Metallurgical Coke Production with Biomass Additives: Study of Biocoke Properties for Blast Furnace and Submerged Arc Furnace Purposes

Biocoke has the potential to reduce the fossil-based materials in metallurgical processes, along with mitigating anthropogenic CO2- and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Reducing those emissions is possible by using bio-based carbon, which is CO2-neutral, as a partial replacement of fossil carbon. In this paper, the effect of adding 5, 10, 15, 30, and 45 wt.% biomass pellets on the reactivity, the physicomechanical, and electrical properties of biocoke was established to assess the possibility of using it as a fuel and reducing agent for a blast furnace and submerged arc furnace purposes. The findings indicate that the introduction of biomass additives can significantly enhance the properties of biocoke, potentially leading to more sustainable practices in metallurgical industries. This research contributes to the understanding of biocoke's applications and its role in reducing environmental impacts associated with traditional coke production. The results reveal that biocoke can serve as an effective alternative, thereby supporting the transition towards greener metallurgical processes.