Applying Bert Wasmund's guiding principles to the implementation of new green steelmaking technologies

Abstract

In 2011, Bert Wasmund and colleagues published an informative paper entitled “Implementing New Technologies in Metallurgical Processes: Building Plants that Work.” Wasmund reviewed the implementation path and ramp-up of new non-ferrous pyro- and hydrometallurgical technologies with a focus on successful elements that led to a rapid plant ramp-up and met stakeholder expectations. Fast forward to today, and we see that the steel industry is in the initial stages of a generational change, implementing new process technologies to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) related to the blast furnace-BOF steelmaking route. New steel technologies propose to incorporate both elevated-temperature metallurgical and lower-temperature chemical processes in a unique fashion to achieve a significant reduction in GHG emissions.

The challenges faced with new metallurgical technology and pathways that Wasmund identified for success are presented. Case studies regarding alternative ironmaking technologies including the Midrex™ , Energiron™ , HIsmelt™ , and Finex™ processes are discussed to identify the unique elements that led to success. Key considerations to create successful outcomes for green steel technology developments are presented.