Abstract
Alternative feedstocks are reviewed in terms of availability, quality, and order of cost. The principal methods of processing these feedstock—spractised and proposed—are listed, with comments on significant features. Particular attention is directed to the energy requirements for reduction in the case of low-temperature chemical processes, conventional powder processes employing direct reduction, and other methods. Approximate capital costs are provided to form the basis of estimates regarding the economy to be expected at different scales of operation. From these estimates the changing significance of the various components of cost is examined. By means of an empirical correlation derived from market behaviour, possible selling prices are associated with possible output levels.
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