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Q&As since 1989


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School project: what can we do with rusted steel?

I am first year high school student, 12 years old. I am doing an investigatory project on "What we can do with Rusted Steel.". Can rusted steel be recycled?

KYLE D
San Benildo Integrated School - Antipolo City, Philippines
2007

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2007

Yes, Kyle, rusted steel can be recycled. It's basically just melted down, purified, and reused. Your librarian can locate an age-appropriate book about steel recycling for you.

But what is even better than recycling steel, and is a focus of this website, is keeping it from rusting in the first place. It is way more energy efficient and environmentally sound for a car or bike to last 12 years than to have to melt it down after 6 and make a new one -- even if the rust prevention measures like plating and painting consume a little energy and generate a small amount of waste. Good luck with the recycling report.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

May I know how we melt down rusted steel for recycling purposes? Thank you.

KYLE D
San Benildo Integrated School - Antipolo City, Philippines
2007

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I personally feel that you would learn faster, better, and for longer by following the advice I already offered, that you ask your school or town librarian for a book on the subject, Kyle. But for second choice you could go to Wikipedia at en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steel#Recycling. Good luck with your project.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2007