Recycling of film and photographic materials.

Modern processes mean efficient processing.

REMONDIS Argentia recycles film and photographic chemicals in a complex process which consists of a number of phases. The raw materials produced – namely plastic and silver – are known for their high level of purity and are much sought-after in industry. The following are a few details about the process phases:

 

 

 

Collection
Our service starts 'at your door'. Our drivers are ADR certified and are very experienced in dealing with hazardous materials. They remove both mixtures and developing and fixing sheets, plus any film which is no longer required. All collection vehicles are specially designed and have pump installations with registration units. The standard equipment also includes a sampling device and chemical-resistant plastic floors with integrated emergency containers.

 

 

 

Sampling
In the event of interim storage of the materials we take samples and analyse the chemicals to be processed. Depending on the waste, an initial check is carried out by the driver.

 

 

 

Acceptance
Acceptance is based on the analysis from the laboratory, after which the materials are transferred to the right interim storage location according to composition.

 

 

 

Processing

Within the framework of recycling, a variety of techniques are used according to type of material:
Chemicals are first pumped in large storage tanks. We recycle waste flows that contain silver ourselves while those that do not contain silver are forwarded to other REMONDIS processing locations.
Film is shredded and then undergoes a special washing process during which the silver is separated. After that the washed film material and the washing liquid with silver in it go their own way.
The washed film material is used as raw material in the plastics industry for the production of new products or as an alternative fuel.
Chemicals containing silver undergo an electrolysis process during which the silver is changed into a form which can be melt down.

 

 

 

Silver processing
Due to the fact that the liquid is not mixed with other metals, REMONDIS Argentia is able to restore the silver to a purity of 99.9%. This takes place in two stages. During the first melting, the silver is heated to around 1,000°C and cast into rough silver ingots. At the end of the second melting the silver is turned into granulate.

We have plenty of capacity and can also process urgent orders as required.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REMONDIS Argentiais a member of a select group of LBMA certified companies.