Removal of Paint Impurities from Magnesium Alloy Scraps by Super-heated Steam Treatment

Abstract

Demand for magnesium alloy parts is expected to increase because of its low density and high specific strength. However, recycling technique for post-consumer magnesium alloy scraps has not been established yet. In particular, low-cost processing for the removal of organic impurities used for painting is needed. In this study, super-heated steam (SHS) treatment was examined as a new technique to remove paint impurities from post-consumer magnesium alloy scraps. As the result, it was found that most of the impurities were easily removed after SHS treatment of 400~410°C and simple mechanical friction.