Using ResourcesDiagram
Energy Comparison: Recycling vs. Virgin Production
Part of Recycling — GCSE Chemistry
This diagram covers Energy Comparison: Recycling vs. Virgin Production within Recycling for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Recycling in Using Resources for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 14 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 6 of 20 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.
Topic position
Section 6 of 20
Practice
20 questions
Recall
14 flashcards
Energy Comparison: Recycling vs. Virgin Production
Aluminum - The Recycling Champion
- Virgin production: 15-17 kWh per kg (bauxite mining, smelting, refining)
- Recycling: 0.7 kWh per kg (95% energy savings)
- Process difference: No need for electrolytic extraction from alumina
- Quality: Recycled aluminum identical to virgin aluminum
Steel Recycling
- Virgin production: Iron ore → blast furnace → steel (very energy intensive)
- Recycling: Electric arc furnace melting (60% energy savings)
- Magnetic properties: Easy separation from mixed waste
- Quality: Can be recycled indefinitely
Plastic Recycling Challenges
- Thermoplastics: Can be melted and reformed (recyclable)
- Thermosets: Cannot be remelted (not traditionally recyclable)
- Contamination: Food residue, adhesives affect recycling quality
- Degradation: Properties may decline with each recycling cycle