Zero-carbon steel

Steel production is one of the largest sources of carbon emissions globally, with the sector accounting for around 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are promising developments in the field of zero-carbon steel, which aims to produce steel without emitting carbon.

One promising approach to zero-carbon steel production involves using green hydrogen, which is produced from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, as a reducing agent in the production process. This process, known as direct reduced iron (DRI) or sponge iron production, can significantly reduce carbon emissions from steel production. According to a report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), using green hydrogen in steel production could potentially reduce global carbon emissions by up to 5%.

Another approach to zero-carbon steel production is through electric arc furnaces (EAFs) that melt down recycled steel. EAFs are powered by electricity, which can be generated from renewable energy sources, making them a more sustainable option than traditional blast furnaces. According to a report by the Rocky Mountain Institute, electric steelmaking has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional steel production.

In addition to these approaches, there are other innovative technologies being developed to produce zero-carbon steel. One example is molten oxide electrolysis, which involves using electrolysis to produce steel directly from iron ore without the need for carbon. This process is still in the early stages of development but has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions.

Sources:

• International Energy Agency. (2021). Energy Technology Perspectives 2020. Paris: IEA.
• Rocky Mountain Institute. (2019). Catalyzing Clean Steel: Strategies to Accelerate Clean Energy Innovation in the Steel Industry. Basalt, CO: Rocky Mountain Institute.