In today’s world, the environmental impact of everything we do is under scrutiny. It can be hard to feel like you can make a difference. But the truth is, it’s easier than you think. Making a “greener” decision can be as easy as doing a little research. Anodized aluminum, for example, is a great choice compared to paint or another coating when it comes to the environment. This, in combination with other benefits, makes aluminum hardcoat anodizing the best choice for your next project.
Minimize Recycling Efforts
People think that just because a material is recyclable, it means it’s a green choice. This is true - plastic is better than styrofoam. But the life of a product after it’s recycled, and how many resources it takes to recycle, impact how “green” it is. Plastic, for example, is recyclable. But it’s only ever “downcycled,” and its life isn’t extended by much. Aluminum, on the other hand, can be recycled many times, and the process to do so isn’t labor intensive. In fact, aluminum cans can be back on the shelf in as little as 60 days!
Further, other processes, like painting, render the material unable to be recycled, and might not protect as well as adonization. Choosing aluminum hardcoat anodizing can protect your product and extend its life, keeping it out of recycling just a little bit longer. Anodized aluminum is just as recyclable as traditional aluminum, so you don’t have to worry!
Airborne Problems
Another concern of “eco-friendly” processes is the airborne hazards the application puts into the air. Paint and other coatings can release dangerous chemicals, which can further harm the ambient environment. Anodizing is a “conversion” coating - meaning a layer of a substance isn’t added to the aluminum. Instead, the outer layer is converted to aluminum oxide. Further, any inorganic chemicals used in the process have little negative impact on the air around you.
When exploring your coating options, aluminum hardcoat anodizing is appealing for many reasons. If it's long shelf life and strength do not sell you, consider the environmentally friendly factors to be a plus. Contact us here to learn more about our processes or to get a quote.
