Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth’s crust and is equally abundant in our everyday life—from kitchen foil to beverage cans to airplanes to automobiles. The modern aluminum production process from bauxite mining to refining to production to recycling has changed the way the world operates. Here’s how the process works – from bauxite mining to product recycling and back again.

Understanding the Context

Aluminum is the preferred spelling in the United States and Canada, while aluminium is favored throughout the rest of the English-speaking world. Both words have a long history of use referring to the metallic element (commonly used as foil to cover food). Consumer Reports: The Best Aluminum Foils Are Easy to Tear and Reuse Aluminum foil is a friendlier kitchen accoutrement than its counterpart, plastic wrap. It’s generally easier to tear from the roll or spread over a bowl.

Key Insights

Reviewing aluminum foil brands might not be the most glamorous undertaking, but it's certainly one of the more practical ones. Let's be honest, aluminum foil has almost as many uses as WD-40, and ... AOL: Don't Throw Out Aluminum Foil: Repurpose It Into The Perfect Campfire DIY Don't Throw Out Aluminum Foil: Repurpose It Into The Perfect Campfire DIY New York Post: Is cooking with aluminum foil safe? Experts say yes — except for this type of food We won’t get foiled again. Americans think nothing of using aluminum foil to prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner — but there are some risks involved, according to food safety experts.

Final Thoughts

While the ...