CSIRO and Swinburne invest in green steel and mineral processing to help industry get to net zero
The new partnership will tackle global decarbonisation with innovative green steel and mineral processing research and development.
Australia’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions receives a significant boost as the country’s national science agency, CSIRO, and Swinburne University of Technology forge a new partnership. The collaboration aims to spearhead research and development in innovative green steel and mineral processing, contributing to global decarbonisation efforts. The ‘Sustainable Mineral Processing and Green Steel Program,’ is set to make strides in addressing key challenges faced by the mineral resources industry on its path towards net zero.
Building Science Capability :
Under the Towards Net Zero Mission, the partnership is poised to build national research capability, fostering collaboration across the Australian innovation system. By delving into low-emission steel technologies, the collaboration will guide future demonstrations and industry development. The program will play a pivotal role in developing low-carbon routes for iron, steel, and critical metals, while also enhancing recycling technologies. This research is crucial for one of Australia’s hardest-to-abate industries and forms part of our Towards Net Zero Mission.
“To support decarbonisation efforts within the minerals industry we need new R&D partnerships that bring together new capabilities, ” says Keith Vining who is the Process Decarbonisation Research Group Leader.
Expertise at the Helm:
The research program will be lead by Swinburne’s Professor Geoffrey Brooks, a recipient of the Bessemer Gold Medal, will serve as the Chair, bringing his expertise in sustainable steelmaking. CSIRO’s Process Decarbonisation Research Group Leader Keith Vining and Dr. Suneeti Purohit, an award-winning expert in steelmaking using solar power, will oversee CSIRO’s research efforts. Additionally, Swinburne’s Professor Akbar Rhamdhani, will support with his expertise in sustainable processing.
International Collaboration:
The program will foster international collaboration through conferences and industry courses, creating opportunities for researchers, students, and industry professionals to engage. Scholarships, joint final year projects, and work experience programs will provide students with valuable hands-on experience in this critical field.
“Swinburne is thrilled to be working with CSIRO on another program, this time using our combined strength in decarbonisation and green steel. The university has a long-standing relationship with CSIRO, linking world-class capability across a vast range of strategic research areas”, says Swinburne Chief Scientist Professor Virginia Kilborn.
“I’m expecting Swinburne and CSIRO to play a key role in Australia’s drive towards green steel and producing critical metals in a sustainable manner. It’s a great time for innovation and implementing new ideas, says joint Swinburne/CSIRO Chair Professor Geoffrey Brooks.
Conclusion: The CSIRO and Swinburne partnership marks a significant step forward in Australia’s efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. By combining their expertise, these institutions are poised to make meaningful contributions to the development of green steel technologies and sustainable mineral processing, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.