The Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) has successfully launched the use of biochar at its Rourkela plant, which the company has said demonstrates its ‘commitment to reducing carbon emissions in steel production.’
Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from biomass pyrolysis, enhances energy efficiency in steelmaking processes by partially replacing traditional pulverized coal injection in blast furnaces.
''By integrating biochar into our operations, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint and advancing our commitment to sustainable development.”
Shri Atanu Bhowmick, director of the Rourkela plant
“We are proud to be at the forefront of this transformative initiative in the entire SAIL. By integrating biochar into our operations, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint and advancing our commitment to sustainable development,” said Shri Atanu Bhowmick, director of the Rourkela plant.
Laboratory studies and trials conducted by RDCIS, the research and development centre at SAIL, have identified acacia wood and bamboo-based biochar as suitable replacements for PCI coal.
These materials, derived from fast-growing, carbon dioxide-absorbing trees and plants, are considered carbon neutral and are abundant in various regions of India.
Sharad Suryawanshi, executive director of SAIL, highlighted the importance of this initiative in achieving the steel plant’s carbon-neutral goal.
Source: ESG Times