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From the Primary Metallurgical Works to the Recycler

Ruhr-Zink has continuously increased the share of secondary raw materials in the production process during recent years. For that purpose, we have made considerable investment in new process technology, so that today we produce more than one third of our zinc from recycled material. More than 10 years ago we had already obtained appropriate patents for that.

As a future-oriented company that occupies itself with demanding production processes, we know what responsibility means. Therefore we are investing out of conviction in efficient processes, environmental protection and protection of labour.

By recycling we actively contribute to short substance cycles. A way of acting that sustainably reduces costs and conserves energy and resources and contributes to a future worth living. This we also understand as being part of modern zinc production.


Waelz Oxide as a Secondary Raw Material

Ruhrzink has, besides the roasted product lixiviation, a process chain for the use of Waelz oxides. These Waelz oxides are concentrated steel mill dusts obtained during the use of scrap containing zinc. Due to this possible use, a further cycle in zinc recycling is closed. The percentage in zinc production resulting from this use of secondary material is roughly 45 %.


Closed Substance Flows

The substances accumulating in the lixiviation process such as copper concentrate and lead/silver concentrate are used in the appropriate non-ferrous metal works for the production of copper, lead and silver. Here, too, the cycles for the non-residue treatment of the input materials at RuhrZink are closed.


Sulphuric Acid Cycle

Due to the possibility of the acceptance of spent acid (weak acid from battery recycling) for use in the electrolytic process, RuhrZink can close further cycles in substance recycling.


 


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