A national initiative to make steel production greener and more sustainable has launched at Monash University with the establishment of the ARC Research Hub for Smart Process Design and Control.
Steel is essential to global infrastructure, but its production generates eight percent of the world’s CO2 emissions. The Hub brings together researchers from Monash, Macquarie University, University of Queensland, UNSW, and Western Sydney University, alongside industry partners including Rio Tinto, Baowu Steel and China Steel Corporation, to develop smarter, low-emission steelmaking processes while supporting the long-term resilience and competitiveness of Australian iron ore.
Hub Director, Professor Sankar Bhattacharya, from Monash University's Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, said the Hub would create smarter, cleaner and more efficient steelmaking processes.
“This Hub will create smarter, cleaner and more efficient steelmaking processes. By combining simulation, AI and industrial testing we can transform one of the world’s most critical industries to use diverse Australian ore while keeping Australia at the forefront of sustainable innovation,” Professor Bhattacharya said.
“Collaboration between universities and industry can tackle one of the most urgent climate challenges while keeping Australia – and Australian iron ore – competitive in global markets.”
The Hub also aims to train the next generation of engineers and researchers to lead Australia’s transition to a low-emission industrial economy.
Steel production is a critical part of Australia’s economy, with iron ore exports accounting for 18-20 percent of national export income. By making steelmaking sustainable, the Hub not only addresses climate change but also strengthens Australia’s position in the global steel supply chain.
Monash University researchers have an established track record in low-carbon industrial technologies. To celebrate the opening of the Hub, the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering hosted an international conference from 29 November - 1 December. The conference featured 100+ presentations from Australia, China and Korea.