Rio Tinto is taking a bold step towards decarbonizing the steel industry with a $215 million investment in a new research and development (R&D) facility in Western Australia’s Rockingham Strategic Industrial Area.
Revolutionary BioIron Process: Replacing Coal with Biomass
The facility will focus on trialing Rio Tinto’s groundbreaking BioIron process, which utilizes raw biomass such as wheat straw and canola stalks to convert Pilbara iron ore into metallic iron for steelmaking. This innovative process eliminates the need for coking coal, a major source of carbon dioxide emissions in traditional steelmaking, potentially reducing emissions by up to 95%.
Scaling Up Proven Technology
After successfully demonstrating the BioIron process in a small-scale plant in Germany, Rio Tinto is expanding its efforts with a semi-industrial scale pilot plant in Perth. This new facility will be ten times larger than its predecessor, paving the way for commercial-scale implementation.
The BioIron facility aims to create approximately 60 construction jobs and employ around 30 full-time staff. This investment will contribute to developing a skilled workforce in low-carbon steelmaking, supporting the region’s economic growth.
Government and Industry Leaders Champion Project
Premier Roger Cook praised the project, emphasizing Western Australia’s potential to lead the world in low-emission steelmaking. “Our plan to transform WA into a renewable energy powerhouse unlocks significant economic opportunities, such as producing low-emission steel right here at home,” he stated.
Rio Tinto Chief Executive Iron Ore, Simon Trott, highlighted the importance of BioIron technology in achieving global net-zero emissions goals. “The world needs low-carbon steel to reach net zero, and we are committed to making this a reality,” he said.
Commitment to a Clean Energy Future
This project aligns with the Western Australian government’s commitment to transitioning the industrial strip towards a clean energy future and diversifying the state’s economy.
Rockingham MLA Magenta Marshall welcomed the project, stating: “The Cook Labor Government is securing the jobs of the future in Rockingham by bringing major new projects to our industrial strip. This cutting-edge technology will strengthen our local economy and create local jobs.”
With the global steel industry facing increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, the BioIron facility in Western Australia represents a significant milestone in the development of sustainable and low-emission steelmaking processes.