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Intelligent control systems developed for production facilities significantly contribute to production efficiency and quality. Using intelligent control systems has now become a necessity in iron and steel sintering plants that produce millions of tonnes annually. Automatic control of the sinter machine speed, which directly affects production efficiency and quality, is one of the first issues to be addressed. The complexity of the sintering process, being affected by many variables, and the nonlinearity of these variables make it difficult to control the machine speed. This study demonstrates that we have overcome this challenge using a fuzzy logic controller (FLC), which is optimized with an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The FLC we have designed operates with the characteristic point of the thermal state, the mixture level, the vacuum average, and the current speed parameters. We achieved an average success rate of 95%. The developed system automatically controls the speed of the sinter machine with high accuracy, independent of the operator. The system we have developed is used continuously at the Iskenderun Iron & Steel Co. sinter plant. The results obtained from the production facility show that the developed system captures the thermal change in the sinter pallet and manages the machine accordingly, increases the sintering efficiency by at least 10%, and ensures process safety. These results revealed that the developed system can be used effectively in the iron and steel industry and the use of the system will increase efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen metallurgy is an innovative and sustainable approach to producing iron that lowers CO 2 emissions by using hydrogen instead of fossil fuels. This study explores hydrogen-based direct reduced iron (DRI) production as a key decarbonization strategy for the iron and steel industry, examining global and Chinese development trends and focusing on technical challenges. A comprehensive production process-material and energy-CO 2 emission-levelized cost integrated model is developed to assess the environmental and economic impacts of different DRI-Electric arc furnace (EAF) production routes, including coal gasification-DRI-EAF, coke oven gas (COG)-DRI-EAF, natural gas reforming-DRI-EAF, water electrolysis with grid electricity-DRI-EAF, and water electrolysis with green electricity-DRI-EAF. Findings indicate that the water electrolysis with green electricity-DRI-EAF route emits 0.46 tCO 2 /t-steel product (sp) with the most exceptional decarbonization potentials, whereas the COG-DRI-EAF route emits 3.08 tCO 2 /t-sp. The COG-DRI-EAF route demonstrates the lowest levelized cost index of 1.28, highlighting its cost efficiency. Scenario analysis reveals that in the Baseline scenario, CO 2 emissions from increasing DRI-EAF production rise steadily, while the DRI Promotion scenario suggests slower growth with potential emissions reductions through technological improvements. Despite initial increases, CO 2 emissions in the Ambitious DRI Development scenario start to decline around 2045, with projected CO 2 emissions reaching 146.1 Mt by 2060. All scenarios indicate rising demands for hydrogen, water, Direct reduced (DR)-grade iron ore, and electricity, especially in the Ambitious DRI Development scenario. The study also assesses the economic competitiveness of DRI-EAF versus blast furnace-basic oxygen furnace (BF-BOF) steel products. • Hydrogen-based DRI reduces CO 2 emissions by using hydrogen instead of fossil fuels. • Green electricity water electrolysis-DRI-EAF has the lowest environmental impact. • COG-DRI-EAF route is identified as the most cost-efficient option. • Ambitious DRI scenario predicts a significant decline in CO 2 emissions by 2060. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare earth elements (REEs) are crucial additives in the iron and steel industry. The accurate determination of thermodynamic data is fundamental for applying REEs in steel production; however, this has proven challenging due to their strong reactivity with refractory materials. This study assessed the thermodynamic data for the yttrium–oxygen equilibrium in liquid iron, using high‐temperature experiments with high‐purity Y2O3 crucibles as the smelting container. More reliable equilibrium constants and first‐order interaction coefficients are obtained by minimizing the reactions between yttrium and the crucible while ensuring favorable kinetic conditions. The results confirm that the deoxidation product of yttrium in liquid iron is Y2O3, and the equilibrium constant for the reaction Y2O3(s) = 2[Y] + 3[O] can be expressed as follows: logKY(KYO=aY2aO3/aY2O3)=−63585/T+20.18, 1600−1700 °C$$ \mathrm{log}{K}_{\text{Y}}({K}_{\text{Y}}^{\text{O}}={a}_{\text{Y}}^{2}{a}_{\text{O}}^{3}/{a}_{{\text{Y}}_{2}{\text{O}}_{3}})=-63585/T&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;plus;20.18,&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;1600-1700&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;deg;\mathrm{C}$$. K′Y=([%Y]2[%O]3)$K &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;aposx;_{\text{Y}} &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;equals; \left(\right. \left(\left[\right. \% \text{Y} \left]\right.\right)^{2} \left(\left[\right. \% \text{O} \left]\right.\right)^{3} \left.