Aluminium is abundant
Aluminium is the third most abundant element in the earth’s crust, after oxygen and silicon. There is, in other words, more aluminum than iron in this world, and our resources will last us for generations with today’s aluminium consumption.
Aluminium is lightweight
A piece in aluminium weighs only one-third of one in steel (2.7 g/cm3). In addition to making it easier to handle in a factory or on a building site, aluminium’s low weight also translates into reduced energy consumption during transportation, making aluminium not just a lightweight and versatile choice of material, but also an economically viable one.
Aluminium keeps food fresh
Aluminium foil reflects both heat and light and is completely impermeable, which means no taste, aroma or light gets in or out. This trait makes it perfect for food preservation and it’s already widely used in the food industry and private households alike. Efficient food conservation also leads to less waste.
Aluminium is easy to form
Aluminium is very ductile, and it may be shaped into everything from bicycle frames and boat hulls to computer cases and kitchen utensils. It’s easy to process in both cold and hot condition, and we can also create different alloys. Aluminium alloys are usually used to enhance aluminium’s properties for specific engineering structures and components where light weight or corrosion resistance are important. The most common elements used in aluminium alloys are magnesium, silicon, manganese, zinc and copper. Aluminium thus offers complete design freedom and is suitable for a wide range of uses.
Aluminium is a great reflector
Aluminium reflects both heat and light, trapping warmth and cold under its cover, making it ideal for both food preservation and emergency blankets. And light fittings, mirrors, chocolate wrappers, window frames and a whole lot of other uses. Also, the high energy efficiency in reflectors reduces energy consumption, adding to aluminium’s superiority over most metals.
Aluminium is low-maintenance
Aluminium reacts with the oxygen in the air, forming a protective oxide coating that makes it corrosion resistant. This means less maintenance and replacements compared to metals like iron or steel. Reduced maintenance and less need for replacements are good news for both the environment and the overall budget of any project.
Aluminium is infinitely recyclable
Few materials are as easily recycled as aluminium. It requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce the initial primary metal to recycle it. In fact, 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use.
Updated: 23 May 2024