Virtually all metals can be recycled into high quality new metals, as the properties do not diminish during the recycling process. The most frequently recycled metals are aluminum, brass, bronze, cast iron, copper, steel and tin.
Metal recycling of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals has many benefits. It is beneficial for the environment, when recycling it means less extraction of raw materials is required which helps to reduce carbon emissions.
You can also make money for scrap metal; many companies will buy and recycle your unwanted metal, including GP Metals who offer the best possible prices for metal recycling.
Non-recyclable Metals
There aren’t many non-recyclable metals, however when you recycle your unwanted metal you should be aware of the restrictions.
The most common types of metal which cannot be recycled are those which have radioactive properties such as uranium and plutonium, but these aren’t commonly found in household items so this should not be a huge concern. Additionally, metals containing mercury and lead are also non-recyclable.
Whilst precious metals are recyclable; you will most likely want to keep items your items made from gold, silver or platinum. Our advice is to be careful not to accidentally disregard any precious metal items.
Browse our website to learn which scrap metal GP Metals and Spares recycle, including the current market estimates and where you might find such metals.
What Can Metal Be Recycled Into?
After scrap metal is recycled there are many different potential uses. Much of the scrap metal recycled in the UK is manufactured into completely new items such as automobiles, aircraft, home appliances and industrial building materials.
Because the properties of metal do not change when recycled it is common to find recycled metals within household products, packaging and architectural structures. Who knows, the metal you recycle may return to your house as a home furnishing, fixtures or contemporary artwork.
If you have scrap metal, or a scrap car at the end of its life, recycle it to allow a new lifecycle to begin.
Scrap My Car
One of the most frequent sources of scrap metal comes from vehicles and cars. Do you have a scrap car or written off vehicle? You can receive a cash payment from GP Metals and Spares.
To find out how much your scrap car is worth simply use our quotation tool which provides you a real-time price based on your registration number.
We always pay cash for your unwanted scrap metal and cars. Following our simple 4-step process you can make money hassle free. Simply get in touch with a friendly team member, providing the vehicle details and pick-up location and we will take care of the rest.
For any general questions please visit our FAQ section or contact us with any questions and requirements. We are proud to provide a service tailored to your needs.
FAQs
Metals, such as aluminum, steel, brass, iron, and copper can be reused over and over again, reducing the amount of waste produced.
What metals Cannot be recycled? ›
What metal cannot be recycled? Among the metals that cannot be recycled are radioactive metals like Uranium and Plutonium, and the toxic ones like Mercury and lead. Even though you're unlikely to encounter materials from the first category, Mercury and lead are more common and are often used in everyday items.
Which of the following metal Cannot be recycled? ›
These include radioactive metals, mercury, contaminated cans, household equipment that contains harmful toxins, and unclean metals. Radioactive metals such as uranium, plutonium, and radon cannot be recycled because the process of recycling these metals can expose workers to radiation.
What metals are difficult to recycle? ›
Unfortunately, this isn't the case for all metals. Not all metals can be recycled, usually because they're radioactive or toxic, meaning they are too hazardous to be recycled. Two examples of metals that can't and shouldn't be recycled are lead and mercury.
Which metal is 100% recyclable? ›
After all, steel is 100% recyclable, without any loss of quality. Every ton of steel produced today will sooner or later be recycled. A welfare economy needs steel for, among other things, infrastructure, transport, and domestic appliances.
What is the most valuable metal to recycle? ›
Copper. Copper is one of the most valuable scrap items. Most scrap dealers will buy copper at a high price because it consistently generates high value. Its versatility and high demand also make it a top consideration if you want to make a lot of money from scrapping.
What is the difference between recycled metal and reused metal? ›
Recycling is when you take an item's materials and reprocess them to be used elsewhere. This cuts down waste and ensures useful resources are converted into new products, rather than being wasted after a single use. Reusing, on the other hand, is about repurposing items and products for extended use.
Can rusty metal go in the recycle bin? ›
In most cases, metals that are damaged or have rust can still be recycled as usual. One factor to keep in mind is that the total value of your scrap is determined by weight. If the metal is rusted, it will likely weigh less than non-rusted scrap of the same size.
Can rusty tins be recycled? ›
Metal can be recycled even if it is rusty. All you have to do is take the metal to your local scrap yard, and the rest will be taken care of. Scrap yards are often your best bet because they have no problem accepting rusty metals.
Which metal can not be recycled? ›
The most common types of metal which cannot be recycled are those which have radioactive properties such as uranium and plutonium, but these aren't commonly found in household items so this should not be a huge concern. Additionally, metals containing mercury and lead are also non-recyclable.
In summary, aluminum steel and copper are the most commonly recycled metals and the recycling process usually uses significantly less energy than extraction from their ores.
What is an example of a material that Cannot be recycled? ›
Paper towels, napkins, paper plates, and tissues are all paper products but unlike most paper items, they cannot be recycled. Just like pizza boxes, these items come in contact with food wastes, greases, and possibly bodily fluids, and are hard to "clean" during the recycling process.
Which minerals cannot be recycled? ›
1. Minerals that can not be recycled are those minerals that can be used exhaustively and completely . 2. These include the energy from fossil fuels like coal , oil and natural gas.
Which metal Cannot be recycled infinitely? ›
The two main metals that can't be recycled are Uranium and Plutonium. Since they're radioactive, they're harmful to us and not suitable for recycling.
What 3 metals can be recycled? ›
Aluminum, steel, copper, brass, bronze, silver, and gold are all types of metals that can be recycled. Recycling metal helps reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills, and it also helps conserve natural resources.
Can metal be 100% recycled? ›
Steel is the most recycled material on the earth, thanks to its status as an incredibly tough metal that is 100% recyclable. Used across many vital industries, from construction to manufacturing, recycled steel is responsible for many of our vital infrastructures.