\right)$ can be expressed as: logK′Y=logKY−(−31028/T+8.06)(3[%Y]+11.1[%O]), 0.003 wt%<[Y]<0.23 wt%$$ \mathrm{log}K{\prime }_{\text{Y}}=\mathrm{log}{K}_{\text{Y}}-(-31028/T&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;plus;8.06)(3[\%\text{Y}]&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;plus;11.1[\%\text{O}]),&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;0.003&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;\text{wt\%}&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;[\text{Y}]&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.23&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;\text{wt\%}$$. The first‐order interaction coefficient can be presented as: eOY=−31028/T+8.06$e_{\text{O}}^{\text{Y}} &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;equals; - 31028 / T &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;plus; 8.06$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its tendency to increase the power of engines, improving their reliability and operational efficiency, the compression ring in combustion engine pistons is embedded in a cast iron insert, which is subjected to the process of "alfining". This involves covering the insert with an Al–Si alloy, which increases the iron content. Research has shown that the β-Al5FeSi phases crystallizing in the area of the insert–piston connection are the main cause of an unstable connection between the silumin casting of the piston and the ring insert. Their unfavourable lamellar morphology and large dimensions are the main causes of weakening in the connection between the insert and the piston, resulting in an unacceptable number of defective products. It has also been found that up to approx. 0.59 wt.% Fe, the pore volume fraction is very small (up to 3%), and there is no correlation. However, after exceeding this value, both the volume fraction of the β-Al5FeSi phase and the number of pores increase monotonically to values of approximately 18% and 14%, respectively, and the correlation between the examined features is statistically significant. These results were compared with known theories of the influence of iron on the porosity of Al–Si alloys, showing that the precipitates of the β-Al5FeSi phase are more important in the porosity fraction than the two-layer oxide films called "bifilms". This research was carried out and verified under industrial conditions in one of the largest piston foundries (Federal-Mogul Gorzyce sp. z o.o., F-MG) on a separate line intended for alfining ring inserts intended for combustion pistons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the carbon–neutral goal in 2050, an accelerated transition of decarbonization is needed in the iron and steel industry. Lots of decarbonization path models are recently being used to analyze the technology pathways, industrial structure adjustments, and short- or long-term policies for greenhouse gas emission reduction. Thus, systematic insight is required for better making sense of the status quo and differences in low-carbon transition pathways at different levels. This paper reviews the carbon emission reduction of steel production routes and summarizes the decarbonization models from micro-, meso-, and macro-level perspectives, respectively. First, we systematically analyze the capacity and potential of both available and emerging technologies in the iron and steel production process. Additionally, we conduct a theoretical analysis of the bottom-up models currently used as effective tools to assess decarbonization technology pathways. Subsequently, pathways and models in terms of industrial synergy are elaborated. Policy guidance and market support are explored to overcome the challenges of collaborative carbon reduction faced by global steel producers. The characteristics of top-down models for supporting carbon reduction are also discussed. Finally, gaps in the literature and future research agendas are identified. Advancing this research could enrich discussions on steel industry decarbonization and provide clearer assessments of modeling approaches. The results indicate that existing energy-saving technologies in the iron and steel industry have limited carbon reduction capacity. Significant reduction requires coordinated efforts with upstream and downstream industries, particularly in hydrogen and power sectors, along with financial support and favorable policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the role of incumbent firms in driving transitions that entail multiple sectors, conditioned by multiple regimes. We analyse the case 'HYBRIT', a radical innovation venture championed by three incumbents from the steel and energy regimes. We investigate what conditions the incumbents' agency and how they enacted their agency targeting restructuring of the regime elements – actors, institutions, and materiality. We find that eight endogenous and exogenous factors coincide and condition the incumbents' agency, from which they act in a novel direction of change. We contribute by showing how the collaboration within and across regimes enabled the accomplishment of actions that would have been challenging for individual incumbents to achieve alone. In this setting of scale-intensive industries, incumbents have characteristics that give them a significantly larger capacity to stimulate change than newcomers. The timing and combination of endogenous and exogenous factors, enabling incumbents to collectively drive a transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iron and steel industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for about 7–9 % of the total emissions. This paper examines sustainable production methods in the iron and steel industry, focusing on decarbonization strategies and energy integration. It covers a wide range of alternative reductants to replace the conventional use of coal. Moreover, the paper highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with each approach. Additionally, it discusses the design modifications for coal‐based sponge iron plants, aiming to reduce coal consumption and waste gas generation while ensuring economic viability. This study provides a roadmap for transitioning to environmentally friendly, technically feasible, and economically viable iron and steel manufacturing processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of direct reduced iron (DRI), particularly with green hydrogen, is a key pathway to the decarbonization of the iron and steel industry. However, the sticking tendency during the production of DRI creates serious operational issues and limits production outputs. Coating inert materials on the surface of iron ores can act as a barrier to effectively prevent the bonding between newly formed iron surfaces, and can interfere with the formation of iron whiskers. However, the principle of coating has not been systematically studied. This review covers the mechanism of sticking