Upgraded biomass partially replacing injected coal (blast furnace)
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Technology Description
Biomass injection into blast furnaces is already applied commercially in Brazil, as it can be used as a reductant. However, not all types of biomass are suitable for direct injection, and some types require small-scale, less efficient blast furnaces due to the lower compressive strength of charcoal compared to coke. A less mature technology route is the conversion or upgrading of biomass to a coal-like material through torrefaction or pyrolysis, in which biomass is heated to temperate in the range of 200 °C to 400 °C in the absence of oxygen. The 'bio-coal' has characteristics more similar to coal than the original biomass. Such bio-coal can be used in standard blast furnaces to replace a portion of injected coal.
Relevance for Net Zero
Biomass has potential to reduce emissions from blast furnaces, but cannot fully replace the coal and coke needs of the standard blast furnace. Furthermore, limitations of sustainable biomass availability will put an upper limit on the potential for this option.
Key Countries
Brazil, Belgium, Canada
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