Russian scientists improve waste recycling potential with advanced analytical method

Researchers at South Ural State University (SUSU), a partner of TV BRICS, have developed a novel method that allows scientists to determine the composition of materials based on their known chemical elements, identifying both the types of compounds present and their quantities. The innovation is expected to support practical applications in metallurgy and environmental research, reports the university's website.

The project focuses on addressing an important industrial challenge – the processing of dust generated by electric arc steel furnaces, which accumulates in significant volumes during steel production.

According to SUSU specialist Yuri Kapelyushin, such dust often contains zinc, iron and chlorine, and its treatment is traditionally complicated by the presence of toxic components and secondary waste formation. As a result, researchers have been exploring advanced preparation and briquetting approaches to support more efficient use of secondary raw materials in metallurgy.

Within the framework of the project, a theoretical method for determining the phase composition of materials was developed by SUSU professor Aleksander Drozin. The approach shifts the focus from elemental analysis to phase composition, which is considered more relevant for understanding material properties and behaviour in industrial processes.

The method uses mathematical modelling with computational tools to calculate the most probable combination of compounds based on elemental data. The development is applicable across metallurgy, geochemistry, materials production and environmental studies, including the analysis and recycling of steelmaking dust to recover valuable components and reduce environmental impact.