Metodologia de análise química e técnicas de metalografia na reciclagem da lata de alumínio

Abstract

Aluminum is a versatile metal and has remarkable characteristics, such as good appearance, corrosion resistance and low density, used in several applications such as civil construction, transport and packaging. The use of primary aluminum extracted from mineral resources is still expressive, but due to its high recyclability, low loss of physical-chemical properties and reduced energy consumption, the recycling process is fundamental for economy and sustainability. Thus, beverage cans play a key role in this market, since a can goes through the entire cycle of processing, consumption, disposal, and recycling in just a few months. Although aluminum can recycling has great relevance, there are few experimental studies that relate chemical and metallographic control methods of smelting parameters in aluminum recycling recovery. In this context, the objective of the present work is the bibliographical research of the techniques of chemical and metallographic analysis carried out during the recycling process of aluminum cans and the elaboration of a technical apostille aimed in higher education. The results were obtained from the consultation of national (ABNT) and international (ASTM) technical standards, technical books from ASM's Metals Handbook collection, and specific articles available in CAPES journals. It approaches the evaluation of the alloys that compose the aluminum can, through the analysis of the chemical composition by Optical Emission Spectroscopy and the microstructural analysis of the metallic alloy, using metallographic techniques. The summary of these best practices was made available in a apostille, with the aim of application and use in higher education. The proposed theme is of great importance for the development of professional and academic knowledge in quality control in the recycling of aluminum beverage cans.