Practical guidance for the sustainable management of aluminium dross across the value chain.
Aluminium dross is an unavoidable by-product of primary and secondary aluminium production. While its formation cannot be eliminated, effective operational practices, appropriate processing technologies and robust management systems can help reduce metal losses, improve aluminium recovery and minimise environmental impacts.
Developed by SINTEF for the International Aluminium Institute (IAI), this guidance provides a comprehensive overview of aluminium dross generation, handling, cooling, processing and recovery. It also addresses safety, transport and regulatory considerations, as well as opportunities to improve resource efficiency and circularity through the recovery of aluminium and beneficial use of non-metallic residues.
The guidance emphasises an integrated approach to dross management: reducing formation at source, preserving metal value through effective handling and cooling, selecting appropriate recovery technologies, managing safety and compliance risks, and identifying viable pathways for residue utilisation.
A companion slide deck is also available, distilling the key findings and recommendations into a concise, practical framework for aluminium producers, recyclers and dross processors.
