DRI (Direct Reduced Iron) process

The Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) process involves converting iron ore into a more pure form of iron called sponge iron. Iron ore, primarily iron oxide, is exposed to a reducing gas—usually a mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide—that removes oxygen from the ore. This occurs at high temperatures in a furnace, but without melting the ore completely. The resulting DRI is porous, malleable, and used as a raw material in steelmaking. This process is energy-efficient and produces less greenhouse gas than traditional blast furnaces. DRI plays a crucial role in steel manufacturing, especially where natural gas is available.