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Smelting Barriers: The Innovators Forging a New Future for Iron and Steel
The steel industry, responsible for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, faces a critical need for decarbonization as demand is projected to rise 39% by 2050. While integrated blast furnaces (BF-BOF) dominate production, the report identifies Hydrogen-DRI as the only current net-zero commercial technology, though it struggles with high costs and hydrogen availability. The authors propose a three-pronged innovation strategy: 'Make Less' (circularity and alternative materials), 'Make Better' (retrofitting and improving DRI), and 'Make New' (disruptive low-temperature and modular furnaces). To overcome capital intensity, the report suggests startups target high-margin niche products like high-purity iron and monetize industrial waste streams to gain commercial traction.
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Document type: Report