Global Zinc Scrap Market Size, Share, Analysis Report - Forecast 2032

Zinc Scrap Market Insights

According to Market Research Store, the global zinc scrap market size was valued at around USD 1638.2 million in 2023 and is estimated to reach USD 3457.19 million by 2032, to register a CAGR of approximately 7.8%in terms of revenue during the forecast period 2024-2032.

The zinc scrap report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market, including its size, share, growth trends, revenue details, and other crucial information regarding the target market. It also covers the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges till 2032.

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Global Zinc Scrap Market: Overview

Zinc scrap refers to recyclable zinc-containing materials that are collected from industrial waste, end-of-life products, and manufacturing by-products. These include items such as old galvanized steel, die-cast zinc parts, zinc anodes, roofing sheets, and used zinc batteries. The scrap can be categorized into different grades based on its purity and the form in which it is collected—such as new scrap (from production processes) or old scrap (from used consumer and industrial goods). Due to zinc's corrosion-resistant properties and its widespread application in galvanizing, die casting, and alloy production, recycling zinc scrap has become an essential and sustainable alternative to primary zinc extraction from ores.

Key Highlights

• The zinc scrap market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.8%during the forecast period.
• The global zinc scrap market was estimated to be worth approximately USD 1638.2 million in 2023 and is projected to reach a value of USD 3457.19 million by 2032.
• The growth of the zinc scrap market is being driven by strong demand from construction, automotive, and electronics industries, which rely heavily on galvanized steel and zinc-based components.
• Based on the type of scrap, the zinc alloy scrap segment is growing at a high rate and is projected to dominate the market.
• On the basis of source of scrap, the industrial scrap segment is projected to swipe the largest market share.
• In terms of form of scrap, the solid zinc scrap segment is expected to dominate the market.
• Based on the quality of scrap, the high-grade zinc scrap segment is expected to dominate the market.
• In terms of end-use applications, the construction industry segment is expected to dominate the market.
• By region, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the global market during the forecast period.

Zinc Scrap Market: Dynamics

Key Growth Drivers:

• Growing Demand for Recycled Zinc: Increasing environmental awareness and stringent regulations on waste disposal are driving the demand for recycled metals, including zinc. Using zinc scrap reduces the need for energy-intensive primary zinc production, making it a more sustainable option.
• Cost-Effectiveness of Recycled Zinc: Zinc recovered from scrap is generally more cost-effective than primary zinc production, as it requires less energy and resources. This economic advantage makes zinc scrap an attractive raw material for various industries.
• Wide Applications of Zinc: Zinc is used in numerous applications, including galvanizing steel to prevent corrosion, die-casting for automotive parts and hardware, brass and bronze alloys, and the production of zinc oxide for paints, rubber, and pharmaceuticals. The widespread use of zinc generates a consistent supply of zinc scrap.
• Government Initiatives and Regulations Promoting Recycling: Many governments worldwide are implementing policies and regulations that encourage recycling and the use of recycled materials, which positively impacts the demand for zinc scrap. This includes setting recycling targets and offering incentives for using recycled content.

Restraints:

• Fluctuations in Primary Zinc Prices: The price of zinc scrap is often linked to the price of primary zinc on the London Metal Exchange (LME). Volatility in primary zinc prices can lead to fluctuations in scrap prices, making it challenging for recyclers and end-users to manage costs and inventory.
• Quality and Impurity Concerns: Zinc scrap can vary significantly in quality and may contain impurities or contaminants that need to be removed through processing. The cost and complexity of refining lower-grade scrap can be a restraint.
• Availability and Collection Infrastructure: The availability of zinc scrap depends on efficient collection and dismantling infrastructure. In some regions, inadequate infrastructure can limit the supply of good quality scrap.
• Competition from Other Materials: In some applications, zinc may face competition from alternative materials like aluminum or plastics, which can impact the overall demand for both primary and recycled zinc.

