Recycling refractories for steelmaking processes

Abstract

The objectives and effects of refractory materials recycling, as well as the potential industries from which waste refractories suitable for recycling can be collected, will be discussed in this paper. After the end of its service life, the refractory material is usually disposed of at industrial landfills or recycled. The main motive for the reuse of refractories is the sustainable conservation of natural resources and environmental protection by reducing CO2 emissions and industrial landfills, reducing landfill costs and users’ costs. The effects achieved by refractory materials recycling are the cost savings of raw materials and disposal, the improvement of the environment, the product line expansion, and consequently the opportunities for products' placement in hitherto unknown and inaccessible markets, as well as closer cooperation between users and suppliers. Respecting recycling policies brings us closer to the concept of zero waste.