Upcycling Compact Discs for Bioelectronic Applications

Abstract

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a global issue brought about by the short lifespan of electronics. Viable methods to relieve the inundated disposal system by repurposing the enormous amount of e-waste remain elusive. Inspired by the need for sustainable solutions, this study resulted in a multifaceted approach to upcycling compact discs (CDs). The once-ubiquitous plates can be transformed into stretchable and flexible biosensors. Our experiments and advanced prototypes show that effective, innovative biosensors can be developed at a low-cost. An affordable craft-based mechanical cutter allows pre-determined patterns to be scored on the recycled metal, an essential first step for producing stretchable, wearable electronics. The active metal harvested from the CDs was inert, cytocompatible, and capable of vital biopotential measurements. Additional studies examined the material’s resistive emittance, temperature sensing, real-time metabolite monitoring performance, and moisture-triggered transience. This sustainable approach for upcycling e-waste provides an advantageous research-based waste stream that does not require cutting-edge microfabrication facilities, expensive materials, and high-caliber engineering skills.

Recycling and Upcycling in the Electro-Mechanical Domain: A Review of Current Practices

“…These solutions are crucial for transforming waste into valuable resources and enhancing the sustainability of these systems. Brown et al (2021) and Brown et al (2022) present a groundbreaking approach to upcycling compact discs (CDs) for bioelectronic applications. This innovative method transforms CDs, a common form of electronic waste, into stretchable and flexible biosensors.…”