Opportunities:

• Technological Advancements in Recycling Processes: Ongoing research and development are leading to more efficient and cost-effective technologies for processing and refining zinc scrap, improving the quality of recovered zinc and expanding the range of recyclable materials.
• Increasing Focus on Circular Economy: The global shift towards a circular economy model, emphasizing resource efficiency and waste reduction, presents significant opportunities for the zinc scrap market. This includes designing products for recyclability and promoting material recovery.
• Growing Demand from Emerging Economies: Rapid industrialization and infrastructure development in emerging economies are ¹ increasing the demand for zinc, which can be partially met through the utilization of zinc scrap.  
• Development of New Applications for Recycled Zinc: Continuous research into new applications and alloys utilizing recycled zinc can create new markets and increase demand for zinc scrap.

Challenges:

• Effective Collection and Sorting of Scrap: Ensuring the efficient collection and accurate sorting of different grades and types of zinc scrap is a significant challenge. Contamination and mixed materials can reduce the value and usability of the recovered zinc.
• Meeting Stringent Environmental Regulations: Zinc recycling processes must comply with increasingly strict environmental regulations regarding emissions, waste disposal, and handling of hazardous materials.
• Logistics and Transportation Costs: The costs associated with collecting, processing, and transporting zinc scrap can be substantial and can impact the overall economic viability of recycling operations, especially for low-value or geographically dispersed scrap.
• Educating End-Users on the Benefits of Recycled Zinc: Overcoming potential biases against recycled materials and educating end-users about the quality and performance benefits of recycled zinc are crucial for increasing its acceptance and utilization.

Zinc Scrap Market: Report Scope

This report thoroughly analyzes the Zinc Scrap Market, exploring its historical trends, current state, and future projections. The market estimates presented result from a robust research methodology, incorporating primary research, secondary sources, and expert opinions. These estimates are influenced by the prevailing market dynamics as well as key economic, social, and political factors. Furthermore, the report considers the impact of regulations, government expenditures, and advancements in research and development on the market. Both positive and negative shifts are evaluated to ensure a comprehensive and accurate market outlook.

Zinc Scrap Market: Segmentation Insights

The global zinc scrap market is divided by type of scrap, source of scrap, form of scrap, quality of scrap, end-use applications, and region.

Segmentation Insights by Type of Scrap

Based on type of scrap, the global zinc scrap market is divided into heavy metal zinc scrap, die cast zinc scrap, zinc alloy scrap, zinc coated scrap, and miscellaneous zinc scrap.

In the zinc scrap market, zinc alloy scrap emerges as the most dominant segment. This type of scrap is widely used across industries due to its high demand in the die-casting sector, particularly in automotive, electronics, and hardware manufacturing. Zinc alloys, often combined with aluminum and copper, are extensively recycled because they retain their chemical and physical properties well, making them valuable and cost-effective raw materials for secondary production. Their durability and corrosion resistance make them ideal for reprocessing into components that require long-term performance.

Following closely is the die cast zinc scrap segment. This scrap primarily originates from discarded die-cast components used in various industrial and consumer goods. The uniform composition and high purity of die-cast zinc make it attractive for recycling, especially in applications like plumbing fixtures, electrical fittings, and automotive parts. The recycling process of die-cast zinc is relatively efficient, and the recovered material is often reused without significant downcycling, which maintains its value in the market.

The next significant segment is zinc coated scrap, which includes materials such as galvanized steel that have a protective zinc layer. While the zinc content in coated scrap is lower compared to alloy or die-cast scrap, its availability in large volumes, especially from the construction and automotive sectors, makes it a notable contributor to the market. However, the recovery of zinc from coated scrap is more complex due to the need to separate the zinc from the underlying metal, typically steel.

Heavy metal zinc scrap represents a smaller portion of the market. This category includes dense and bulkier zinc-containing items, such as large castings or industrial machinery components. Though it contains a high volume of zinc, the irregularity in composition and the challenges in handling and processing these heavy materials limit its dominance in the overall market.

