Brazilian mining company Vale says it has successfully tested a new type of iron ore briquette, adapted for the direct reduction route, which the company says will contribute to the decarbonization of steel production.
The new type of briquette emits about 80% less CO2 compared with other pellets, says the company, abating Vale’s direct and indirect emissions (Scope 1 and 2). The briquette can also be used as a charge for the blast furnace (BF-BOF).
“With the development of this new type of briquette, Vale is taking another important step in its contribution to reducing emissions from the steelmaking chain through innovation, always in close collaboration with its clients and development partners.”
Rogério Nogueira, Vale’s director of product and business development
Rogério Nogueira, Vale’s director of product and business development, said: “With the development of this new type of briquette, Vale is taking another important step in its contribution to reducing emissions from the steelmaking chain through innovation, always in close collaboration with its clients and development partners.”
The company is building two 6 Mt/yr briquette plants at its Tubarão Unit in Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil. Start-up of the first plant is planned for the end of the first half of the year, while the second should begin operations at the end of the year.
In addition, memorandums of understanding have already been signed with more than 30 customers to study the implementation of decarbonization solutions, including the construction of briquette plants located on the premises of some customers.
Source: International Mining