Application of pulsed power generated high power ultrasound to waste comminution and the recovery of metals

The disposal of waste materials is an increasing burden on industry across the world. In order to address this problem, the development of viable technologies and recycling paths is required. Often it is necessary to process waste to reduce its size (comminution) or to allow the recovery of high value components entrapped in waste. This paper describes the application of high power ultrasound (HPU), generated using pulsed power techniques, to two waste products: glass and stainless steel slag.