BHP, a diversified mining company, has announced a partnership with China Baowu and Monash University to establish an Industry Knowledge Centre aimed at accelerating the deployment of technology capable of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from steel production. The centre will focus on scientific research, pilots, and plant-scale trials to develop effective carbon abatement technology.
BHP will be the main funding partner, providing $8 million over three years, while China Baowu will offer in-kind support for the initial phase of work. Monash University will serve as the administrator through its existing Monash Suzhou Research Institute and will manage the virtual collaboration between the Industry Knowledge Centre’s Australian and Chinese campuses.
The Industry Knowledge Centre’s main objective is to enable real-world testing and assessment of CO2 abatement technologies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from steel production using the blast furnace route. It will evaluate various options, including recycling of process gas, low-carbon hydrogen injection, renewable energy sources, and carbon capture and utilization technology. The goal is to support China’s integrated steel plants in reducing their CO2 emissions.
The centre will review funding applications from partner institutes in Australia, China, and other countries. It aims to promote the sharing of research and trial outcomes, as well as bring together academic and industry partners to support successful demonstrations and the subsequent commercialization of eco-friendly technologies for steel production.
Additionally, the Industry Knowledge Centre will work closely with China Baowu’s Global Low-Carbon Metallurgical Innovation Alliance to identify project opportunities and promote results.
Dr. Rod Dukino, BHP’s VP of Sales & Marketing Sustainability, emphasized the importance of research and industry partnerships to mitigate CO2 emissions in steel production. He stated that the collaboration with China Baowu and Monash University represents a significant step in developing technologies that can effectively reduce emissions.
Dr. Mao Xiaoming, Executive Deputy Director of China Baowu’s Low Carbon Metallurgy Innovation Center, highlighted the company’s commitment to collaborating with partners to implement low-carbon technologies and transition to a sustainable, lower carbon world. As the world’s largest steelmaker, China Baowu aims to play an active role in reducing carbon emissions throughout the steelmaking value chain.
The establishment of the Industry Knowledge Centre with BHP and Monash University strengthens the longstanding relationship between the companies and sets an example of joint efforts in promoting technological innovation and sustainability.
This partnership demonstrates a commitment from industry leaders and academia to address the significant environmental impact of steel production. By investing in research, testing, and collaborative efforts, the Industry Knowledge Centre aims to drive the development and adoption of technologies that can effectively reduce CO2 emissions in the steel industry.
The fight against climate change requires global cooperation and innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With BHP, China Baowu, and Monash University joining forces, there is hope for significant progress in the steel industry’s efforts to combat climate change. The Industry Knowledge Centre’s focus on scientific research, pilots, and plant-scale trials will pave the way for a more sustainable future in steel production.