in both shaft furnaces and fluidized bed-based gaseous DRI production. The factors that influence the reduction kinetics and morphology, including physical and chemical ore properties, pellet induration conditions, and reduction conditions are summarized as well. Understanding the relationship between these factors and morphology change is critical to eliminating the sticking issues of DRI. Findings from this study suggest that coating with inert additives (e.g., metal oxides) can successfully prevent sticking in both shaft furnaces and fluidized bed processes. The types of additives and coating methods, the stage of reduction where the coating is applied, and reduction temperature will dramatically affect the coating performance. The outlook is discussed as well given the need for further work to improve the performance of coating (methods, timing, and cheaper alternatives), to further de-risk DRI technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iron ore industry faces increasing electricity demand due to industrialization, making effective management of electricity demand crucial. This study proposes a temperature compensation model using Support Vector Regression (SVR), aiming to enhance the accuracy of sensors in monitoring electricity demand. An experiment is conducted to assess the impact of temperature on sensor measurements, and a modified Whale Optimization Algorithm is employed to correct the sensor outputs. The proposed model is compared with both PSOSVR and unimproved WOA-SVR. Results show that the proposed model significantly improves accuracy, achieving a determination coefficient of 0.7882 and a relative standard deviation of the error square sum of 4.6412%. The results of this study not only enhance power demand management in iron mining but also hold potential applications across various industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Iron & steel industry contributed the most for unintentional PCNs emissions • Overall upward trend of unintentional PCNs emissions from 1960 to 2019 was revealed. • Per-capita emissions follows the typical inverted U-shaped environmental Kuznets curves. • Low-chlorinated PCNs dominate emissions by mass, while it's high-chlorinated PCNs by toxicity. Polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) are detrimental to human health and the environment. With the commercial production of PCNs banned, unintentional releases have emerged as a significant environmental source. However, relevant information is still scarce. In this study, provincial emissions for eight PCNs homologues from 37 sources in the Chinese mainland during the period of 1960-2019 were estimated based on a source-specific and time-varying emission factor database. The results showed that the total PCNs emissions in 2019 reached 757.0 kg with Hebei ranked at the top among all the provinces and iron & steel industry as the biggest source. Low-chlorinated PCNs comprised 90% of emissions by mass, while highly chlorinated PCNs dominated in terms of toxicity, highlighting divergent priorities for mitigating emissions and safeguarding human health. The emissions showed an overall upward trend from 1960 to 2019 driven by emission increase from iron & steel industry in terms of source, and from North China and East China in terms of geographic area. Per-capita emissions followed an inverted U-shaped environmental Kuznets curve while emission intensities decreased with increasing per-capita Gross Domestic Product (GDP) following a nearly linear pattern when log-transformed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study conducted a life-cycle carbon assessment of the steel industry in China. • Carbon emissions of various phases from the steel industry were compared. • CO 2 emission intensity of crude steel in China reached 2.33 tCO 2 /t. • Optimized power structure and increased scrap ratio showed similar carbon reduction. China is the most important steel producer in the world, and its steel industry is one of the most carbon-intensive industries in China. Consequently, research on carbon emissions from the steel industry is crucial for China to achieve carbon neutrality and meet its sustainable global development goals. We constructed a carbon dioxide (CO 2) emission model for China's iron and steel industry from a life cycle perspective, conducted an empirical analysis based on data from 2019, and calculated the CO 2 emissions of the industry throughout its life cycle. Key emission reduction factors were identified using sensitivity analysis. The results demonstrated that the CO 2 emission intensity of the steel industry was 2.33 ton CO 2 /ton, and the production and manufacturing stages were the main sources of CO 2 emissions, accounting for 89.84% of the total steel life-cycle emissions. Notably, fossil fuel combustion had the highest sensitivity to steel CO 2 emissions, with a sensitivity coefficient of 0.68, reducing the amount of fossil fuel combustion by 20% and carbon emissions by 13.60%. The sensitivities of power structure optimization and scrap consumption were similar, while that of the transportation structure adjustment was the lowest, with a sensitivity coefficient of less than 0.1. Given the current strategic goals of peak carbon and carbon neutrality, it is in the best interest of the Chinese government to actively promote energy-saving and low-carbon technologies, increase the ratio of scrap steel to steelmaking, and build a new power system. