Manufacture of Materials

Materials, which are essential to our society, are typically produced from raw materials extracted from the earth. The manufacture of these materials is characterised by the relatively large-scale and high-energy intensity. Here, we concentrate on a range of industries employing electrochemical processes (such as the production of aluminium and copper), high-temperature processes (such as the production of titanium, silicon, and glass), and low/medium temperatures (such as paper) as examples of these types of industries. We describe the typical production process for these materials with their energy requirement and carbon emissions. Possible recycle of these materials is discussed, considering an expanding market. Furthermore, possible ways to make these processes more sustainable are discussed.