14 - Recycling liquid crystal displays

The WEEE Directive states that mercury-containing backlights used in liquid crystal display (LCD) panels, are hazardous and must be removed. With little data available on the recycling techniques required for LCDs, the electronic waste management industry is uncertain as to the best practical environmental options for their treatment. The most appropriate process for the waste industry will be based on the following: (i) composition, (ii) treatment processes, (iii) material recovery and (iv) environmental protection. These challenges are now facing the recycling industry in their endeavour to process LCDs and to be prepared for their successor technologies. This chapter will outline the important issues to consider when recycling display equipment.