Scrap metals are those that you can recycle.
As opposed to "waste" or "garbage", "scrap" is something that can be turned back into a useful object. Almost all types of metals can be recycled. Metals can be heated up, melted down, and reused over and over without any loss of their structure or hardness. The average Coke can have atoms that may have been recycled thousands of times!
Let's review common types of scrap metal.
Types of Metals That Can Be Recycled :
Scrap metals are everywhere. You probably don't even notice them anymore because they're so integrated into your life.
Scrap metal prices are constantly changing but some people are able to make money by turning in old cans and bits of metal.
Here are the most common scrap metals.
Aluminum :
This atomic metal is usually silvery and lightweight, although it's often infused with color right on the metal. It's used in consumer food and beverage cans.
Copper :
This atomic material is used in pipes and wires. It's also contained in pennies, especially older ones. It turns green when it tarnishes from exposure to oxygen. It's generally soft and malleable.
Bronze or Brass :
A type of copper alloyed [mixed] with tin and zinc. It's a darkish gold color and very hard.
Cast Iron :
This is the atomic metal of the type of iron that rusts. It is commonly used in cooking instruments like frying pans. Some older yard fencing is made with cast iron, but it's rarely used for this purpose anymore.
Steel :
Steel is what happens when you mix iron with carbon [coal]. It's super hard, durable, doesn't corrode and is used almost everywhere, including vehicles.
It's the most common durable construction material used in commercial "rebar". It's also used in "tin" cans, metal packaging. Most steels can be recycled.
Additional Recyclable Metals :
As technology grows, the types of metals that can be recycled are growing as well.
Electronic Waste or "E-waste" :
Anything that contains, or could possibly contain mercury or lead will be considered "e-waste" and it can be recycled as well.
There is a huge and growing demand for consumer electronics, which often contain very small parts with trace amounts of highly volatile chemicals. E-waste can include T.V.s, computers, laptops, hard drives, wires, plugs, telephones, circuit boards, and Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs).
Batteries :
Batteries are little chemical factories that often contain heavy metals and other materials that are perfect for recycling.
Most states and cities have rules and regulations concerning the recycling of batteries. Many national chains such as Home Depot and Sears have battery recycling programs where you can drop these materials off. The biggest recycler of batteries is the Call
Silicon-dioxide (glass) :
This is a material that is completely recyclable. Silicon is neither a metal or a non-metal but is classified as a "metalloid".
When mixed with oxygen, it is a common material found all over the Earth in the form of sea sand. Sand is melted down to become glass, which can be recycled, and is recycled, everywhere.
Keep Learning :
Now that you know all about scrap metals, you can use the information to make some extra money.
If you want more helpful information, browse through our technology blog.
