Considerations Regarding Ship Recycling

Abstract

Ship dismantling is a common practice at the end of the ship’s life for the recovery of materials used in its structure. However, the main countries involved in this activity are located in underdeveloped countries that use the worst techniques, presenting hazards to workers and the environment. This work presents the opportunities that this activity can offer to the shipyards and the steel mills in the country. It is intended to address information on the practice of ship recycling, as the main countries involved, the main differences between practices in underdeveloped countries, and in developed countries. Information about the legislation created in recent years is presented in order to make this activity more sustainable, as well as the opportunities that this activity offers. In this context are shown the various materials present on the ship as well as their possible applications. It also addresses the current situation of Brazilian shipyards, which have experienced a severe economic crisis, which has led to the closure of yards and the dismissal of several workers. As such, the recycling of Brazilian vessels presents a potential market for shipyards, as well as offering a secondary steel market to the steel industries present in the country. The research work was done through a bibliographical study, surveys, mapping, and data collection, which allowed us to show the possibility of carrying out this activity in Brazil.