Process design and utilisation strategy for CO2 capture in flue gases. Technical assessment and preliminary economic approach for steel mills

The steel industry is the most relevant sector in emerging economies due to its application in numerous fields. However, steel manufacturing involves large energy investment and produces significant greenhouse gas emissions. The current world economic and environmental scenario therefore necessitates that improvements in the footprint of the steel industry be made without affecting its viability. Considering the present challenge, we report two possible processes for Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU). The first process is the competitive capture of CO2-SO2, followed by CO2 valorisation to methane. However, the CO2 capture capacity and lifetime for the adsorbent after multiple cycles could be improved through preliminary desulphurization of the gas current. The improved system demonstrates net profitability in a typical stainless steel plant. Therefore, it can be implemented in an industrial setting without profitability loss to steelmaking operations, fulfilling bot the goal of reducing CO2 emissions while protecting the mainstay of the plant.

Automated summary

The steel industry, crucial to emerging economies, faces challenges due to its high energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This study proposes two Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) processes for improving the industry's footprint without compromising its viability. The first process involves capturing CO2-SO2 and converting it into methane, with additional benefits demonstrated through enhanced adsorbent capacity and lifetime. These findings indicate that implementing the improved CCU system in stainless steel plants can reduce CO2 emissions without affecting profitability.