Silver Surge Sparks CT Film Recycling Frenzy: Couple Sentenced for Illegal Refining

Driven by a surge in international silver prices, the recycling market for medical waste silver-containing CT films has heated up since December 2025. These films are valuable due to their silver content, but not all medical films contain silver.

Data shows that the recycling price per pound (≈12 sheets) of silver-containing CT films jumped from around 10 RMB to 35 RMB, an increase of 250%. Priced individually, a single sheet rose from a few cents to about 2 RMB, significantly increasing profit margins.

However, silver extraction carries legal and environmental risks. Using chemical solvents or open fire to extract silver from waste films without authorization not only pollutes the environment but also violates the law.

Previously, a couple illegally acquired waste plates from printing factories and hospital CT films, earning over 500,000 RMB through crude extraction methods. They refined 27 pounds of silver, earning 60,000 RMB. During the trial, one participant died, terminating part of the case; the remaining two received suspended sentences and fines totaling 70,000 RMB.

Several cases in China highlight that individuals attempting illegal precious metal refining face legal consequences. The public is warned not to engage in such activities.