Europe’s 6.8% dross generation from aluminium recycling reflects global standard- how the continent is scaling its recovery efforts

Did you know? Around 7 per cent of black dross is generated from the total volume of recycled aluminium worldwide, and Europe reflects a similar ratio of black dross generation at around 6.83 per cent.

Aluminium dross occurs in two forms: black and white. White dross is generated mainly in primary aluminium smelters and during the melting of clean or pre-treated scrap in foundries. It forms when molten aluminium reacts with oxygen during smelting, refining, or casting, creating a residue with relatively high aluminium content.

Black dross, by contrast, forms during recycling, particularly where mixed or contaminated scrap is melted. Coatings, oils, and other impurities increase oxidation and slag formation, producing a darker residue with lower aluminium content.

On a global scale, dross generation reflects broader production trends. Europe accounts for around 14 per cent of total output, compared with 64 per cent in the Asia Pacific region, including China, and 13 per cent in North America. With aluminium usage continuing to expand, dross generation is projected to grow at a steady rate of 3 – 4 per cent annually, reinforcing its growing relevance across the industry.