SBIR Phase II: An Improved Multi-Sensor Manufacturing System for Scrap Metal Sorting

Wte Corporation, Bedford MA

Investigators

Abstract

This Small Business Innovation (SBIR) Phase II project combines two technologies (XRF and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) into a single processing system for high speed sorting of scrap metal. The proposed new technology has the potential to revolutionize the way nonferrous metals from recycling facilities are handled. Instead of disposing of the metals in a landfill or selling them as low priced metal mixtures, they can be used directly in commercial applications. This project is aimed at validating small scale results on titanium and aluminum alloys from Phase I, and designing and constructing a prototype unit to demonstrate commercial feasibility.