Submerged-arc welding slags: Characterization and leaching strategies for the removal of aluminum and titanium

► Submerged-arc welding slags were characterized by a variety of methods. ► The residue contain aluminum (10-14%) and titanium (up to 10%) to be reused. ► Spinel structures associated to Al species were identified in the slag. ► 80% Al was leached after calcination of slag followed by H2SO4 leaching.