Using Process Simulation to Support Decarbonization in the Steel Industry

Abstract Being a major contributor to industrial CO 2 emissions, the iron and steel industry needs to transition towards CO 2 -lean processes to achieve the carbon neutrality goal of the European Green Deal for 2050. Process simulation serves as a powerful tool for modelling and evaluating decarbonization strategies in this transition. This contribution explores a potential stepwise decarbonization pathway for the Austrian steel industry using the flowsheet simulation software gPROMS (General PROcess Modeling System). The transition from the carbon-intensive blast furnace (BF)-basic oxygen furnace (BOF) route to electric arc furnace (EAF)-based steelmaking is modelled, integrating hydrogen-based direct reduction (DR) and carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies. The analysis evaluates the CO 2 reduction potential and the changes in external energy demand for each scenario, including natural gas, electricity, and hydrogen. The findings of this study provide a strong basis for evaluating the European steel industry’s energy demands during its transition towards sustainable steel production.