Critical Raw Materials Hidden in the Products Life Cycle: The Case Study of a Power Supply Unit

Abstract

Critical raw materials (CRMs) are crucial for the production of different products and technologies. The correct quantification of CRMs consumption, including hidden uses along the products life cycle, can be made through the application of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. Starting from the eco-profile of a power supply unit, obtained through a LCA study, this paper focuses on the assessment of the total CRMs consumption of this device. In order to free the assessment from the mass of each CRM, two different approaches are applied, based on the supply risk and economic value, respectively. Similar percentage results are obtained when the assessment is based on the CRMs mass or supply risk index (with some exceptions), while the approach based on the economic value seems more able to bring out materials that are considered more "critical" in terms of economic importance. This research is developed within the activities of the project LOV-Lowering Ortigia's Voltage, funded by POC 2014-2020, CUP G39J18000690007.