The University of Toronto’s engineering department has made a groundbreaking discovery in the realm of steel recycling that could revolutionize the manufacturing industry and help combat carbon emissions. In a recent study published in the journal Resources, Conservation & Recycling, researchers unveiled a novel technique for electrorefining steel that could significantly reduce impurities and promote a circular steel economy.
Lead by Professor Gisele Azimi, the team introduced an innovative oxysulfide electrolyte that allows for the removal of copper and carbon impurities from molten steel, while also generating liquid iron and sulfur as by-products. This method marks the first instance of electrochemically removing copper from steel and reducing impurities to below alloy level.
With global demand for sustainable steel on the rise, this new technique could not have come at a better time. Traditional steel production processes are major contributors to carbon emissions, with current methods generating nearly two tonnes of CO2 per tonne of steel produced. By improving the efficiency and sustainability of steel recycling, the team at the University of Toronto is paving the way for a greener future in manufacturing.
The potential impact of this research is vast, as it could expand the secondary steel market into various industries by allowing for the creation of higher-grade steel products. Collaborating with industry leader Tenova Goodfellow Inc., the team is already looking towards the future, aiming to further refine their technique to remove additional contaminants from steel.
Overall, the development of this new steel recycling technique offers a promising solution to the environmental challenges posed by traditional steel production. With the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote a more sustainable manufacturing sector, the University of Toronto’s research is a major step towards a cleaner, greener future.
