Opportunities of AI and ICME in Metals Recycling, Production and Processing

The rapid penetration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and all related developments of the fourth industrial revolution is paving the way for a more sophisticated production sequence that strives for higher quality, lower emissions and lower cost production. This work reviews and discusses these developments and correlates them with state-of-the-art changes in materials engineering. We highlight penetration paradigms of modern computation tools. These technologies sound very promising in terms of maximizing the production efficiency of modern industries and, thus, minimizing the required energy input, greenhouse gas emissions and leading the way to a more ecofriendly economy.

Recycling

Metals recycling and its key features is defined. Important principles and strategies are considered. Scrap, its sources and characteristics and variation, is investigated in some detail, highlighted with some examples. The unit processes in recycling—collection, shredding, sorting, pretreatment, blending, and processing of final residues—are described. How selecting methods in various process routes impact the recycling is an important message. Three examples of recycling are discussed in detail: magnesium, dross, and batteries. Limits and opportunities are commented on at the end.