Recycling steelmill byproducts – some practical developments and outstanding issues

Abstract

Significant quantities of byproducts are generated during the production of iron and steel. Slag is usually the largest in terms of volume but a range of particulate materials are recovered from the pollution control systems. Some steelmill byproducts have been recycled or recovered for many years but changes in the technologies employed, material specifications and environmental legislation means that new issues must be addressed. Examples of practical methods for handling steelmill byproducts for internal recycling or external applications are reviewed. Impurities in the inputs to the steelmaking process mean that it is impossible to recycle all the byproducts generated. However, by careful management it is possible to convert these byproducts into forms that can be utilised in other industries. The challenge to the industry and the legislators is to establish conditions that promote development work that will continue to identify methods of treating or utilising steelmaking byproducts – and thus to continue to enhance the sustainability of the industry.