Green steel-making is an innovative approach to steel production that focuses on significantly reducing carbon emissions when compared to traditional methods. This shift is crucial for addressing climate change and promoting sustainability in the steel industry.
Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) is a process that involves removing oxygen from iron ore to produce sponge iron. This method is integral to modern steel-making, as it allows for the creation of high-quality iron with less environmental impact.
Hydrogen-based DRI is distinct from conventional methods as it utilizes hydrogen to eliminate oxygen from iron ore, rather than relying on high carbon-emitting fossil fuels. This process produces water as a waste product, significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
The production of steel through hydrogen-based DRI consists of two primary steps:
The National Green Hydrogen Mission is an initiative by the Indian government aimed at promoting the production and utilization of green hydrogen across various industries, including steel-making. This mission is pivotal for enhancing sustainability in the sector.
The Steel Ministry of India has allocated ₹455 crore (approximately $55 million USD) for pilot projects focusing on green steel-making. These projects will explore innovative production methods and technologies.
India's pilot projects are exploring three main steel-making methods:
Green steel-making is vital for reducing the steel industry's carbon footprint, which is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. Transitioning to greener methods is essential for sustainable development.
A consortium led by the Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT) is at the forefront of India's first green steel-making initiative, showcasing the country’s commitment to sustainable practices in the steel sector.
In the hydrogen-based steel production process, electric arc furnaces play a crucial role. These furnaces utilize electrodes to generate a current that melts the DRI, facilitating the production of high-quality steel.
Q1. What is green steel-making?
Answer: Green steel-making involves methods that significantly reduce carbon emissions during steel production, promoting sustainability and addressing climate change.
Q2. How does hydrogen-based DRI differ from traditional methods?
Answer: Hydrogen-based DRI uses hydrogen instead of fossil fuels to remove oxygen from iron ore, producing water instead of carbon dioxide, thus minimizing emissions.
Q3. What funding has been allocated for green steel projects in India?
Answer: The Indian Steel Ministry has allocated ₹455 crore (around $55 million USD) for pilot projects focused on advancing green steel-making technologies.
Q4. Why is the National Green Hydrogen Mission significant?
Answer: This mission aims to promote the use of green hydrogen in various industries, including steel-making, enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon footprints.
Q5. Who is leading the green steel initiative in India?
Answer: The Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT) is leading the first green steel-making initiative in India, driving innovation in sustainable practices.
Question 1: What is the primary goal of green steel-making?
A) Increase steel production
B) Reduce carbon emissions
C) Use more fossil fuels
D) Enhance traditional methods
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What does DRI stand for in steel-making?
A) Direct Reduced Iron
B) Dynamic Reinforced Iron
C) Deficient Raw Iron
D) Direct Reinforced Input
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: Which waste product is generated from hydrogen-based DRI?
A) Carbon dioxide
B) Water
C) Methane
D) Sulfur dioxide
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How much funding has the Indian government allocated for green steel pilot projects?
A) ₹100 crore
B) ₹455 crore
C) ₹500 crore
D) ₹300 crore
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is a key advantage of using electric arc furnaces in green steel production?
A) Lower cost
B) High emissions
C) Efficient melting of DRI
D) Requires fossil fuels
Correct Answer: C
Kutos : AI Assistant!