Lastly, miscellaneous zinc scrap forms the least dominant segment. This category encompasses a wide variety of zinc-containing waste that doesn't fall into the standard classifications, including mixed metal scrap with varying zinc content and unidentified zinc-based materials. The inconsistent composition and lower predictability of recovery rates make this segment less favorable for large-scale industrial recycling, thus reducing its market share.

Segmentation Insights by Source of Scrap

On the basis of source of scrap, the global zinc scrap market is bifurcated into industrial scrap, post-consumer scrap, construction & demolition debris, automotive scrap, and manufacturing waste.

In the zinc scrap market, industrial scrap stands out as the most dominant segment by source. This type of scrap is generated during the production and processing of zinc-containing products in various industries such as metal fabrication, galvanization, and foundries. Industrial scrap is typically clean, homogenous, and has a high zinc content, making it highly desirable for recycling. The predictable quality and steady supply from large industrial operations contribute to its leading position in the market.

Manufacturing waste follows closely behind and includes off-cuts, trimmings, and rejected components from manufacturing processes that involve zinc or zinc alloys. This scrap source is similar in purity and consistency to industrial scrap, making it efficient and cost-effective to recycle. Due to increased automation and quality control in modern manufacturing, this segment contributes significantly to the supply of high-grade recyclable zinc.

Automotive scrap is another important segment, fueled by the increasing use of zinc in die-cast parts for vehicles, such as door handles, carburetors, and emblems. As vehicles reach the end of their lifecycle, these zinc components become available for recycling. While automotive scrap is abundant, it requires careful dismantling and sorting to extract zinc parts, which can limit its ease of processing compared to industrial or manufacturing waste.

Construction and demolition debris forms a smaller but growing segment. It includes zinc materials from roofing, cladding, fasteners, and galvanized structural components removed during renovation or demolition projects. Although the zinc content in this type of scrap can be considerable, it is often mixed with other debris and contaminants, making it less efficient to process and recycle.

Lastly, post-consumer scrap is the least dominant source. This includes discarded zinc-containing products from households and small businesses, such as batteries, hardware, and consumer electronics. While post-consumer scrap is widespread, it is typically more heterogeneous, contaminated, and difficult to collect and process in bulk, limiting its contribution to high-volume, high-purity zinc recycling streams.

Segmentation Insights by Form of Scrap

Based on form of scrap, the global zinc scrap market is divided into solid zinc scrap, shredded zinc scrap, zinc dust, zinc slag, and powdered zinc scrap.

In terms of form, solid zinc scrap is the most dominant segment in the zinc scrap market. This category includes sizable, intact pieces of zinc or zinc alloy—such as rods, sheets, castings, and large off-cuts—commonly sourced from industrial processes, construction materials, and die-casting operations. Solid zinc scrap is highly valued for its high purity and ease of handling, storage, and reprocessing. Its consistent quality and broad availability across multiple sectors make it the primary choice for recyclers and secondary zinc producers.

Next in importance is shredded zinc scrap, which consists of smaller, irregular fragments typically produced by mechanical shredding of larger zinc-containing items. Shredded scrap offers a good balance between purity and processability, especially for automated recycling systems. It is widely used in foundries and metal recovery operations because its particle size allows for faster melting and easier handling compared to larger solid forms.

Zinc dust ranks third and is often a byproduct of industrial operations like galvanizing, smelting, or surface treatment. Although it is fine and requires careful handling due to its flammability and potential health hazards, zinc dust has specific applications in areas like paint pigments, chemical processes, and batteries. However, its niche demand and special storage requirements limit its dominance.

Zinc slag, which is the residue left after smelting or refining zinc, represents a smaller market share. While it contains recoverable zinc, the recovery process is energy-intensive and generates additional waste. As a result, it is less preferred unless processed through specialized facilities that can handle such byproducts economically.

