India to develop pure-hydrogen based DRI tech for green steel making

India is exploring the development of its own pure-hydrogen-based Direct Reduction of Iron (DRI) technology for the production of green steel. This initiative aims to create a process unique to the country, aligning with its commitment to sustainable practices in the steel industry. The detailed project report for this endeavor is currently under scrutiny across various ministries, indicating careful consideration and evaluation of the proposed technology. This highlights India's dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility in its industrial development efforts.

Industrial-scale hydrogen-iron making, also known as direct reduction of iron (DRI) using hydrogen, involves the removal of oxygen from iron ore. Unlike traditional methods that use high carbon-emitting fossil fuels, this process utilizes hydrogen, with the waste gas being eliminated as water. The resulting DRI, also known as sponge iron, is then fed into an electric arc furnace where electrodes generate a current to produce steel. This approach significantly reduces carbon emissions and promotes more environmentally sustainable steel production.

"This technology is still in the development phase, and various ministries such as the Ministry of Steel and MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy), along with industry players including integrated steelmakers and secondary steelmakers, are collaborating to initiate pilot projects on the ground".

Sources familiar with the discussions reveal that a pilot plant utilizing pure hydrogen-based DRI making is being proposed in a "consortium mode." This consortium involves integrated steel players, secondary players, and CSIR Lab (Council for Scientific & Industrial Research) for the development of the technology and necessary intellectual property (IP)."The scheme has been approved by MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy) last month."