Supporting disassembly processes through simulation tools: A systematic literature review with a focus on printed circuit boards

Several strategies have been detected in the extant literature to understand how Circular Economy (CE) can be pursued. Considering all End-of-Life (EoL) management practices detected, disassembly processes identified as strategic. However, only scattered attempts explored digital technologies (specifically, simulation) support CE adoption, by focusing on processes. This research detects, through a systematic review, so far simulation approaches proposed and applied foster process with focus Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). At this purpose, main roles played ease process, also of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies, detected. Based results obtained, two (Sequence planning optimization Training) seem most interesting from twofold CE/I4.0 perspective, combining up date traditional approaches. Discussed deeper sector-independent way, provide directions about lifecycle phases simulations, involved, both final purpose type approach adopted. Finally, gaps needing for further contributions, raised adoption Digitized Disassembly, are listed, employed cope them, Virtual/Augmented Disassembly-oriented Simulation provided guide those who want hybrid simulation/disassembly context.