Reduction of emissions from blast furnaces by using blends of coke and babassu charcoal

Abstract Carbonization of whole babassu coconuts yields a biomass feedstock of exceptional hardness, and almost sulfur-free, which could be used in blast furnaces after blending with conventional coke. This would result in decreases in the emissions of sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen and carbon dioxide as well as improved steel quality. Even though a total substitution appears possible from the chemical and mechanical standpoints, the amount of biomass necessary precludes this possibility in the immediate future.