Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has initiated an industrial trial at its Durgapur Steel Plant (DSP) in West Burdwan, using bamboo biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More as a partial replacement for coke breeze in the sintering process. This marks a first for the Indian steel industry in integrating biochar to reduce fossil fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions.

The trial, launched in Sinter Plant No. 2, follows extensive laboratory and pilot-scale testing at SAIL’s R&D Centre in Ranchi. Conducted over 4-5 days in two phases, it aims to replace 10-20% of the coke breeze with bamboo biochar. If successful, the approach could cut CO₂ emissions by 15-20% per tonne of crude steel produced. Since biochar is derived from biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More, its use in steelmaking could contribute to a more sustainable carbon cycle.

This initiative aligns with India’s decarbonization goals and SAIL’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. The success of this trial could serve as a model for the steel industry, demonstrating the potential of biochar as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.

The trial’s inauguration was attended by senior officials from DSP, Alloy Steels Plant (ASP), Indian Steel Plant (ISP), and the Ministry of Steel, alongside representatives from various unions and departments. If the results prove effective, bamboo biochar could become a key component in greener steel production in India.

LEARN MORE: DSP commences trial with bamboo biochar to reduce CO2 emissions