Repurposing electronic waste: unveiling hidden gratings in discarded projectors for innovative x-ray diffraction simulations

Abstract This study introduces a novel approach to enhancing physics education by repurposing discarded projectors as educational tools for simulating x-ray diffraction. The focus is on exploring malfunctioning projectors, particularly the 3 liquid crystal displays technology EPSON model EB-X36, to extract high-temperature poly-silicon thin film transistor-liquid crystal displays for use as two-dimensional gratings. Through a systematic disassembly process, malfunctioning projectors were transformed into educational resources, aligning with the objective of addressing both educational and environmental challenges posed by electronic waste. Additionally, the study investigated the utilization of JD 850 laser pointers for safe and efficient simulation of x-ray diffraction, employing Fraunhofer diffraction principles. Experimental setups were designed to demonstrate practical applications of diffraction concepts, providing students with hands-on experience and enhancing their understanding of diffraction phenomena.