At the bottom of the market hierarchy is powdered zinc scrap, which includes extremely fine zinc particles resulting from grinding or polishing processes. This form of scrap poses significant collection, storage, and health safety challenges. Although it can be reused in some metallurgical or chemical applications, the inconsistent particle quality and increased risk of contamination restrict its widespread use and market relevance.

Segmentation Insights by Quality of Scrap

On the basis of quality of scrap, the global zinc scrap market is bifurcated into high-grade zinc scrap, medium-grade zinc scrap, low-grade zinc scrap, contaminated zinc scrap, and uncontaminated zinc scrap.

In the zinc scrap market segmented by quality, high-grade zinc scrap holds the most dominant position. This category includes scrap with high zinc content and minimal impurities—typically derived from industrial processes, die-casting operations, or clean off-cuts from manufacturing. Due to its superior quality, high-grade zinc scrap is in strong demand for producing high-performance zinc alloys and galvanized products. It requires minimal processing before reuse, making it both cost-effective and environmentally favorable for recyclers and smelters.

Uncontaminated zinc scrap follows closely and often overlaps with high-grade material but emphasizes the absence of oils, coatings, or foreign metals rather than just purity level. This scrap is especially preferred in applications where contamination would affect product quality, such as in chemical, pharmaceutical, or precision manufacturing industries. It offers a consistent feedstock for secondary zinc production with fewer operational hurdles in smelting or refining.

Medium-grade zinc scrap is next in significance. It contains a reasonably high percentage of zinc but may include minor impurities or be mixed with other metals such as aluminum or copper. Medium-grade scrap often requires additional sorting or refining, making it slightly less attractive than high-grade materials but still valuable for many general-purpose applications like galvanization or casting lower-spec components.

Low-grade zinc scrap occupies a smaller portion of the market and includes material with significantly lower zinc content or those mixed heavily with other materials. Its unpredictable composition and lower yield make it less profitable for recyclers. While it may still be used in applications where absolute purity is not critical, it often undergoes extensive processing or is downgraded for limited industrial use.

Contaminated zinc scrap forms the least dominant segment. This scrap includes zinc waste mixed with oils, plastics, paints, or hazardous substances, often sourced from post-consumer or demolition waste. Due to the complexity and cost of decontamination, this type of scrap is typically avoided unless economic or environmental incentives exist. Its handling is also subject to strict environmental regulations, further reducing its attractiveness in the commercial zinc recycling stream.

Segmentation Insights by End-Use Applications

On the basis of end-use applications, the global zinc scrap market is bifurcated into construction industry, automotive industry, electrical appliances, chemical manufacturing, and battery production.

In the zinc scrap market by end-use applications, the construction industry represents the most dominant segment. Zinc is widely used in construction for galvanizing steel (to prevent corrosion), roofing, cladding, and structural components. These materials are often recycled after renovation or demolition activities, contributing to a robust demand for zinc scrap in this sector. The continuous global infrastructure development and focus on sustainable building practices further amplify the consumption of recycled zinc in construction.

The automotive industry follows closely, as it is a major consumer of zinc alloys, particularly in die-casting applications for parts like carburetors, door handles, emblems, and brackets. As vehicles reach the end of their life, zinc-containing parts become a significant source of recyclable material. The industry's growing shift toward lightweight and recyclable materials continues to support strong demand for high-quality zinc scrap.

Electrical appliances constitute the next significant segment, where zinc is used in components for household and industrial devices, including fasteners, connectors, and casings. As appliance turnover rates increase and electronic waste recycling becomes more regulated and widespread, the volume of zinc scrap from this segment is gradually rising, supporting a stable demand for secondary zinc materials.

Chemical manufacturing is a smaller but specialized segment in the zinc scrap market. Zinc and its derivatives are used in producing chemicals such as zinc oxide, zinc sulfate, and zinc chloride, which have applications in agriculture, rubber production, and pharmaceuticals. While the volume demand from this segment is not as high as in construction or automotive, it requires consistent, uncontaminated scrap feedstock to meet purity standards, sustaining niche but reliable market activity.

