Are you an innovative startup or research group with groundbreaking ideas for a sustainable future in the iron and steel industry? VA Erzberg and EIT RawMaterials are inviting you to apply to the VA Erzberg Net-Zero Challenge, a unique opportunity to propose sustainable methods for the future use of carbonate iron ore from Europe’s largest open-pit iron ore mine in Eisenerz, Austria.
The challenge: Innovate for a sustainable future
The iron and steel industry is a cornerstone of the European economy, supporting 2.6 million jobs and contributing €132 billion annually. As the European Union aims for carbon neutrality by 2050 and seeks to reduce its CO2 emissions by 55% by 2030, the urgent decarbonisation of the iron and steel sector is essential.
Regions like Austria, where VA Erzberg is located, have extensive mineral iron carbonate reserves. However, the traditional carbonate ore reduction process includes a calcination step, which impacts the steelmakers’ Scope 3 emissions.
Therefore, VA Erzberg, in collaboration with EIT RawMaterials, is calling for innovative startups and research groups to submit ideas and proposals on reducing CO2 emissions from carbonate iron ore processing.
Who should apply?
We are looking for startups, RTOs, and universities with advanced technologies (at least Level 5 on the TRL scale) or early-stage solutions offering innovative proofs of concept. This is your chance to present commercial solutions and join the journey towards a sustainable future in iron ore mining and steel production.
Key Challenges to Address:
- Iron Ore Calcination and Reduction: Innovative eco-efficient methods for Erzberg’s iron ore calcination and reduction, improving efficiency and reducing emissions.
- CO2 Off-Gas Treatment: Advanced technologies to capture and utilise CO2 emissions during the processes.
- Byproduct Valorisation: Innovative methods to valorise CO2 and other byproducts from Erzberg in the steel or other industries.
Benefits for Winners
Winning proposals will receive significant support, including:
- Funding: Paid proof-of-concept for technical feasibility, funding for further research, including sponsored Master’s or PhD projects, and potential for long-term collaboration.
- Visibility and Networking: Showcase solutions directly to industry experts and gain valuable feedback to further develop your solution.
- Expert Coaching: The top three candidates will receive coaching from industry and business experts from VA Erzberg and EIT RawMaterials.
Timeline
The application
Register on the application portal by 29 September 2024 with a description of your proposed solution and its potential impact. Ten candidates will be selected to pitch their ideas at an online event in October. Three finalists will then present their solutions at the final event in Eisenerz, Austria in early December, where two winners will be selected.
This is your opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future in one of Europe’s most crucial industries. Apply now and be part of the change!
Read the orginal article: https://www.eu-startups.com/2024/07/calling-startups-and-rtos-apply-to-the-va-erzberg-net-zero-challenge-for-a-sustainable-steel-future-sponsored/
