Stanford’s role de-risking zero-emissions steel production

Steelmaking accounts for about 8% of global CO₂ emissions due to its reliance on coal-based blast furnaces. Although hydrogen-based direct reduction (HyDR) methods offer a pathway to decarbonization, their widespread adoption has been hampered by complex processes and unpredictable reactor performance, often inadequately modeled by existing simulations.

This project focuses on developing multiscale models validated through experimental data to advance the commercialization of HyDR for steelmaking. By integrating insights across structural, chemical, and transport modeling – from nanopore dynamics to full reactor performance – this project aims to enhance reactor design and improve HyDR efficiency. The team will work with external partners to expedite the time to market for these innovations, which could mitigate 200 netric tons of CO2 annually if adopted globally.