Tata Steel Trials Biomass for Sustainable Ferrochrome Production

Tata Steel successfully conducts a biomass usage trial for eco-friendly ferrochrome production in Odisha.

Tata Steel has conducted a successful trial using biomass for ferrochrome production at its plant in Athagarh, Cuttack district, Odisha, taking a significant step towards sustainable practices.

JAMSHEDPUR – Over the weekend, Tata Steel carried out a test at its Athagarh Ferrochrome Plant in Odisha’s Cuttack district, experimenting with the use of biomass in the production of ferrochrome.

This plant, which belongs to the company’s Ferro Alloys and Minerals Division (FAMD), is pioneering the use of biomass as a sustainable alternative to conventional carbon sources in India.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in decreasing the carbon footprint of ferrochrome production. Organic materials were harnessed as biomass to serve as a substitute for traditional fossil fuels.

The switch is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 0.08 tons per ton of ferrochrome, accounting for approximately 6% of the plant’s overall emissions.

"This trial is in line with our dedication to sustainability and our continuous endeavors to reduce carbon emissions. "Our goal is to create a cleaner and more sustainable production process by incorporating biomass, which will help us build a greener future," said Pankaj Satija, Head of FAMD at Tata Steel.

The project utilizes carbon-neutral biomass, generated through the combustion of wood at low temperatures in an oxygen-deprived setting. The carbon emitted during the process is balanced out by the carbon taken in by the trees from which the biomass is obtained.

"This transition to biomass represents a significant achievement in our ongoing commitment to sustainability," expressed Satija. "We are committed to continuously seeking and implementing new and creative solutions to improve our environmental performance and operational excellence."

FAMD has been committed to environmental initiatives for many years, always working towards minimizing its ecological footprint. Partnering with FluxGen Sustainable Technologies, our division has successfully digitized water usage by implementing a digital dashboard across our Ferrochrome units and mines.