Finally, battery production—mainly involving zinc-carbon and zinc-air batteries—represents the least dominant segment. While the push for recycling electronic waste and energy storage materials is increasing, the volume of zinc recovered from battery production or disposal remains relatively low compared to other industries. However, advancements in battery technology and circular economy policies may drive gradual growth in this segment over time.

Zinc Scrap Market: Regional Insights

• Asia Pacific is expected to dominates the global market

Asia Pacific is the most dominant region in the global zinc scrap market, primarily driven by the rapid pace of industrialization and urban development across countries such as China, India, and Japan. The region’s dominance is fueled by a robust construction and automotive industry, both of which consume large quantities of zinc for galvanization and alloy production. China, in particular, plays a central role due to its massive recycling infrastructure and position as both a leading consumer and processor of zinc scrap. Moreover, rising environmental awareness and governmental support for recycling initiatives contribute significantly to market growth in this region.

North America follows closely behind, supported by a mature recycling ecosystem and stringent environmental regulations that encourage the reuse of secondary materials like zinc scrap. The United States and Canada are key contributors, with established construction, automotive, and electrical industries that rely heavily on zinc products. The region's technological advancements in material recovery and processing bolster its competitive position, along with growing investments in sustainable manufacturing practices.

Europe holds a strong position in the zinc scrap market, benefiting from its commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles. Countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France have implemented effective recycling frameworks that promote zinc reuse across various sectors, particularly in automotive and infrastructure development. The region also benefits from advanced technologies and industry collaborations that enhance the efficiency of zinc recovery and application.

Latin America is showing moderate growth in the zinc scrap market, led by countries like Brazil and Mexico. Increasing construction activity and automotive production are gradually boosting demand for recycled zinc. However, limited recycling infrastructure and slower policy implementation compared to more developed regions slightly restrict growth potential. Efforts to modernize industrial practices and adopt sustainable materials are underway, indicating future opportunities for expansion.

Middle East and Africa is the least dominant region but is beginning to show signs of development in the zinc scrap market. Nations such as the United Arab Emirates and South Africa are initiating recycling programs and infrastructure projects that incorporate zinc-based materials. Although the market is still in an early phase, growing awareness of environmental benefits and increasing demand from the construction sector are expected to support gradual growth in the region.

Zinc Scrap Market: Competitive Landscape

The report provides an in-depth analysis of companies operating in the zinc scrap market, including their geographic presence, business strategies, product offerings, market share, and recent developments. This analysis helps to understand market competition.

Some of the major players in the global zinc scrap market include:

• Sims Metal Management
• OmniSource
• European Metal Recycling
• Schnitzer Steel Industries
• Hanwa
• Commercial Metals
• Chiho Environmental Group
• Nucor
• Cohen
• DOWA

The global zinc scrap market is segmented as follows:

By Type of Scrap

• Heavy Metal Zinc Scrap
• Die Cast Zinc Scrap
• Zinc Alloy Scrap
• Zinc Coated Scrap
• Miscellaneous Zinc Scrap

By Source of Scrap

• Industrial Scrap
• Post-Consumer Scrap
• Construction and Demolition Debris
• Automotive Scrap
• Manufacturing Waste

By Form of Scrap

• Solid Zinc Scrap
• Shredded Zinc Scrap
• Zinc Dust
• Zinc Slag
• Powdered Zinc Scrap

By Quality of Scrap

• High-Grade Zinc Scrap
• Medium-Grade Zinc Scrap
• Low-Grade Zinc Scrap
• Contaminated Zinc Scrap
• Uncontaminated Zinc Scrap

By End-Use Applications

• Construction Industry
• Automotive Industry
• Electrical Appliances
• Chemical Manufacturing
• Battery Production

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • U.K.
  • France
  • Germany
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Rest of Latin America
• The Middle East and Africa
  • GCC Countries
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East Africa

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