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Electric smelting furnace technology, hydrogen fuel alternatives for blast furnaces: Experts


Published on 2025-02-21 00:22:28 - MSN
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  • India, like other nations, must gradually phase out blast furnaces to achieve its goal of net-zero emissions, paving the way for green steel production.

The article from MSN discusses the shift towards more sustainable steel production methods in India, focusing on alternatives to traditional blast furnaces. It highlights the adoption of Electric Smelting Furnace (ESF) technology, which uses electricity to melt iron ore, thereby reducing carbon emissions compared to coal-based blast furnaces. Additionally, the article explores the potential of hydrogen as a fuel alternative, noting that hydrogen can be used in Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) processes, which are less carbon-intensive when paired with renewable energy sources. Experts like Dr. Debashish Bhattacharjee from Tata Steel and Dr. Ranjan Basu from CSIR-NML emphasize the importance of these technologies for achieving net-zero emissions in steel production. They discuss the challenges, including the need for a reliable supply of green hydrogen and the high initial costs of setting up ESF units, but also point out the long-term environmental and economic benefits. The article also mentions ongoing research and pilot projects aimed at integrating these new technologies into India's steel industry to meet global sustainability goals.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-in/science/environmental-science/electric-smelting-furnace-technology-hydrogen-fuel-alternatives-for-blast-furnaces-experts/ar-AA1zufR8 ]