At eLoop, our mission has always been about more than recycling electronics—we’re building a smarter, cleaner, and more secure future. As Pennsylvania’s leading provider of IT asset disposition (ITAD) and e-waste recycling services, we help businesses retire their technology responsibly while protecting data, complying with regulations, and supporting a circular economy.
But as devices evolve, so do the challenges. Flat-screen TVs and monitors, in particular, have become one of the fastest-growing—and most difficult—types of e-waste to manage. They’re costly to disassemble by hand, and they often contain materials that are difficult to recover through conventional means.
That’s why eLoop took the lead in creating a solution—by founding roboLoop, a robotics-powered sister company dedicated to automating and modernizing the recycling of flat panel displays.
From eLoop’s Vision to roboLoop’s Innovation
roboLoop is more than just a high-tech experiment—it’s the direct result of eLoop’s commitment to innovation and our determination to solve real industry challenges. Co-founded by eLoop CEO Ned Eldridge, Carnegie Mellon University’s Matt Travers, and Automap CEO Scott Thayer, roboLoop combines cutting-edge robotics with the real-world experience that only a recycler like eLoop can provide.
The idea began when eLoop started reimagining operations at our State College facility during the COVID-19 pandemic. With increased volumes and limited labor, we saw robotics not just as a novelty—but as a strategic necessity. Our partnership with Travers, a senior systems scientist at CMU’s Robotics Institute, made that vision a reality.
Faster, Smarter, and Cleaner Recycling
Traditionally, it takes about 15 minutes for a person to manually disassemble a flat-screen TV using a screw gun. With roboLoop’s AI-powered robots, that time drops to under 5 minutes, with the goal of reaching just 2 minutes per unit.
The robot uses machine learning models—originally developed through a research partnership with Apple—to identify the device brand and predict screw locations. Then, using a modified pneumatic nail gun, it “punches” out screws to rapidly remove back panels and extract valuable components like circuit boards and aluminum.
And this isn’t happening in theory—it’s happening inside a facility built, operated, and previously owned by eLoop, where our operations, infrastructure, and deep industry knowledge are guiding roboLoop’s development every day.
Scaling Responsibly and Sustainably
Thanks to eLoop’s leadership and roboLoop’s technology, the State College facility is scaling up fast. Processing volumes are expected to rise from 200,000 to 500,000 pounds per month, with a target of 4.2 million pounds by the end of 2025.
But automation doesn’t mean job loss. In fact, eLoop is transforming roles—moving employees from repetitive disassembly tasks into robot support, quality control, and system development. We’ve also implemented a new rotating shift structure to support 12-hour robot operation without overworking our team.
It’s a more productive system—and a more rewarding one for our people.
Maximizing Value, Minimizing Waste
Shredding is the traditional fallback in electronics recycling—but it often leads to contaminated materials and missed opportunities for recovery. By contrast, roboLoop’s process, anchored in eLoop’s operational expertise, yields clean, separated commodity streams that are easier to sell, reuse, and recycle.
We’re also tackling the e-plastics challenge head-on. With support from local engineers, roboLoop is testing a system to identify plastic types during disassembly, enabling more precise sorting and opening the door to new revenue streams in the plastics industry.
Built for the Region. Ready for the World.
Our State College facility is strategically located within 300 miles of over 20% of the U.S. population. Combined with regional extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, that means eLoop is positioned to collect and process millions of pounds of electronics annually—starting with flat panels, and expanding from there.
As a trusted recycler with years of experience, eLoop ensures the security, compliance, and environmental responsibility our customers count on. roboLoop builds on that foundation to push the boundaries of what’s possible—making Pennsylvania a national leader in smart, sustainable recycling.
What’s Next
roboLoop will continue to improve robot speed, accuracy, and capabilities. Licensing and expansion are on the horizon. But no matter how far the robotics go, eLoop remains the operational core, ensuring that innovation stays grounded in real-world impact.
We’re not just keeping up with the future—we’re building it.
Let’s Talk About Your Recycling Goals
If your organization is looking for an e-Stewards certified partner that blends trusted service with next-generation innovation, eLoop is here to help.
Together, we can turn today’s e-waste into tomorrow’s opportunity—efficiently, securely, and sustainably.
