The partnership focuses on the production of hydrogen-based plasma cast iron, a process that uses hydrogen and high-temperature plasma to reduce iron ore. without the traditional sintering, granulating or coking steps required in blast furnaces or even on some direct reduction routes. It offers the potential for a more compact and energy-efficient processing scheme and could provide Fortescue with an additional route to produce low-carbon iron compatible with its Pilbara ore products.
Pilot production line for up to 5,000 tons of molten iron per year
Under the agreement, Fortescue and TISCO will jointly design, build and operate a pilot industrial test line with an annual capacity of up to 5,000 tons of molten iron.
Fortescue will also fund the development program and form a joint technical committee with TISCO and other partners to lead the project.
