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Decarbonization Pathways, Strategies, and Use Cases to Achieve Net-Zero CO 2 Emissions in the Steelmaking Industry

Author

Listed:
  • Josué Rodríguez Diez

    (ArcelorMittal Global R&D Basque Country Research Centre, 48910 Sestao, Spain
    Electrical Engineering Department, University of Oviedo, 33204 Gijón, Spain)

  • Silvia Tomé-Torquemada

    (ArcelorMittal Global R&D Basque Country Research Centre, 48910 Sestao, Spain)

  • Asier Vicente

    (ArcelorMittal Global R&D Basque Country Research Centre, 48910 Sestao, Spain)

  • Jon Reyes

    (ArcelorMittal Global R&D Basque Country Research Centre, 48910 Sestao, Spain)

  • G. Alonso Orcajo

    (Electrical Engineering Department, University of Oviedo, 33204 Gijón, Spain)

Abstract

The steelmaking industry is responsible for 7% of global CO 2 emissions, making decarbonization a significant challenge. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of current steel-production processes, assessing their environmental impact in terms of CO 2 emissions at a global level. Limitations of the current pathways are outlined by using objective criteria and a detailed review of the relevant literature. Decarbonization strategies are rigorously evaluated across various scenarios, emphasizing technology feasibility. Focusing on three pivotal areas—scrap utilization, hydrogen integration, and electricity consumption—in-depth assessments are provided, backed by notable contributions from both industrial and scientific fields. The intricate interplay of technical, economic, and regulatory considerations substantially affects CO 2 emissions, particularly considering the EU Emissions Trading System. Leading steel producers have established challenging targets for achieving carbon neutrality, requiring a thorough evaluation of industry practices. This paper emphasizes tactics to be employed within short-, medium-, and long-term periods. This article explores two distinct case studies: One involves a hot rolling mill that utilizes advanced energy techniques and uses H 2 for the reheating furnace, resulting in a reduction of 229 kt CO 2 -eq per year. The second case examines DRI production incorporating H 2 and achieves over 90% CO 2 reduction per ton of DRI.

Suggested Citation

  • Josué Rodríguez Diez & Silvia Tomé-Torquemada & Asier Vicente & Jon Reyes & G. Alonso Orcajo, 2023. "Decarbonization Pathways, Strategies, and Use Cases to Achieve Net-Zero CO 2 Emissions in the Steelmaking Industry," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(21), pages 1-31, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:21:p:7360-:d:1271728
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    References listed on IDEAS

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