Computer Rams Scrap

The computer RAM scrap market in 2026 is experiencing a "premium commodity" phase, driven by high precious metal recovery yields and a global shortage in new memory modules ScrapmonsterAlibaba. Unlike generic e-waste, RAM modules are valued for their extreme gold density; one ton of RAM scrap can yield more gold than 10 tons of high-grade mined ore Scrapmonster.

Market Trends & Pricing (2026)

* Pricing: Gold-plated RAM (Green/Black sticks) is currently trading between $10.00 – $14.00 per lb in major markets like the US Scrapmonster. Prices have seen a 20-30% spike due to the 2026 silicon shortage, which has increased competition among refiners for secondary materials FacebookInstagram.

* Shift to Circularity: There is a growing trend of "ITAD" (IT Asset Disposition) firms prioritizing refurbishment over shredding. Working DDR4 and DDR5 modules now carry a significant premium for reuse in enterprise systems AlibabaAlibaba.

* Advanced Recovery: Recycling facilities are increasingly adopting AI and robotics to sort modules by generation (DDR2 vs DDR4) to optimize gold recovery yields, as older modules typically have thicker gold plating CoherentmarketinsightsAlibaba.

Recovery Insights by Category

Sourcing & Supplier Analysis

I have identified several global wholesalers and recycling equipment manufacturers specializing in bulk RAM processing and gold recovery systems.

Key products available for bulk sourcing include mixed DDR lots for recycling and high-grade RAM trimmings for precious metal extraction.

The full list of 68 products and specialized 47 suppliers (including major facilities in France, China, and Thailand) can be found in the attached files. Detailed benchmarks for recovery yields and pricing tiers are included in the reports.