Program 1 - RP1.016
Overview
The iron and steel industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable processes and use low-grade iron ores effectively. Conventional beneficiation methods struggle to produce the high-grade iron ore needed for electric arc furnaces, while the declining availability of premium ore deposits in Australia necessitates innovative, low-carbon technologies that are efficient, cost-effective, and require minimal energy and water.
Thermally assisted beneficiation methods, particularly low- to mid-temperature processes, show promise for achieving high-grade concentrate and mass yields using renewable energy. These methods also reduce the amount of slag (waste material containing impurities removed from ore), improve pellet properties, and support hydrogen direct reduced iron (H2DRI) processes.
High-flux radiation technology has demonstrated potential at lab scale, but scaling up and studying key variables (e.g. heating rates and reduction conditions) are critical for commercialisation. It is also crucial to understand how these beneficiated products perform in H2DRI and pellet production.
The alumina sector also faces decarbonisation challenges. High levels of carbon found in Australian bauxite (total organic carbon, or TOC) reduce the efficiency of the Bayer process (refining bauxite ore to produce alumina), limiting yield and product quality. Advances in thermally assisted technologies, such as high-flux radiation methods, show promise for reducing carbon while maintaining alumina extraction.
This project aims to address these challenges, advancing Australia’s ability to develop low-carbon solutions for the iron/steel and alumina industries.
Project Details
HILT CRC Milestones
Research Areas
Project Outcomes
Project Benefits
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