- Critical Raw Materials
- New valorization pathways
- Waste classification
- Waste Minimization strategies
The generation of waste is one of the environmental and operational challenges facing industry. Reducing waste generation, finding alternatives for its valorization and minimizing waste disposal require solutions tailored to the characteristics of each material and the needs of industrial processes.
At the same time, certain waste streams and by-products can be a source of recoverable materials, including metals of strategic interest and Critical Raw Materials (CRMs). Recovering these materials and reintegrating them into new processes helps preserve their value and reduce dependence on primary raw materials.
At AZTERLAN, we research and develop solutions to improve industrial waste management, optimise valorisation processes and explore new ways to recover and make use of materials.
We work with processes and materials to reduce waste and its hazardous properties, optimize resource use, replace raw materials with more sustainable alternatives, and extend the service life of materials and components.
We study the composition, properties and hazardous characteristics of waste to determine its potential for treatment, separation, reuse or valorization.
We develop and evaluate alternative processes to recover valuable materials from industrial waste and by-products, enabling their reuse in new applications.
We investigate new ways to incorporate recovered materials into new products and processes, assessing their properties, durability and suitability for the intended application.
AZTERLAN combines metallurgical expertise with capabilities in characterisation, material development and process optimisation to address specific industrial waste management challenges.
- Waste generation assessments, sampling and characterization.
- Pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes for the valorization of metal oxides and critical materials.
- Recycling and reuse processes using physical, chemical, and thermal treatments under dry and wet conditions, as well as the most suitable combinations thereof.
- Recovery and valorization of high-value alloys (upcycling).
- Recycling and reuse of alloys, refractories, spent foundry sands and other materials.
- Industrial application of secondary materials obtained from ferrous metallurgical waste.
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), process optimization and eco-design to prevent waste and improve product recyclability.
- Solutions tailored to specific waste streams.
- Strategies to improve component durability and service life, including enhanced resistance to corrosion, fatigue and wear.
“Metal-mechanical companies must comply with highly demanding environmental requirements. The consumption of raw materials and energy, the management of industrial waste, controlling the emisions that can affect air quality and health and the life-cycle of their products are some core issues.
AZTERLAN collaborates with the industry by developing innovative solutions that help the industry evolve towards a greener and more sustainable consumption, management and manufacturing model.”
