A groundbreaking innovation for climate-neutral steel production has reached a significant milestone. ZEQL (Zero Emission QuickLime), a collaboration between SMA Mineral and SaltX Technology, has produced the world’s first quicklime that is one hundred percent electric-powered.
– The successful production of electric-made quicklime is a major breakthrough for both ZEQL and Swedish engineering. It confirms that it is fully possible to reduce emissions from lime production using new technology, says Svante Fielding, CEO of SMA Mineral.
Lime is a fundamental raw material for many industries, including steel production, construction, and water treatment. By replacing fossil fuels with renewable electricity in the process of producing quicklime, ZEQL technology enables the possibility to drastically reduce emissions without compromising on quality or function.
SMA Mineral, in collaboration with Björneborg Steel, conducted successful tests in March using ZEQL lime in Björneborg Steel’s production.
The quicklime was produced at SaltX Technology’s test facility in Hofors and was briquetted at SMA Mineral’s own facilities to replicate the existing product format. The finished briquettes were delivered to Björneborg Steel, where the tests were carried out in a real production environment.
The results are very promising – ZEQL lime was used in several melting processes. Through careful analysis, it was concluded that the lime functions as expected and can replace traditionally produced quicklime, but with significantly reduced carbon dioxide emissions.
– Trials with ZEQL lime were conducted at Björneborg Steel in March with very positive results. The lime showed rapid dissolution in the melt and high refining capacity. We have conducted tests in both electric arc and ladle furnaces, where the results show that slag formation occurs as expected, and the basicity aligns with the product we normally use in our process, says Mikael Andreasson, Production Manager at Björneborg Steel.
– Together with SMA Mineral, we’ve taken a significant step towards a sustainable future. This technology has the potential to transform lime production and open the doors to a new era of sustainable fuels. It is incredibly inspiring to be part of this transition, says Lina Jorheden, CEO of SaltX Technology.
ZEQL technology enables the utilization of the carbon dioxide created in lime production for the manufacture of other products, such as jet fuel.
– Our ambition is for this technology to be not just a solution for the Nordic region, but a global opportunity to reduce emissions from lime production. ZEQL is a key player in the green transition, and we are confident that this technology will play a central role in the sustainable industry of the future, concludes Svante Fielding.
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Photo: SMA Mineral
SMA Mineral AB
Box 329
682 27 Filipstad
SWEDEN
