Plastics-villain or hero? Polymers and recycled polymers in mineral and metallurgical processing-a review

Sheila Devasahayam, R. K. Singh Raman, K. Chennakesavulu, Sankar Bhattacharya

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleOtherpeer-review

27 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This review focusses on the use of recycled and virgin polymers in mineral and metallurgical processing, both high and ambient temperature processes, including novel applications. End of life applications of polymers as well as the utilisation of polymers during its life time in various applications are explored. The discussion includes applications in cleaner coal production, iron and steel production, iron ore palletisation, iron alloy manufacturing, manganese processing, E-wastes processing and carbon sequestration. The underlying principles of these applications are also explained. Advantages and disadvantages of using these polymers in terms of energy and emission reductions, reduction in non-renewables and dematerialisation are discussed. Influence of the polymers on controlling the evolution of micro and nanostructures in alloys and advanced materials is also considered.

Original languageEnglish
Article number655
Number of pages36
JournalMaterials
Volume12
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 21 Feb 2019

Keywords

  • Ambient palletisation
  • Carbon sequestration
  • Clean coal
  • Emission and energy reductions
  • High temperature processing
  • Iron and steel industries
  • Recycled polymers
  • Silicones
  • Super absorbent polymers
  • Thermoplastics
  • Thermosets
  • Virgin polymers

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