Influence of Coal Characteristics on Coke Formation in Indonesia’s Steel Industry

Indonesia possesses abundant coal resources with diverse characteristics, which directly influence their potential in the steel industry, particularly in metallurgical coke production. Coke serves as both a reducing agent and a crucial fuel in the blast furnace process, requiring specific coal qualities such as high fixed carbon content, low sulfur content, good caking ability, and sufficient thermoplastic properties. However, Indonesian coal is predominantly sub-bituminous and lignite, which are limited for coking purposes. This paper examines the influence of coal characteristics on coke formation, evaluates the potential of Indonesian coal, including coking coal prospects in Muara Teweh, Central Kalimantan, for metallurgical applications, and reviews strategies for enhancing coal utilization to achieve competitive coke production. Furthermore, the role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in developing a sustainable coke industry is also discussed. Findings suggest that enhancements in beneficiation processes, coal blending strategies, and ESG integration can improve domestic coke self-sufficiency while promoting sustainable development.