Understanding The Recycling Of Scrap Oxygen Sensors

By Harold Evans


All modern cars come with an oxygen sensor as part of a system installed in the exhaust piping to control emissions. It is usually located in the catalytic converter, and plays an integral role in reducing toxic gases emitted by the exhaust. This sensor needs to be replaced whenever it becomes worn out because it can affect engine performance. If you have no idea of how to dispose scrap oxygen sensors, you'd be glad to know that there's substantial value in recycling.

Oxygen sensors contain a tiny amount of platinum that acts as an efficient catalyst thanks to its non-oxidizing properties. Additionally, it's also resistant to corrosion. Of late, the demand for platinum has sharply risen as concerns over the environmental footprint left by its mining continue to grow. Recycling worn out oxygen sensors has hence become viable from both financial and ecological standpoints.

The recycling process is one that involves quite a lot of resources. Still, various companies are now committed towards pursuing efficient recycling of items like old O2 sensors. Besides investing in what's required for the process, they've also developed a few public awareness programs to enlighten motorists. They also provide communication channels through which people interested in recycling could reach them.

The typical path to recycling will start with a search to uncover the various recycling programs run by the companies. One then has to sign up on their choice of program and obtain a shipping label in their mail. Alternatively, you can get in touch with a regional recycling plant and inquire if they accept such items. Usually, most companies will require that the devices be collected and put in padded shipping packages onto which the mailing label is attached.

You may then receive a card or check for the value of the sent units. Most programs recommend priority mail boxes, with the items enclosed in a strong plastic bag. This should be taped securely before it's placed in the box. All surfaces on the box should be sealed sufficiently to avoid spillage.

Different programs will have their own unique method of calculating payment. The elements commonly used to determine value include type, age and size of sensors sent. These are then considered in light of the prevailing state of demand for platinum. Because all these elements tend to change from time to time, the amount one can get for their shipment will also vary.

That said, you could start a small business by collecting worn out O2 sensors and selling them to recyclers for some money. Whether you're junking your old motor or simply need to replace a worn-out unit, this venture could help you generate some extra cash without taking up too much effort. However, it should be remembered that some of the materials contained in such items pose health risks for humans. As such, only an experienced professional would be well-equipped to safely recover the precious metals.

Recycling is becoming more and more relevant in a world having to deal with the rarity of some raw materials. Selling such items to recyclers therefore goes towards boosting efforts currently being made to achieve sustainability. By selling your units to such a firm, you'll be facilitating safe recovery of the precious metals besides making some extra cash.




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