Each of us uses devices whose raw materials were originally extracted as rock from the depths of the earth. However, these raw materials are finite and the extraction of new raw materials requires a great deal of energy. Modern recycling methods, on the other hand, have the potential to require only a fraction of this energy and use raw materials that have already been extracted and initially processed. Gamechanger?!
Recycling makes it possible to return products to the raw material cycle at the end of their primary service life. In view of the increasing demands on environmental protection and in times of climate change, we are aware that the process of recycling must also become more established in our products. For this reason, we already have a recycling rate of up to 90% for some of our products.
In order to better understand the use of raw materials in our processes, it is important to know the different classifications of COFERMIN raw materials.
- Primary raw materials: From primary production
- Secondary raw materials: Reprocessed or recycled
- By-products: Products that are used or generated for the production of other products
The classifications show that the use of recycled raw materials is not always possible, taking quality into account. Specified products often require the classified primary raw materials, as recycled materials do not achieve the necessary efficiency levels due to their nature. This means that the use of secondary raw materials is only possible to a limited extent in certain industries. However, this aspect does not mean that the same raw materials cannot be used extensively in other areas.
A good example of the successful use of secondary raw materials is Mine Feuerfest. The colleagues use 93% recycled materials in their production. In addition to Mine Feuerfest, other subsidiaries of the COFERMIN Group also rely on recycled materials and thus contribute to a more sustainable circular economy: IMagine by COFERMIN, which sells an iron hydroxide made from recycled raw materials as a product, should also be mentioned here. COFERMIN Rohstoffe also relies on the integration of recycled raw materials in the production of Silica Fume. Silica fume is used in the construction industry to improve the quality of concrete. This shows that it is perfectly possible to use high proportions of recycled raw materials without compromising on the quality or performance of the products.
In addition to the use of recycled raw materials, we at COFERMIN Rohstoffe and EEG are committed to supplying waste and by-products directly to the recycling industry, where they are reintegrated into the raw material cycle. And yes; this is how we actively contribute to reducing the need for primary raw materials and making the resource cycle more efficient.
Are you also interested in sustainable raw material solutions?
Get in touch with us!
Jan Freynik
Sales & Marketing Manager