GET PAID WHEN YOU RECYCLE YOUR SPARK PLUGS

Why Should We Recycle Spark Plugs?

In 2022 alone, the global demand for iridium reached approximately 48,000 troy ounces. At a market price of $5,000 per troy ounce, the cost to manufacturers for this element alone amounts to a staggering $240 million. Additionally, in the same year, 104,000 ounces of platinum were used in spark plug manufacturing, equating to roughly $95 million at current market prices. But the benefits of spark plug recycling extend far beyond economic considerations. By reclaiming and reintroducing precious metals into the manufacturing cycle, Noble 6 helps alleviate the pressure on primary mining operations. This, in turn, reduces environmental degradation and lowers the carbon footprint associated with metal extraction.

Why are Precious Metals Used in Spark Plugs?!

Precious metals like platinum, iridium, and palladium boast exceptionally high melting points and superior electrical conductivity compared to conventional materials. This makes them ideal candidates for the electrode tips of spark plugs. When subjected to the extreme heat and electrical currents within the combustion chamber, these metals resist deformation and erosion, ensuring consistent performance over an extended lifespan.
Spark plugs also endure harsh conditions within the engine, including exposure to corrosive gases and intense heat. Precious metals exhibit remarkable resistance to corrosion and oxidation, preventing degradation of the electrode surfaces. This resistance translates to enhanced durability, reducing the frequency of spark plug replacement and maintenance costs for vehicle owners.

Facing the Iridium Shortage: What Happens When Mines Can’t Keep Up?

Iridium, one of the rarest and most valuable metals on Earth, faces an increasingly high demand across various high-tech and industrial sectors, despite an extremely limited supply. Annually, only about 6.5-8 tons of iridium are mined globally, primarily as a by-product of nickel and platinum mining. This constrained supply is under further pressure due to the finite nature of iridium-rich ore deposits and challenges in mining operations. As the demand for this strategic metal continues to rise, driven by its critical applications in electronics, aerospace, and chemical catalysis, the gap between supply and demand is widening. This situation is exacerbated by declining yields from traditional mining regions, posing significant challenges for industries that rely on this exceptional metal. The limited and decreasing supply of iridium, coupled with its indispensable uses, underscores the urgency in finding sustainable solutions or alternatives to meet global needs. Recycling spark plugs, which often contain iridium, can significantly mitigate supply constraints by reclaiming this rare metal and reducing the reliance on limited mining resources.

Spark Plug Recycling: A Key to the Hydrogen Economy?

Recycling used spark plugs could play a pivotal role in powering the future hydrogen economy and supporting sustainable practices. Many used spark plugs end up in steel mills or aluminum foundries, often overlooked for their valuable precious metals, iridium, and platinum. With the deep mining operations in South Africa curtailing and costs rising, the supply of iridium is expected to fall sharply by 2029.

As the demand for iridium grows, especially for the hydrogen economy’s PEM electrolyzers, repurposing these metals from used spark plugs is more important than ever. Learn how innovative programs in the United States are starting to harvest, collect, and recycle these metals, contributing to sustainability and a closed circular economy.

Join us as we explore the hidden value in spark plug recycling and its vital role in supporting the future hydrogen economy.

How to Spot the Difference Between Platinum and Iridium Spark Plugs!

To differentiate between platinum and iridium spark plugs, start by examining the center electrode. Copper spark plugs have a large, pinky-sized center electrode, whereas iridium plugs feature a fine wire and platinum plugs have a thicker base that may resemble a Hershey Kiss. Manufacturers also help by marking the ceramic body of the spark plug with indications like “IRL,” “iridium,” “platinum,” or “double platinum.” Additionally, the color of the ink used on the markings can provide clues; blue or green inks typically denote precious metal plugs, such as platinum or iridium, distinguishing them further from others marked with black ink.

How Many Spark Plugs Do I Need to Collect and How do I Ship?

With a focus on reclaiming Platinum and Iridium from spent sparkplugs , Noble 6 has pioneered a high-speed robotic process that promises to transform the way we think about resource conservation and environmental stewardship. The demand for Iridium is poised to surge, particularly with the rise of permeable electrolytic membrane “PEM” electrolizers needed to produce hydrogen by splitting water “H2O” for the emerging green economy. As primary mining sources dwindle, the need for alternative sources are becoming increasingly urgent.

Spark Plug Payday: Turning Scrap into Cash!

Previously, precious metals like iridium and platinum were lost during the recycling of spark plugs. However, noble6 has patented a high-speed robotic process that can recover these critical elements. This means that there is now an opportunity to be remunerated for collecting spark plugs in bulk. Edmund Schwenk, CEO of noble6, is addressing this long-standing dilemma of spark plug waste. He believes that this new technology has the potential to revolutionize the recycling industry and help to conserve these precious metals.

Diving into the future of sustainable practices at the 2024 Winter IPMI Conference with Mr. Matt Watson’s sharing his insights on spark plug recycling!