Steel making was largely a development of the 19th century, with the invention of melting processes. Today, steel production is an index of national prosperity and the basis of mass production in many other industries. However, the steel industry is a very energy intensive sector that generates dust and fumes at many points of its manufacture process. Therefore, techniques to save energy and reduce the production of pollutants are crucial.

Steel plays an essential role in the infrastructure of modern life. Buildings, from bungalows to skyscrapers, depend on steel’s strength and longevity; transport infrastructure such as railways and ships on its resistance to moisture and temperature change; food packaging on its hygienic aspects; and domestic appliances on its versatility and attractive appearance.

BAMBOO will test innovative solutions in the Spanish demo site of Avilés managed by the local ArcelorMittal company. The aim is twofold:

• improving combustion efficiency to reduce current fossil fuel consumption, the related emission of pollutants and the corresponding environmental taxes.
• recovering waste heat from other processes in the plant to use energy efficiently and cut operation costs