Rio Tinto and China Baowu successfully completed industrial-scale trials using Pilbara Blend iron ore for hydrogen-based steelmaking. The tests took place at Baowu’s facility in China.
The results prove that mid-grade ores from Western Australia are viable for low-carbon production. This achievement challenges the long-held industry view that only high-grade ores are suitable for hydrogen-based direct reduction technology.
The trials fulfill a 2023 memorandum of understanding aimed at decarbonizing the global steel industry. Rio Tinto Vice President Ramona Sim identified the milestone as a key step toward using electric smelting furnaces to reduce manufacturing emissions.