Clariant, a sustainability-focused specialty chemical company, has renewed its collaboration [1] with Midrex, a global leader in direct reduced iron (DRI) technology, to advance low-carbon steel production. The renewed partnership aims to enhance DRI technology, which offers a cleaner alternative to conventional coal-based ironmaking.
DRI technology enables the direct reduction of iron ore without melting, significantly lowering carbon emissions compared to traditional steelmaking methods. The process utilizes MIDREX Reformers in combination with Clariant’s REFORMEX Catalysts, which improve efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and minimize CO2 output. This approach helps avoid approximately one ton of CO2 emissions per ton of crude steel produced.
Georg Anfang, Vice President of Syngas & Fuels at Clariant Catalysts, stressed the importance of natural gas-based DRI as a transitional technology for achieving net-zero steel production. He noted that while the companies are focused on optimizing their current solutions, they are also preparing for future innovations.
Sean Boyle, Vice President of Commercial Operations at Midrex, highlighted the reliability of the MIDREX Process, which is widely used for producing various forms of DRI. He stated that Clariant’s catalysts are specifically designed to enhance the process, ensuring consistent performance and the lowest CO2 emissions among steelmaking technologies.
Midrex, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been a leading provider of DRI plants and technology for over 50 years. Its facilities play a crucial role in global low-carbon iron production. The MIDREX Process can be adapted for natural gas with hydrogen addition and for full hydrogen use , allowing flexibility in reducing emissions.
Clariant’s Catalysts have been integral to the MIDREX Process since the 1980s, demonstrating high performance, superior heat transfer, and mechanical durability. These catalysts are currently in operation at around 50 major steel plants worldwide, contributing to more sustainable steel production.
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[1] Clariant & Midrex fortify partnership in DRI to decarbonize the steel industry https://www.indianchemicalnews.com/chemical/clariant-midrex-fortify-partnership-in-dri-to-decarbonize-the-steel-industry-25935