Unprecedented CO2 emission cuts are needed to reach net-zero emissions between 2050 and 2100. In Norway, Si, FeSi and Mn-alloy production released up to 2.6 million tonnes CO2 equivalents in 2019, 4.5% of the Norwegian total. By generating new knowledge and creating the necessary tools, BioMet will enable the use of biocarbon as reductant in existing processes.
In this work, SINTEF will carry out experimental and modelling work to tackle various key challenges related to the use of biocarbon. Biocarbon's chemical reactivities against SiO and CO gases are studied, as well as the effects of the use of biocarbon on the material and gas flows in the furnace. On the modelling side, SINTEF will work on a digital twin including empirical kinetic data on the HSC Sim software.
The project gathers the main silicon and ferroalloy producers in Norway; Elkem, Wacker, Finnfjord and Eramet, through FFF's participation (The Norwegian Ferroalloy Producers Research Association). Their active involvement will increase the potential for industrialisation of the research results.
The project is funded by the Research Council of Norway.
