Interviews
In the 7th edition of LeaderSpeak 2025, AL Circle chats with Judit Jeney, the Managing Director of Austin AI Europe, to explore the intersection of cutting-edge technology and aluminium recycling. From LIBS-based sensor systems to redefining what AI really means in aluminium sorting, Judit offers a no-nonsense take on how smart sorting is powering the next wave of industrial sustainability. Here’s a glimpse into the future of scrap processing, direct from one of the industry’s sharpest voices. For the full interview, head to the e-magazine.
AL Circle: How do you view the advancements in aluminium scrap processing for extracting aluminium and utilising it in industrial development?
Judit Jeney: Aluminium scrap processing has come a long way. Advanced, modern technologies, such as the innovative LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy)-based sensor sorter systems, have significantly increased the efficiency of extracting specific aluminium alloy fractions from mixed aluminium scrap. These technologies support the circular economy by reducing waste and reclaiming valuable metal. As industries demand more sustainable and cost-effective raw materials, scrap processing is now viewed as a strategic asset in industrial development, particularly for high-demand sectors like automotive, aerospace and construction.
AL Circle: How is artificial intelligence being integrated into sorting equipment? To what extent have you implemented AI in your sorting machines?
Judit Jeney: It is an interesting question. We often consider playing a quiz on what’ AI’ means in our company name:
(the answer is: B)
Although most LIBS applying sensor sorter models in the market use Artificial Intelligence, the Austin AI model is not part of that team. Our sorter is designed to ensure a real, singular distribution of the scrap pieces when they reach the analytical laser line one by one.
Also, we are using real analytics when the analytical laser recognises materials, a real chemical composition of the alloy piece is defined and compared to the actually set composition criteria. All is adapted in real-time, within msec period of time the sorting decision -Yes/No- is made.
The system is highly flexible, independent of changes in the input scrap. Easy and quick to change sorting criteria from one alloy composition to the other. There is no need to teach the sorting cycle with hundreds of known alloy spectra; the real chemistry works more precisely and rapidly. This results in the highest purity of the sorted fraction, which we call ‘ready-to-melt’ purity.
AL Circle: Do you think sorting can evolve into a separate industry in the future, given the growing emphasis on recycling?
Judit Jeney: Without a doubt. As products become more complex and the demand for material circularity intensifies, the act of scrap sorting, especially in a very specific way, is transforming from a support function into a specialised, tech-driven industry. In the future, envision can be evolving into a stand-alone sector — offering outsourced, high-precision sorting services to manufacturers, recyclers, and foundries. It’s not just about recycling anymore—it’s about our Blue Planet through material intelligence.
We all, at Austin AI Europe are proud to be part of defining the future of sustainable aluminium use. Through Austin AI LIBS technology, a deep understanding of industrial needs, the company helps transform recycling into a smarter, more strategic operation. As demand for secondary metals continues to rise, advanced sorting may soon become the pillar of the circular economy.
To explore the full interview and gain deeper insights on the global aluminium market and how Austin AI is contributing to its growth, click here.
