Sustainable Applications for Disposal of Recycled Aluminum: A Systematic Literature Review Using the SciMAT Software

This review aims to carry out a scientific review of the current status of aluminum can recycling processes over the last 15 years, seeking to find sustainable applications for its destination. Thus, the research topics were defined by the identification of the structure of the scientific field of research and the relationship of aluminum recycling, casting processes, and formation of aluminum-based alloys, as well as their applications. Therefore, three topics were studied: the state of the art of aluminum recycling practices; processes being performed and aluminum casting techniques and methods; and the current state of formation of secondary aluminum-based alloys, the alloy elements being used, and their applications after the formation of alloys. Based on the above three topics, the research topics include (A) aluminum recycling, (B) casting processes, and (C) the formation of aluminum-based alloys and their applications. For bibliometric analysis, the software SciMAT was applied. Through the overlaid map and the evolution map, it was possible to detect the temporal evolution of the scientific field in the researched area. Cluster analysis allowed us to identify the motor words. Through the connections network, keywords connected to the motor themes were verified that indicated the connection areas of the research field and the main authors. The simulation models were factors of innovation in the area, as well as the software packages ANSYS and ProCAST. In the area of alloy formation, the liquid metal cleaning analyzer technique was highlighted in the production of high-quality alloys. The important connections to aluminum recycling feasibility are presented in this review.