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ozone‐depleting substances (ODSs) are well known as primary emission from the production and consumption of traditional industrial sectors. Here, we reported the unintentional emission of ODSs from iron and steel plants as a new source, basing on real‐world measurements of flue gases emitted from their major processes. The sintering was found to be the major emission process of ODSs, including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), halons, methyl halide (CH3Cl), methyl chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, methyl bromide and halogenated very short‐lived substances. The median emission factors of CFC‐113, CFC‐115, HCFC‐22, and CH3Cl for typical sintering processes are 1.7, 0.7, 44.5 and 237.0 mg/t, respectively. Quantum chemical calculation figures out that the ODS species are mainly formed in the low efficiency combustion process of halogenated materials. Annual amounts of ODS and CFC‐11‐equivalent emissions were estimated to be 1,785 tons and 78 tons in 2019 over mainland China, respectively. Given these findings, this study provides a new prospective on searching for ODS emission sources, especially unintentional sources such as iron and steel industry and other combustion related activities. Plain Language Summary: Ozone‐depletion substances (ODSs) are halocarbons that can damage the ozone layer. Although the tropospheric chlorine has been continuously declined, some halogenated organic gaseous species are still found to be increasingly emitted. This study firstly reports the unintentional emission of ODSs from iron and steel plants via real‐world measurements. ODS emission from the sintering process shows larger ozone depleting effect than that from ironmaking and steelmaking processes. The halogen‐containing iron ore, coke and fluxing agent provide mineral halogens for the generation of halogenated compounds, while the high temperature of combustion atmosphere in the sinter machine benefits for the chemical combination of halogens and hydrocarbons. Current air pollution control devices cannot effectively remove ODSs. This study aims at attracting attention to the identification and control of unintentional ODS emission sources in the future. Key Points: CFCs, HCFCs and halons were observed to be unintendedly emitted from iron and steel industryThe total CFC‐11‐eq emission from iron and steel industry was 78 tons over mainland China in 2019Homogenous gas‐phase formation routes of ODS species in flue gas were proposed and calculated [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the steel industry, summarizing and clarifying relevant research by previous academics about investment value. Firstly, based on qualitative research, this study investigated the macro, meso, and micro factors that affect the investment value of listed companies in the iron and steel industry through fundamental analysis. The second part studied the financial factors of listed companies in China's steel industry at the micro level through quantitative analysis. Ten evaluation indicators are selected from four aspects of growth capability, profitability, solvency and operating capability to establish the evaluation indicator system that reflects the comprehensive investment value of steel sectors on the Chinese stock main board. 28 steel companies listed on the main board are selected as research sample. Empirical analysis is conducted to study these selected sample companies through the factor analysis method and generate an investment value comprehensive score ranking in which Yongjin Co., Ltd is the top winner. The evaluation method adopted in this study is also applicable to investors in terms of analysis and decision-making to avoid risks and improve returns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The conventional iron and steel industry (ISI), driven by coal utilization as its predominant feedstock, constitutes a substantial source of greenhouse gas emissions. Hydrogen metallurgy presents the opportunity to mitigate carbon emissions in ISI from the origin. Among hydrogen metallurgical approaches, the hydrogen-based direct reduction iron (H-DRI) process stands out for its substantial carbon reduction capabilities and established technological maturity. The present paper provides a comprehensive review of the development and application surrounding the H-DRI process. Firstly, the main chemical reactions of H-DRI and the relevant important parameters are introduced. Subsequently, an overview is provided of several prominent H-DRI processes, including HYL, Midrex, Midrex-H2®, HYL-III, HYL-ZR, BL, and Finmet, elucidating their characteristics through comparative analysis. Moreover, some research results of H-DRI process optimization are summarized. Leveraging insights garnered from globally representative projects exemplifying the industrial deployment of H-DRI technology in recent years, the trajectory of and prospective trends for industrial development in the field of H-DRI processes are explored. Further, prevailing challenges and impediments encountered in the adoption of H-DRI processes are identified, culminating in strategic recommendations tailored towards fostering future advancements. In the long term, the H-DRI process is expected to become a key path to achieve ISI cleaner production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygeneration systems have significant potential for energy conservation and emission reduction and can effectively promote green and low-carbon development in energy-intensive industries, such as the iron and steel industry. However, its application faces the difficulty in technology selection under multiple objectives simultaneously, which is to determine the technology portfolio to achieve the synergy of energy conservation goals and air pollutant emission reduction goals, as well as ensure the economic benefits of the enterprises. This study investigated a case polygeneration system where the iron and steel plant are the core with four polygeneration paths and twenty polygeneration technologies. A multi-objective optimization model is developed to select the optimal technology combination of each polygeneration path under energy conservation, emission reduction, and cost control objectives, which is solved by the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSGA-II). The optimal results can reach significant energy conservation and emission reduction effects while obtaining economic benefits. However, synergistic and conflicting relationships among the objectives exist in both scales of iron and steel plants. The final decision scheme can achieve the mitigations equivalent to 15.9–27.1% and 16.3–42.6% of the energy consumption and air pollutant emissions of the steel enterprises with annual production of 3 Mt/a and 9 Mt/a, respectively. There are