Metal Recycling in Thin Film Coating (Spent Sputtering Targets)

Sputtering (sputter deposition) is a technique of thin film deposition widely used across industries to create thin films of excellent uniformity, density, purity and adhesions over different surfaces. The process involves ejecting atoms from a target or source material which is to be deposited on a substrate.

Sputtering targets (the source of the plating material that is used) are critical in sputter deposition and most sputtering target materials are metallic elements or alloys. Ideally the target should be completely spent after the sputtering process. However, the process is not 100% efficient. On every spent sputtering target, often time there will be valuable metals left unused. Spent sputtering targets can no longer facilitate production and it is expensive and difficult to reclaim the valuable metals.

As most used sputtering targets contain leftover valuable metal, they are worth preserving and recycling. It takes the right metal knowledge and technology to properly handle and process spent sputtering targets to ensure the maximum value is reclaimed. Globe Metal is a global leader and expert in metal recycling, and we have ample experience in recycling used sputtering targets. We understand the importance and values of rare metals to different industries (e.g. aerospace, semiconductor, display manufacturing, etc.). Thus we ensure the valuable metals remain useful through our recycling programs and only the superior quality minor and primary metals, ferroalloys, high temperature alloys and specialty steels are put back to the economy.  Globe Metal is ISO certified and we provide recycling documentation upon request.

The value of spent sputtering targets varies depending on the value of the metal used as platings, the presence of secondary metals and their quantities. To ensure you are getting the right worth of your used targets, send you materials to a qualified metals recycler like Globe Metal for testing.

Standard procedures:

1. Understand client’s material through photos, analysis or testing;
2. Globe Metal submits pricing quote – based on different recycling options;
3. Material is picked up from client’s facility, sorted, cleaned, and processed;
4. Globe Metal distributes metals for recycling through an international network providing proof of destruction or recycling certificates

For questions relating to any metal, or to enquire about how your company could benefit from our profitable recycling program, please reach out to an expert at 1-800-700-6382 or sales@globemetal.com.

Globe Metal is a proud member of Minor Metals Trade Association and Mining Suppliers Trade Association Canada.