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Green Milestone in Ferroalloys Production with Biocarbon
In a groundbreaking industrial campaign, Vargön Alloys, under the Bio4SAF project funded by the Swedish Energy Agency, has successfully implemented biocarbon into its FeCr production process, marking a substantial stride towards sustainability in the ferroalloys sector. This initiative led to the production of approximately 350 tons of biocarbon-chromite briquettes, replacing about 20% of the traditionally used fossil coke with biocarbon in the submerged arc furnace operations.
The campaign was characterized by rigorous planning and execution, ensuring the smooth functioning of the furnace while closely monitoring various operational parameters such as off-gas composition, temperature, and dust generation. “This innovative approach not only supports the industry's shift from fossil-based to bio-based solutions but also significantly reduces fossil CO2 emissions, says the project coordinator Elsayed Mousa, Swerim. It not only champions a greener production method but also showcases the effective collaboration and innovative spirit of all partners involved.”
As a ferroalloy producer, Bio4SAF demonstrates an excellent and innovative way of implementing biocarbon. It showcases how minor process changes can positively influence one's carbon footprint. Bio4SAF's achievements are an essential milestone for Vargön Alloys AB's sustainability roadmap. "We at Vargön have set an ambitious goal of reducing our fossil CO2 emissions linked to reductants by 30% by 2030. Therefore, the outcome of Bio4SAF is a crucial milestone in our sustainability journey," says Annelie Papadopoulos, Manager Process Metallurgy, Quality and Environment at Vargön Alloys AB.
Envigas’ contribution in supplying high-quality biocarbon, progressing from small-scale trials to large-scale implementation, underscores the importance of long-term collaboration and innovation in advancing biocarbon applications. This initiative sets a strong precedent for further decarbonization efforts in the metallurgical industry. "This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in reducing fossil CO₂ emissions in metallurgical processes," says Tobias Brink, Head of Business Development at Envigas.
This successful campaign marks the conclusion of the three-year Bio4SAF project, with participants from Vargön Alloys, Envigas, and the metal research institute Swerim. Elsayed Mousa, at Swerim, remains committed to advancing biocarbon utilization, promising more innovations in the future.
For more details or to get involved, please contact Elsayed Mousa at Swerim.