IIT Dhanbad & Sentra.World Partner to Develop Biochar for Decarbonising Steel Production

IIT Dhanbad and sentra.world collaborate to develop biochar from biomass, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in steel manufacturing. The initiative explores sustainable alternatives to coal for eco-friendly steel production.

The research will involve studying biomass from more than 10 states to develop a process for the production of high-quality biochar for steel applications such as coke making, sintering, and sponge iron production.

IIT Dhanbad & Sentra.World Partner to Develop Biochar for Decarbonising Steel Production

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dhanbad and sentra.world have collaborated to undertake research initiatives focused on the decarbonisation of steel manufacturing processes. According to sentra.world, in a statement made on Thursday, the partnership focuses on the use of biochar as an environmentally friendly alternative for coal in the manufacturing process.

Biochar is the black carbon produced from biomass sources, which include agricultural waste products among others. The research shall entail characterizing biomass from more than 10 states and developing conversion processes to produce high-quality biochar that is suitable for all steel applications like coke making, sintering, sponge iron production etc., added Aayush Raj Sinha, Business Head, at sentra.world.

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The initial target is to use about 720 metric tonnes of surplus biomass available across the country, including agricultural residues like parali, or rice husk, he said. The contribution of India’s domestic steel industry to total greenhouse gas emissions is reportedly 8-12 per cent and 8 per cent globally. The government has been requesting research institutes and companies to conduct R&D activities aimed at decarbonising the steel industry and using waste substances in steel-making processes. Bengaluru-based sentra.world works on developing carbon management practices for the steel sector.

Conclusion

The partnership between IIT Dhanbad and sentra.world marks a significant step toward a sustainable future for the steel industry. Leveraging biochar as an eco-friendly alternative to coal, this research initiative aims to decarbonize steel production, therefore reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as part of efforts toward greener industrial practices in India. Collaboration not only showcases the potential of innovative research but also underlines the necessity of integrating environmental sustainability into industrial processes.