Man recovers 190 grams of gold from discarded SIM cards, goes viral

A man from southern China has sparked widespread attention after revealing how he managed to extract 191.73 grams of gold, valued at over 210,000 yuan (approximately US$30,222), from discarded SIM cards and other electronic waste.

Known online as “Qiao the Hakka Gold Refiner,” the man, based in Guangdong province, shared a detailed video showcasing his gold recovery process, which rapidly gained traction on Chinese social media platforms.

The video quickly went viral, with viewers expressing surprise and curiosity. Many were amazed to learn that everyday electronic items, such as SIM cards, contain gold, a metal commonly used for its conductivity and resistance to corrosion in electronic components.

Some commenters even joked that collecting scrap materials could be more profitable than years of traditional work, while others admitted they had no idea SIM cards held any significant value.

In a follow-up statement, the man clarified that the gold he recovered came from processing nearly two tonnes of electronic waste, not exclusively from discarded SIM cards.

Manufacturers often apply an ultra-thin layer of gold to the contact pins and circuit connections of SIM cards, bank cards, identity cards, and similar devices to enhance performance and durability.

However, experts have raised significant concerns about the extraction process shown in the video. The method relies on highly corrosive chemical reagents that pose serious safety risks to individuals handling them. Moreover if not managed properly, these chemicals could result in environmental contamination.

The man explained that his intention behind the video was not to sensationalise the process, but rather to educate the public about the potential value of electronic waste recycling.

Despite the excitement surrounding his findings, caution is urged when considering the risks involved in such practices.