Efficient Resource Use: The Link Between Raw Materials and By-products in the Green Transition
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Luleå tekniska universitet - Luleå tekniska universitet Inst f samhällsbygg & naturresurser |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 840 000 |
| Project duration | October 2024 - June 2025 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Impact Innovation Metals & Minerals - Program-specific efforts Vinnova |
| Call | Impact Innovation: Feasibility studies within Technological Action Areas in the program Metals & Minerals |
Important results from the project
The overall objective of the project was: •to identify and map research gaps related to specific elements and their properties in the new fossil-free steel value chain. •to develop a deeper understanding of how these elements are distributed and concentrated and affect side streams. •to formulate recommendations for future research and development efforts in this area. All objectives have been met and the project also contributed to increased collaboration in other areas.
Expected long term effects
The project is expected to contribute to a more resource-efficient and sustainable steel production through increased understanding of the behavior of trace elements in fossil-free processes. This enables better utilization of by-products, reduced waste and lower environmental impact. The results strengthen the circular economy, innovation and security supply of critical raw materials.
Approach and implementation
The project was carried out as a pre-study in close collaboration divided into five work packages. In addition to workshops with stakeholders, literature review and simulations of process pathways, gap analysis and sustainability analysis were also carried out. Thermodynamic calculations were used to map the behavior of trace elements. The results are synthesized in a final report including proposals for future research projects in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.