Optimization of Biocarbon Production for Steelmaking

One of the tasks within the FINAST research program contributes to optimizing biomass pyrolysis processes for the production of high-quality biocarbon suitable for fossil-free steelmaking. This research addresses the ongoing demand for new renewable carbon sources in the steel industry's transition to fossil-free.
In the task, where Yusuf Tolunay Kilic is involved as a PhD student, the primary objective is to find a way to fulfil the quality demands for biocarbon in steel production. Future fossil-free steelmaking processes will rely heavily on hydrogen as a reducing agent, significantly reducing the need for carbon. However, carbon-containing solids remain indispensable in certain production steps. A key challenge lies in ensuring that the biocarbon meets stringent quality requirements, particularly regarding the removal of critical ash-forming elements, such as potassium (K) and phosphorus (P), commonly found in biomass resources like forest residues and bark. Work involves developing a novel method to remove these elements before the biocarbon enters the steel production process.

Utilizing the byproducts from biocarbon production

Similar to coke making, biocarbon is produced by heating up biomass up to high temperatures without the contact with air to increase the carbon content in the solid. In this process, a large portion of biomass will turn into bio-oil and combustible gas, which are usually burnt to produce heat.

Another critical aspect of the sub-project is to explore the efficient utilization of byproducts generated during biomass pyrolysis. Due to the high stability requirements of carbon structures for steelmaking, the conversion efficiency of biomass into biocarbon is relatively low. This results in significant byproduct streams of oil and gas, which possess substantial chemical energy. The project seeks to identify effective ways to integrate these byproducts into steel production plants or other societal systems, such as district heating networks, maximizing resource efficiency and minimizing waste.

Collaboration and system-wide impact

This task will provide vital insights for designing optimized biomass pyrolysis processes. Furthermore, it contributes to a holistic understanding of the entire value chain in fossil-free steelmaking. Collaborations with related tasks in FINAST, such as the evaluation of biocarbon functionality in electric arc furnaces and system-wide analyses, will ensure the development of an integrated approach to using sustainably sourced biomass in the steel industry.