Turn youre-waste into gold
Your comprehensive guide to recovering precious metals from electronic components. Search any component to see its gold, silver, copper, and palladium content with real-time values.
Component Metal Lookup
Search for any electronic component to see its precious metal content, current value at spot prices, and recovery recommendations.
Type a component name/number or use your camera to scan a barcode
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Live Metal Prices
Real-time precious metal spot prices (USD)
Recovery & Refining Methods
Detailed guides for extracting precious metals from electronic components. Always prioritize safety and follow all precautions.
Important Safety Warning
These methods involve hazardous chemicals that can cause severe burns, produce toxic gases, and present fire/explosion risks. Never attempt without proper PPE, ventilation, and training. See the Safety section below before proceeding.
A relatively gentle method using hydrochloric acid and hydrogen peroxide to dissolve base metals and release gold foils.
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The royal water - a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids that dissolves gold. Used for final refining.
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A regenerative etching solution that can be reused indefinitely. Dissolves copper and releases gold foils.
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Uses electricity to selectively dissolve and redeposit gold at high purity.
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Removes gold plating using electricity, depositing it onto a cathode for collection.
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Burning electronic components to remove plastics and organics before chemical processing.
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Safety & Personal Protective Equipment
Your safety is the top priority. Never skip PPE or safety precautions - no amount of gold is worth your health.
Required Safety Equipment
Acid-Resistant Gloves (Nitrile or Neoprene)
Heavy-duty chemical-resistant gloves that protect against acids and corrosive solutions. Nitrile or neoprene rated for acid use.
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Full Face Shield
Clear polycarbonate face shield that protects entire face from splashes and fumes.
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Chemical Splash Goggles
Sealed safety goggles that prevent liquid splashes from reaching eyes. Must be chemical-rated, not just impact-rated.
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Half-Face Respirator with Acid Gas Cartridges
NIOSH-approved respirator with OV/AG (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas) cartridges. Replace cartridges regularly.
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Chemical-Resistant Apron
Full-length rubber or PVC apron that protects clothing and body from splashes.
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Emergency Eyewash and Shower
Immediate access to clean water for flushing eyes and skin in case of exposure.
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Fire Extinguisher (ABC or Chemical)
Appropriate fire extinguisher for chemical fires. Know how to use before starting work.
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Neutralizing Agents
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) for acid spills, and appropriate neutralizers for your specific chemicals.
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Fume Hood or Outdoor Work Area
Proper ventilation to remove toxic fumes. Work outdoors with wind at your back, or use a rated fume hood.
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First Aid Kit with Chemical Burn Supplies
Standard first aid plus burn gel, sterile water for flushing, and emergency contact numbers.
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Recommended Equipment
Chemical-Resistant Boots or Shoe Covers
Rubber boots or disposable boot covers to protect feet from spills.
Use For:
Lab Coat or Long-Sleeved Protection
Protects arms and torso. Should be removed immediately if contaminated.
Use For:
Emergency Information
Poison Control (US)
1-800-222-1222
Emergency Services
911
Chemical Spill
Neutralize with baking soda, evacuate area
Skin Contact
Flush with water 15+ minutes