Doctoral Network on the adoption of Hydrogen mEtalLurgy In the climate-neutral production Of Steel - HELIOS

DC6: Hydrogen plasma as green alternative reductant in the Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) process for stainless steel

Project title: Hydrogen plasma as green alternative reductant in the Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) process for stainless steel (WP2)

Host Institution: KU Leuven

Country: Belgium

Supervisor: Annelies Malfliet (KUL) – Co-supervisors: Bart Blanpain (KUL), Guillaume Lefebvre (APER), Michael Zarl (K1MET)

Objectives: 

  • Investigate the reduction phenomena of Cr and other elements in slag by HPSR;
  • Determine the efficiency of chromium-oxide reduction by hydrogen plasma as a function of slag and process characteristics;
 

Expected results: 

  • Proof of concept of the reduction of Cr2O3 in synthetic slags;
  • Relation between chromium oxide reduction efficiency as a function of slag composition and process characteristics;
  • Reduction phenomena during HPSR of Cr2O3-containing slag;
 

Enrolment in Doctoral degree(s): LU Leuven Arenberg Doctoral School

Planned secondments:

Host: Aperam; Supervisor: Guillaume Lefebvre, Steven Dilliën; Timing: M9-11; Length: 2 months; Purpose: Insights in current functioning of AOD process + extensive industrial AOD stainless steel slag characterization

Host: K1-MET; Supervisor: Michael Zarl; Timing: M8; M16; Length: 1+1 months; Purpose: Lab-scale tests on HPSR of Cr2O3-based materials

Candidate requirements: 

  • You hold a master’s degree in materials engineering, metallurgy or chemical engineering or master in chemistry or geology.
  • You have a strong scientific background and are committed to high quality research.
  • You want to use your skills and knowledge to develop new and greener ways to produce stainless steel.
  • You are excited about doing high temperature experiments, characterize samples, analyze data and interpret your findings.
  • You are ambitious, well organized and have excellent communication skills.
  • You speak and write fluent English and have the ability to work effectively and collaboratively.
  • You are an enthusiastic and motivated person, ready to participate in personal trainings, international travel and public awareness activities.
Apply now!