Reciclaje Tecnológico al Servicio de la Ciencia

Abstract

This paper is a review of scientific developments achieved from recycled parts of computer technology, more specifically, CD/DVD drives and mice. These elements, which are often discarded causing serious environmental pollution problems, are sophisticated high precision components, and, as they are produced in mass, can be acquired at very low cost. These features make them interesting for scientific research in seeking simplicity, low cost, and miniaturization of equipment (lab on a chip). Microscopes, interferometers, scanners, odometer, manometers, pendulums, encoders, among others, are the applications that have been achieved from the reuse of these elements. Here we present the working principle of these computer parts, the applications they have had since their invention and the prospective application fields as the conclusion of this revision work.