A value-driven approach to printed circuit board inspection: Strategic use of inspection technologies to reduce waste
Stefano PUTTERO, Elisa VERNA, Gianfranco GENTA, Maurizio GALETTO
Abstract. Electronic waste is an escalating global challenge that requires innovative and sustainable strategies to mitigate its environmental impact. This paper presents a decision model designed to identify the most effective inspection processes for printed circuit boards (PCBs) to enable their reuse, recycling or remanufacturing. The goal is to maximise the recoverable value of PCBs while minimising waste. By systematically analysing inspection processes, the model provides a structured framework for determining the sequence of measurement technologies that balance cost effectiveness with the potential for value recovery. This methodology improves resource efficiency and minimises environmental impact, in addition to supporting the principles of a circular economy. Through an illustrative case study, the approach shows how targeted inspections can significantly extend the life of electronic boards, improve economic value recovery and promote environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.
Keywords
Quality, Sustainability, E-Waste
Published online 9/10/2025, 8 pages
Copyright © 2025 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Stefano PUTTERO, Elisa VERNA, Gianfranco GENTA, Maurizio GALETTO, A value-driven approach to printed circuit board inspection: Strategic use of inspection technologies to reduce waste, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 57, pp 402-409, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644903735-47
The article was published as article 47 of the book Italian Manufacturing Association Conference
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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