| Abstract Scope |
In 2024, the aluminum recycling industry faces a critical challenge: to make this activity not only sustainable but also regenerative for the environment. Despite significant advancements in recent decades, the pace of innovation needs to accelerate to address the challenges of climate change.
This study analyzes the technological evolution of aluminum recycling furnaces, from the basic combustion furnaces of the 1930s to emerging technologies such as oxygen burners, electric heating, plasma, and green hydrogen. Each of these solutions presents benefits and challenges in terms of energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and economic viability.
Promising future scenarios are projected, such as the widespread adoption of green hydrogen, advances in plasma technology, and the integration of renewable energies into heating processes. These innovations have the potential to drastically transform the industry towards a more sustainable future. |