Electrification of materials processing via microwave irradiation: A review of mechanism and applications

Electricity is a renewable and clean source of energy. Electrification of the industrial processes provides benefits in terms of environmental protection, enhanced productivity, and business growth. Such an approach prompted researchers to apply microwaves to develop more sustainable processes regarding unique characteristics of microwaves such as rapid heating, volumetric heating, and selective heating. However, the interaction between microwaves and materials must be well understood to design a large-scale microwave-assisted process. In the present study, the mechanism of microwave heating in some selected metals, metal oxides, and carbides are reviewed to prepare a comprehensive understanding of the material's behavior during microwave irradiation. Furthermore, various applications of microwaves (lab scale and industrial scale) are reviewed to discuss the scale-up potentials of the microwave-assisted processes, challenges and future direction.