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I learned recently that mirror is mostly manufactured by pouring thin metal coating (i.e alumunium) on top of a substrate surface (i.e glass),

Due to the nature of this composition it cannot be easily disposed. I searched everywhere on how to recycle mirror and it always end up suggesting to recycle it physically (i.e artwork props etc.).

Assuming on industrial level mirror waste, how its getting recycled? I found no machine in market to do so.

My first thought will be separating the two in heat since both have different melting point, however not sure.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

Transistor
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gardin
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1 Answers1

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The weight of aluminum is very small compared to the weight of glass , presumably primarily silicate . And aluminum oxide mixes very well with silicates so there is no reason to separate them . They cannot be separated by melting . The 0.001 " thick layer of aluminum will be completely oxidized before it melts . Clearly the cost of vacuum melting is prohibitive.

blacksmith37
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