ReMA Approves Vesper Specification for Aluminum Scrap Standards
The Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) has officially added the vesper specification to its ISRI Specifications, as announced on July 17. This new standard defines a higher-quality aluminum scrap grade, segregated from zorba or twitch, and composed of dry wrought aluminum. The vesper grade aims to enhance material circularity, especially in the context of rising aluminum use in vehicles.
The new specification limits contamination levels: less than 1% free magnesium, 1% free zinc, and 0.5% analytical iron. It also restricts nonmetallics and bans excessively oxidized or pressurized items. Any deviation must be arranged directly between buyer and seller. ReMA’s 30-day public comment period began on July 23, and stakeholders can submit feedback to ReMA Senior Economist Bret Biggers.
The vesper grade was developed in collaboration with Novelis Inc., a global aluminum recycler and rolling company based in Atlanta. The initiative reflects growing demand for clean, high-purity aluminum scrap suitable for closed-loop recycling in the automotive sector.
Vesper Specification Responds to Automotive Scrap Challenges
During ReMA 2025 in San Diego, the vesper specification was introduced at the “Spotlight on Aluminum” session. Panelists, including Novelis’ Senior Manager Gary Gallo, discussed the growing share of wrought alloy in automotive shred. Gallo highlighted the industry’s need for cleaner, segregated aluminum streams, especially as more aluminum-rich vehicles reach end-of-life.
He noted that traditional twitch recycling, often used in cast alloys like A380, results in lost value. For instance, shredding aluminum hoods and converting them into secondary cast alloys prevents recovery for future use in high-grade rolled products. Once the silicon level increases in scrap, it becomes unsuitable for applications requiring pure wrought content.
As a result, vesper offers a solution to preserve quality and maximize material efficiency. By clearly defining allowable contamination levels and mandating segregation, it supports better material recovery and aligns with OEM circularity goals.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
ReMA’s vesper specification is a strategic step forward for the nonferrous recycling industry. It responds to real-world challenges in aluminum scrap processing, particularly as auto manufacturers seek cleaner feedstock for sustainable production. With companies like Novelis backing these standards, vesper could soon become a vital benchmark in aluminum trading. We anticipate increased demand for vesper-grade scrap as automakers ramp up circular initiatives and alloy quality requirements. This move also reinforces how evolving material standards will shape pricing and procurement in the aluminum value chain.
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