The purpose of this RFI is to solicit input for a potential future ARPA-E-funded research program focused on novel technical approaches to produce iron metal (Fe) from iron-containing ores, which can create new technology pathways to enable future net-zero GHG emissions steelmaking at global scale. ARPA--E is interested in targeting ironmaking processes that have both: (a) a clear near-term value proposition – the production of high- value steels or ferrous alloys – and (b) a credible path to long-term commodity iron and steel production.
ARPA-E is interested in current knowledge gaps and technological barriers to the successful development and/or deployment of ironmaking technology concept(s), including, but not limited to: electrometallurgical ironmaking routes, pyrometallurgical ironmaking routes, biomass-based ironmaking routes, thermochemical reductants, metallothermic reduction, drop-in approaches, and enabling technologies for novel ironmaking. ARPA-E is also interested in input about about processes upstream of ironmaking, including novel iron ores and ore processing.
Due to the potential initial cost premium of zero-emissions approaches, ARPA-E is interested in learning about high-value iron-based alloys/steel compositions that could provide a near-term value proposition on the path to ultimate bulk iron/steel production. Examples might include: electrical steels (i.e. silicon steels), magnetic steels, stainless steels, high-purity iron alloys, advanced high-strength steels, high- entropy alloys, and/or powder forms of such steels. ARPA-E is also interested in understanding what parameters of a lab-scale novel ironmaking technology are needed to make a compelling case for further investment.
Responses to this RFI should be submitted in PDF format to the email address ARPA-E-RFI @hq.doe.gov by 5:00 PM Eastern time on June 14, 2021.
THIS IS A REQUEST FOR INFORMATION ONLY. THIS NOTICE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FUNDING OPPORTUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT (FOA). NO FOA EXISTS AT THIS TIME.
Respondents shall not include any information in the response to this RFI that could be considered proprietary or confidential.