Why the processing route matters when comparing high-grade scrap, lower-preparation scrap and refined copper.
Clean metallic copper may be suitable for relatively direct reclamation and remelting where the receiving process and chemistry allow it. The economic value is therefore strongly linked to cleanliness, recoverability and preparation.
Oxidation, coatings, solder, alloying elements, iron and non-metallics can require additional sorting, smelting and refining. Treatment intensity and metal losses become part of the commercial value.
Mixed lower-grade copper-bearing feeds can pass through intermediate copper products before fire refining and electrorefining. The exact route depends on feed composition and plant technology.
A high headline Cu percentage does not by itself tell a buyer the treatment cost or the fit with its furnace/refinery. The purchase specification should therefore be connected to the receiving process.