thirteen and twelve technologies that are selected as the final decision scheme in the polygeneration system in these two case enterprises. These findings demonstrate the significant roles the polygeneration system plays and provide critical insights and methodology in the technical selection of the polygeneration system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Hacettepe University Journal of Economics & Administrative Sciences / Hacettepe Üniversitesi Iktisadi ve Idari Bilimler Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Hacettepe University, Faculty of Economic & Administrative Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Iron and steel industry descale rolls long-term high-pressure water erosion, high temperature, easy to wear, corrosion failure and other problems, the continuous production of steel rolling impact, descale rolls base wall thickness is the main cause of cracking of the surfacing gradient lap organization. This article combines numerical simulation and experimental testing, the use of CALPHAD method to calculate the surfacing material temperature change physical parameters, based on the double ellipsoid heat source model, the establishment of the descale roller submerged arc surfacing process of multi-field coupling three-dimensional numerical model, calculations and reveal the descale roller submerged arc surfacing process of the temperature field, the stress field, the phase change field and the flow field of the transient evolution of the law, and further analyze the descale roller wall thickness of the surfacing process of the influence of the mechanism. Calculation results show that the depth of melting of the surfacing matrix is positively correlated with the width of the double ellipsoid heat source, and the larger the wall thickness, the faster the cooling rate, the greater the formation of residual stress. The austenite and martensite phase transformation of the overlay welding process is greatly influenced by the wall thickness. At the same time, SEM, EDS, XRD material science microcharacterization experiments were carried out to observe the micro-morphology, phase and elemental composition of the cladding layer. This study lays an important theoretical foundation for optimizing the submerged arc surfacing process of descale roller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a rising interest in the iron and steel industry in replacing fossil-based carbon carriers in their processes because they are the main origin of the anthropogenic carbon emissions within the industry. The use of bio-based carbon carriers could be one solution to partly tackle this challenge. Conventionally, biocarbon is produced by pyrolysis with fixed heating rate, pyrolysis temperature, and retention time. Although the mechanisms behind the formation of biocarbon and the decomposition temperatures of the main compounds of biomass-based materials are known, this knowledge is rarely being utilized in the design of commercial pyrolysis reactors, even though the pyrolysis mechanism-based approach increases the biocarbon yield. In this study, the mechanistic pathway of carbonization of lignocellulosic biomass is taken into account to produce biocarbon with higher yield and quality than conventional pyrolysis with the same process time. Results show that when the process time is the same in both methods, segmented pyrolysis increases biocarbon yield up to 5.4% within a pyrolysis temperature range from 300 °C to 900 °C. Also, fixed carbon yield increased 1.5% in this temperature area. When using segmented pyrolysis, the most suitable pyrolysis temperature is 700 °C based on the characteristics of the produced biocarbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating innovation and environmental responsibility has become important in pursuing sustainable industrial practices in the contemporary world. These twin imperatives have stimulated research into developing methods that optimize industrial processes, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness while mitigating undesirable ecological impacts. This objective is exemplified by the emergence of biochar derived from the thermo-chemical transformation of biomass. This review examines biochar production methods and their potential applications across various aspects of the iron and steel industries (ISI). The technical, economic, and sustainable implications of integrating biochar into the ISI were explored. Slow pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization are the most efficient methods for higher biochar yield (25–90%). Biochar has several advantages- higher heating value (30–32 MJ/kg), more porosity (58.22%), and significantly larger surface area (113 m2/g) compared to coal and coke. However, the presence of biochar often reduces fluidity in a coal-biochar mixture. The findings highlighted that biochar production and implementation in ISI often come with higher costs, primarily due to the higher expense of substitute fuels compared to traditional fossil fuels. The economic viability and societal desirability of biochar are highly uncertain and vary significantly based on factors such as location, feedstock type, production scale, and biochar pricing, among others. Furthermore, biomass and biochar supply chain is another important factor which determines its large scale implementation. