Safe H-DRI - Safe transport of DRI from H2-based direct reduction considering quality-related H-DRI reactivity, stability, the efficiency of passivation methods and health and recycling aspects

©Safe H-DRI project consortium

Initial situation:

The project focuses on overcoming key challenges in the safe handling, transport and storage of H-DRI and minimizing risks such as self-heating, ignition and explosions. By researching innovative passivation methods and the reuse of H-DRI fines, safety, sustainability and efficiency shall be improved throughout the steelmaking value chain.

Project targets:

  • Development of innovative solutions to handle H-DRI produced using hydrogen.
  • Development of methods for the reuse of H-DRI fines
  • Contribute to positioning the EU steel industry as a global leader in low-carbon technologies.

Innovative approaches:

BFI has the following innovative tasks in the project:

  • Investigation of different iron ore qualities for production of H-DRI pellets (reduction)
  • Agglomeration of selected fines feedstock to produce small-scale, pellet-sized samples
  • Passivation trials in the hot state e.g. by carburisation with carbonaceous gases
  • H-DRI high temperature reoxidation trials in lab/technical scale at different temperatures and inertisation conditions

Benefits for the industry:

  • The efficiency of passivation methods to prevent hazards and risks from reoxidation (self-heating, ignition, local explosions) during transport and related handling will be quantified.
  • The innovative knowledge regarding H-DRI behaviour will contribute to an updated transport system standardization and extend existing or new transport guidelines.

Further information about the project:
Project duration: 1.10.2024 bis 31.03.2028

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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