This unit provides an introduction to the political, social and environment background to materials recycling and looks at motivations for recycling. Major technologies relating to the recycling of metals, plastics, glass, paper and ceramic materials are discussed: involving looking at the choice between materials reclamation, energy recovery and landfill. It considers the economics of materials production, as well as 'cradle-to-grave' analyses of materials including products and by-products of the nuclear fuel cycle. In particular it looks at life-cycle analysis techniques. Market failure in the economics of the environment and the role of externalities and their remedies are covered. -- Course Website
Instructor: G Simon
Prerequisites: ENE2503 or MTE2541 or MSC2011