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities to reduce emissions from BF-BOF operations by utilizing biochar technologies. Overall, the present study explored integrating diverse biochar production methods into the ISI aiming to contribute to the ongoing research on sustainable manufacturing practices, underscoring their significance in shaping a more environmentally conscious future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing CO 2 emissions of the iron and steel industry, a typical heavy CO 2 -emitting sector, is the only way that must be passed to achieve the 'dual-carbon' goal, especially in China. In previous studies, however, it is still unknown what is the difference between blast furnace-basic oxygen furnace (BF-BOF), scrap-electric furnace (scrap-EF) and hydrogen metallurgy process. The quantitative research on the key factors affecting CO 2 emissions is insufficient. There is also a lack of research on the prediction of CO 2 emissions by adjusting industrial structure. Based on material flow analysis, this study establishes carbon flow diagrams of three processes, and then analyze the key factors affecting CO 2 emissions. CO 2 emissions of the iron and steel industry in the future is predicted by adjusting industrial structure. The results show that: (1) The CO 2 emissions of BF-BOF, scrap-EF and hydrogen metallurgy process in a site are 1417.26, 542.93 and 1166.52 kg, respectively. (2) By increasing pellet ratio in blast furnace, scrap ratio in electric furnace, etc., can effectively reduce CO 2 emissions. (3) Reducing the crude steel output is the most effective CO 2 reduction measure. There is still 5.15 × 108-6.17 × 108 tons of CO 2 that needs to be reduced by additional measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slag and fly ash (FA) are mostly used as precursors for the production of alkali-activated materials (AAMs). FA is the waste discharged by power plants, while slag and steel slag (SS) both belong to the iron and steel industry. The effects of SS and FA on the strength, microstructure, and volume stability of alkali-activated slag (AAS) materials with different water glass modulus (Ms) values were comparatively investigated. The results show that adding SS or FA decreases the compressive strength of AAS mortar, and the reduction effect of SS is more obvious at high Ms. SS or FA reduce the non-evaporable water content (Wn) of AAS paste. However, SS increases the long-term Wn of AAS paste at low Ms. The cumulative pore volume and porosity increase after adding SS or FA, especially after adding FA. The hydration products are mainly reticular C-(A)-S-H gels. Adding SS increases the Ca/Si ratio of C-(A)-S-H gel but decreases the Al/Si ratio. However, by mixing FA, the Ca/Si ratio is reduced and the Al/Si ratio is almost unchanged. The incorporation of SS or FA reduces the drying shrinkage of AAS mortar, especially when SS is added. Increasing Ms increases the compressive strength and improves the pore structure, and it significantly increases the drying shrinkage of all samples. This study provides theoretical guidance for the application of steel slag in the alkali-activated slag material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

:To promote the resource utiiization of zinccontaining metallurgical dust and sludge in ron and steel industry, the zinccontaining metallurgccal dust and sludge with ron content of 30. 38% and zinc content of 4. 79% was studed by microwave reduction roasting-magnetic separaiion test. The experimental resutts show that t is difficult to reaize the effective separation of zinc and ron in Yin--containing metallurgccal dust and sludge by direct magneto separation wrthout roasting and convenional muffle furnace reduction roasting-magnetic separaion. When the microwave muffle furnace roasiing at 700 C for 15 min. The main phase in the roasted product Is Fe. When the magnetic field intenstty of the roasted product Is 150 mT,the zinc and ron in the zinccontaining metallurgccal dust can achieve better separaion. The concentrate index obtained by magnetic separation:the zinc content Is 2. 73%,the ron content Is 57. 84%, the ron recovery rate ss 88. 67%, tailings index of magneic separaion: the ron content Is 9.54%, the zinc content ss 9. 85 %, the zinc recovery rate Is 61. 72%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maritime transport is one of the traditional alternatives for moving heavy loads around the world. Providing long ranges with high capacity and low costs are regarded to be the most important superficies of the marine transport. However, similar to the other transporting facilities some environmental impacts arise from shipping and port operations. Waste reception facilities are essential in order to minimize and manage the environmental impacts on marine ecosystems. This work aims to evaluate the practices at a waste reception plant serving for iron and steel industry. In the study, the maximum waste amounts were determined individually for all types of vessels handled at the port. The calculated quantities of ship sewage, solid waste, bilge, sludge, and waste oil were approximately 17483, 59, 616, 1715, and 123 m3 /month, respectively. The actual and calculated amounts of ship-sourced solid waste were found to be 607 and 708 m3 /year, respectively. The closer values indicate that the current disposal facility is sufficient for the management of solid wastes. On the other hand, a significant difference was found between the actual and calculated data for liquid waste. The present situation and ways to improve the overall efficiency of the plant were evaluated in detail within the study [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morocco has made a concerted effort in previous years to produce renewable energy to meet market demand while protecting the environment and opening the route for circular economy. By-product from steel and iron industries in Morocco that employ electric arc furnace to produce steel is the focus of the present paper. It aims to study the possibility of using by-product "Electric Arc Furnace Slag" issued from Moroccan steel and iron industry as high-temperature sensible thermal energy storage material for the benefit of the same industry. In first, a fully characterization of the selected by-product has been performed. As a result, the filler material showed great thermophysical properties in terms of densities, thermal capacity, thermal diffusivity, and thermal conductivity. The bulk and skeletal densities are of around 3477.64 and 3913.9 kg m−3, respectively. The thermal capacity ranges between 0.3 and 0.85 kJ kg−1 K−1 for as-received by-product and from 0.6 to 0.9 kJ kg−1 K−1 for the by-product after thermal cycling. Its crystallographic structure and morphology remain similar to the one of EAF-slag studied in open literature. Thereafter, the material stability and suitability for high-temperature (up to 700 °C) thermal energy storage