This article is a readaptation of original reporting by Jason Sparapani for MIT News, regarding the Wulff Lecture delivered by metallurgist Diran Apelian at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
In a world increasingly defined by resource scarcity and environmental pressure, Diran Apelian, a pioneer in metallurgical engineering and MIT alumnus, is urging a fundamental shift in how we design and use modern materials. Speaking at the MIT Department of Materials Science and Engineering (DMSE), Apelian emphasized that “reuse” can no longer be a secondary thought or a niche research topic — it must be engineered into the very DNA of every product from its inception.
Rethinking the materials life cycle
The traditional “materials tetrahedron”—which focuses on processing, structure, properties, and performance—has long been the foundation of engineering. However, Apelian proposes a new, expanded framework that integrates circularity at every stage. This new paradigm includes repair, reuse, remanufacturing, and recycling as core phases of a material’s life cycle. By moving away from a “take-make-waste” model, industries can ensure that Earth-derived minerals remain within the economy for as long as possible.
Turning industrial waste into high-value resources
One of the most promising frontiers in circular engineering is the transformation of scrap into premium materials. Recent advancements in AI-driven sorting, robotics, and machine learning are already proving that what was once considered “downcycled” waste can now be reclaimed for high-performance applications. From aerospace-grade aluminium alloys derived from automotive scrap to “black mass” extracted from spent lithium-ion batteries for new cathodes, the goal is clear: creating maximum value from what society currently discards.
The responsibility of design and policy
A truly circular economy requires more than just technical innovation; it demands a shift in business models and accountability. Apelian highlights that if manufacturers were held responsible for their products at the end of their life, the design process would change overnight. Encouraging companies to prioritize durability and repairability — much like leaders in the sustainable apparel industry — is essential to reducing the massive energy expenditure required to extract new ores from the Earth.
Engineering a sustainable future
As the global population grows and the complexity of technology increases — with modern computer chips now requiring over 50 different elements compared to just 11 in the 1980s — the challenge for materials scientists is profound. «Sustainable growth is a challenge, but it is also an immense opportunity», Apelian concluded. By fostering a culture of discovery and accountability, the next generation of engineers can build a resilient industrial landscape that respects the limits of our planet.
