing to recovery rare earths; investigation of scale up of process and the application of automation to the process and final review of the commercial viability of the solution. Project outputs: � Databases and scientific reports from Work Packages 1, 2, 3 and 4 as previously detailed uploaded to the SMARTSIMPLE EPA site. � 3 Peer reviewed publications in �Hydrometallurgy� and �Waste Management� journals � 1 Final report � A two-page summary report on project results for the EPA website � �LCD-Val� webpage added to the InnoLCD website ( original project website) with updated schedule at 6month intervals � Best practice guidelines for rare earth recovery from LCDs (approx., 5 page doc) � 2 page document on Irish policy regarding waste LCD management
Grant Approved
�345,646.79
Research Hub
Green and Circular Economy
Research Theme
Resource efficiency
Initial Projected Completion Date
11/10/2017