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Revitalising Metallic Materials: A Path towards a Sustainable Circular Economy

Author

Listed:
  • Farhan Ashraf

    (Interdisciplinary Research Centre for Advanced Materials, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia)

  • Arijit Lodh

    (School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK)

  • Emanuele Pagone

    (School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK)

  • Gustavo M. Castelluccio

    (School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK)

Abstract

Improving materials’ productivity and reusability can advance circularity by reducing extraction and enabling efficient fully recyclable parts and systems. However, the pursuit of circular materials often focuses on the choice among reusing, repairing, or recycling materials, with limited consideration for techniques that can proactively revitalise materials. Consequently, the adoption of preventive material therapies remain relatively scarce and unexplored. This work discusses the potential for revitalising metallic materials with preventive maintenance prior to detectable damage and we identify techniques that can effectively prolong the structural lifespan of metallic components. By analysing the literature and considering the eco-footprint and implementation feasibility within the aerospace sector, this study ranks approaches based on their circularity impact and provides valuable insights to guide future research in the field of materials maintenance.

Suggested Citation

  • Farhan Ashraf & Arijit Lodh & Emanuele Pagone & Gustavo M. Castelluccio, 2023. "Revitalising Metallic Materials: A Path towards a Sustainable Circular Economy," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(15), pages 1-17, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:15:p:11675-:d:1205280
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Johnson, Jeremiah & Reck, B.K. & Wang, T. & Graedel, T.E., 2008. "The energy benefit of stainless steel recycling," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 36(1), pages 181-192, January.
    2. Dierk Raabe & C. Cem Tasan & Elsa A. Olivetti, 2019. "Strategies for improving the sustainability of structural metals," Nature, Nature, vol. 575(7781), pages 64-74, November.
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