TheIndustry pyrometallurgical production of various nonferrous metals such as copperCopper and nickel relies primarily on magnesia-chrome refractory linings. During their service life, they are infiltrated by melt phases containing Cu and Ni, but also associated metals such as Co, Pb, Sn, or Zn. Presently, spent refractoriesSpent refractories are disposed of in landfills to a great extent. Given the current push for enhanced resource efficiencyResource efficiency, it is important to explore the potential of such residues as possible alternative sources and identify viable processing options. The presented research focuses on the evaluation of spent magnesia-chrome refractories originating from pyrometallurgical production processes of both copperCopper and nickel with respect to the recoverability of the contained fractions, the refractory material itself, and the infiltrated metals. Based on characterization via optical microscopy, chemical and mineralogical analyses as well as small-scale crushing and sieving experiments, possible separation and recoveryRecovery concepts are outlined, pointing out arising opportunities and challenges for their implementation.