A national initiative to make steel production greener and more sustainable has launched at Monash University.
While steel is essential to global infrastructure, its production generates eight per cent of the world’s CO₂ emissions.
The recently established ARC Research Hub for Smart Process Design and Control brings together researchers from Monash, Macquarie University, University of Queensland, UNSW and Western Sydney University – alongside industry partners including Rio Tinto, Baowu Steel and China Steel Corporation – to develop smarter, low-emission steelmaking processes while supporting the long-term resilience and competitiveness of Australian iron ore.
ARC Research Hub for Smart Process Design and Control Director, Professor Sankar Bhattacharya, said the hub will create smarter, cleaner and more efficient steelmaking processes.
“By combining simulation, AI and industrial testing, we can transform one of the world’s most critical industries to use diverse Australian ore while keeping Australia at the forefront of sustainable innovation,” he said.
“Collaboration between universities and industry can tackle one of the most urgent climate challenges while keeping Australia – and Australian iron ore – competitive in global markets.”
The hub also aims to train the next generation of engineers and researchers to lead Australia’s transition to a low-emission industrial economy.
Steel production is a critical part of Australia’s economy, with iron ore exports accounting for 18-20 per cent of national export income according to Monash University.
By making steelmaking sustainable, the hub not only addresses climate change but also strengthens Australia’s position in the global steel supply chain.
To celebrate the opening of the Hub, Monash University’s Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering hosted an international conference from 29 November to 1 December.
The conference featured more than 100 presentations from Australia, China and Korea.
In other news, Australia Post has officially opened its newest parcel delivery centre in Perth, Western Australia.