have been highlighted. The characteristics of EAF-slag after thermal cycling and isothermal study were compared to those of raw EAF-slag. Accordingly, the filler material is stable and able to store thermal energy at high temperatures. Equally important, thermal cycling impacts positively the filler material. Thanks to the oxidation to magnetite, the energy density of EAF-slag increases. More importantly, the material becomes more stable by exhibiting less than 1% of mass loss. Yet, few cracks were observed inside the cycled material. The investigation revealed that the fast-heating rate (superior to 5 °C min−1) is the main responsible. As a result, the authors recommend a slow heating rate especially for the first heating cycles of this by-product (around 2 °C min−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With its high energy consumption and pollutant emissions, the iron and steel industry is a significant source of air pollution and carbon emissions in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) region. To improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a series of policies involving ultra-low emission, synergistic reduction of pollution, and carbon application have been implemented in the region. This study has assessed air pollutant and CO2 emission patterns in the iron and steel industry of the region by employing co-control effects coordinate system, marginal abatement cost curve, and numerical modeling, along with the synergistic benefits of typical technologies. The results have demonstrated that: (1) the intensive production activities pertinent to iron and steel enterprises has contributed greatly to the emission in Tangshan and Handan, where the sintering process is the main source of SO2, NOx, PM2.5, and CO, accounting for 64.86%, 55.15%, 29.98%, and 46.43% of the total emissions, respectively. (2) Among the typical pollution control and reduction measures, industrial restructuring and adjustment of the energy-resource structure have led to the greatest effects on emission reduction. Technologies exhibiting great potential in emission reduction and high-cost efficiency such as Blast Furnace Top Gas Recovery Turbine Unit (TRT) need to be promoted. (3) In Tangshan city with the highest level of steel production, the iron and steel production activities contributed to the concentration of 30.51% of PM2.5, 50.67% of SO2, and 42.54% of NO2 during the non-heating period. During the heating period, pollutants pertinent to the combustion of fossil energy for heating have increased, while iron and steel induced emissions have decreased to 23.7%, 34.32%, and 29.13%, respectively. By 2030, it is speculated that the contribution of the iron and steel industry to air quality will be significantly decreased as result of successful implementation of ultra-low emission policies and typical synergistic reduction technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prehistoric and historic iron metallurgy in the Holy Cross Mountains in central Poland developed along with human Przeworsk Culture activity (during the Roman period) and within the boundaries of the Old-Polish Industrial District (OPID) during the Middle Ages and during recent centuries. At the Świślina catchment, there are many archaeological sites showing intense prehistoric metallurgical activity. The later medieval and modern iron industry was significantly smaller. At the Doły Biskupie site, slags and microscopic iron spherules (hammerscales) were found in alluvia. The microscopic spherules separation method (MSS) enabled analysis of these small artefacts created during iron ore smelting and forging. Iron spherules were detected in floodplain sediments, which are characterized by increased content of trace elements. The presence of these artefacts in shallow sediment layers in the confluence section of the river may be an indicator of archaeologically confirmed prehistoric metallurgical activity in the catchment area. Study of these residues enabled an attempt to reconstruct the river valley environment during the prehistoric and historical period. The MSS method can be used to detect iron spherules in alluvia in other river catchments, confirming the presence of yet-undiscovered bloomery sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibration in hot tandem rolling mills has been a problem in the iron and steel industry mainly due to its unpredictability. In this work, vibration data of the second finishing mill (F2) stand of a hot tandem rolling mill are collected and analyzed, and a mathematical model based on the coupling of a non-uniform deformation process, mill structure and hydraulic control system is constructed. The influence of different inlet thickness fluctuation forms, structural parameters and control parameters on the vibration behavior is analyzed. It is concluded that the low-frequency thickness fluctuation with additional skewness can cause the resonance of each subsystem of the rolling mill. The deviation angle of the roll system influences the vibration harmonic output of the rolling mill under a single low-frequency thickness fluctuation excitation. The compensation parameter in the thickness control system affects the natural frequency of the vertical system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Flash Ironmaking Technology (FIT) utilizing methane (CH4) and air blast (containing 21% oxygen) has been exclusively simulated and calculated for the Chadormalu Mining and Industrial Company (CMIC). The obtained results based on thermodynamic simulation and heat and material balance calculations of the FIT have revealed that a total rate of 70.405 tons/h preheated CH4 is required for the annual production of one million tons of hot metal with 95% metallization. 