The project explores the potential of using an Iron Fuel Boiler system. This system burns iron powder to generate sustainable heat for industrial applications such as hot water, steam, or hot air. The residual product—rust—can be converted back into iron using hydrogen, after which it can be reused in the system. This circular process offers a sustainable solution for industrial heat production. Based on preliminary calculations, implementing this technology could save approximately 10,000 tons of CO₂ annually and reduce nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) emissions by around 66% compared to conventional gas-fired boilers.
Project background
The manufacturing company in Vlissingen aims to significantly reduce its CO₂ emissions and is therefore exploring alternative, sustainable solutions for industrial heat. Burning iron powder emits no CO₂, which helps lower greenhouse gas emissions. Appel van Randen from RIFT explains: “We are developing iron fuel technology—a form of metal combustion that can be used off-grid. This enables the generation of sustainable heat without putting additional pressure on the electricity grid. It provides a solution to grid congestion and makes it possible to deliver various types of industrial heat in a sustainable way while reducing emissions.”