47% of the methane acts as a reducing agent, and the rest burns with 764.489 tons/h preheated air blast (including 20% excess) to provide 1078 GJ/h energy for running the process at 1600 ℃ (1873 K). Accordingly, 193.134 tons/h carbon dioxide (CO2) is emitted through the process, equivalent to 1.550 tons for every ton of produced hot metal. It indicates that the simulated FIT is eco-friendlier than the blast furnace and coal-based direct reduction ironmaking processes while eliminating coke-making, pelletization or gas-reforming units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring theoretical energy consumption introduces a fresh perspective for energy-saving research within the iron and steel industry, with a primary focus on the energy expended during material transformation. Building upon the theory of theoretical energy consumption, this study meticulously investigates the theoretical energy consumption associated with each stage of the iron and steel making process, including coking, sintering, pelletizing, ironmaking, steelmaking, and hot rolling. The findings reveal that, under specific conditions, the theoretical energy consumption for each process is as follows: coking (2.59 GJ), sintering (1.36 GJ), pelletizing (1.02 GJ), ironmaking (8.81 GJ), steelmaking (−0.16 GJ), and hot rolling (0.76 GJ). Additionally, this study delves into the analysis of influencing factors on theoretical energy consumption. Using the coking process as an illustrative example, it is observed that the theoretical energy consumption in coking decreases with a reduction in both moisture and volatile content in coal. Under the specified conditions, the minimum theoretical energy consumption for each process is as follows: coking (2.51 GJ), sintering (0.98 GJ), pelletizing (0.67 GJ), ironmaking (8.38 GJ), steelmaking (−0.58 GJ), and hot rolling (0.07 GJ), respectively. This comprehensive analysis serves as a valuable resource for advancing sustainable practices in the iron and steel industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main sources of redox gradients supporting high-productivity life in the Europan and other icy ocean world oceans were proposed to be photolytically derived oxidants, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) from the icy shell, and reductants (Fe(II), S(-II), CH4, H2) from bottom waters reacting with a (ultra)mafic seafloor. Important roadblocks to maintaining life, however, are that the degree of ocean mixing to combine redox species is unknown, and ROS damage biomolecules. Here, we envisage a unique solution using an acid mine drainage (AMD)-filled pit lakes analog system for the Europan ocean, which previous models predicted to be acidic. We hypothesize that surface-generated ROS oxidize dissolved Fe(II) resulting in Fe(III) (hydr)oxide precipitates, that settle to the seafloor as "iron snow." The iron snow provides a respiratory substrate for anaerobic microorganisms ("breathing iron"), and limits harmful ROS exposure since they are now neutralized at the ice-water interface. Based on this scenario, we calculated Gibbs energies and maximal biomass productivities of various anaerobic metabolisms for a range of pH, temperatures, and H2 fluxes. Productivity by iron reducers was greater for most environmental conditions considered, whereas sulfate reducers and methanogens were more favored at high pH. Participation of Fe in the metabolic redox processes is largely neglected in most models of Europan biogeochemistry. Our model overcomes important conceptual roadblocks to life in icy ocean worlds and broadens the potential metabolic diversity, thus increasing total primary productivity, the diversity and volume of habitable environmental niches and, ultimately, the probability of biosignature detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selective catalytic reduction of NOx by CO (CO‐SCR) holds considerable promise as a simple and cost‐effective technology capable of concurrently removing CO and NOx from mobile and stationary sources. This is especially pertinent for industry sectors with high CO emissions, such as the iron and steel industry, making CO‐SCR an attractive solution with significant industrial applicability. However, despite the promising industrial potential of CO‐SCR technology, its widespread adoption is hindered by several factors, most notably the impacts of SO2, H2O, and O2 on catalyst performance and stability. Current research on these limiting factors is not exhaustive, posing challenges for the comprehensive industrial implementation of CO‐SCR technology. Therefore, this review paper focuses on the variables impeding the industrial utilization of CO‐SCR, summarizing existing bottlenecks and emphasizing the urgent need to address the inhibitory effects of O2 on the CO‐SCR reaction, a critical issue in contemporary research. This review aims to clearly articulate the key challenges of CO‐SCR technology and provide direction for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iron industry is the largest energy-consuming manufacturing sector in the world, emitting 4–5% of the total carbon dioxide (CO2). The development of iron-based systems for CO2 capture and storage could effectively contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. A wide set of different iron oxides, such as hematite (Fe2O3), magnetite (Fe3O4), and wüstite (Fe(1−y)O) could in fact be employed for CO2 capture at room temperature and pressure upon an investigation of their capturing properties. In order to achieve the most functional iron oxide form for CO2 capture, starting from Fe2O3, a reducing agent such as hydrogen (H2) or carbon monoxide (CO) can be employed. In this review, we present the state-of-the-art and recent advances on the different iron oxide materials employed, as well as on their reduction reactions with H2 and CO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, I analyze the determinants that explained the growth in productivity of 30 producing companies in the Cuban iron and steel industry during the period 2016-2019. The study contributes to the empirical literature on the factors that explain the economic performance in the Cuban industry, specifically the iron and steel industry, for which there is scarce evidence. The results show that, during this period, this industry is characterized by a decrease in production (-9.1%), due to the decrease in the factors labor and materials and a small increase in Total Factor Productivity (1.3%) and physical capital (0.7%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]