BioShare is proud to participate in a groundbreaking research project focused on producing hydrogen and biochar from forest residues using a novel approach based on the steam-iron reaction (SIR) and iron ore concentrate. This technology has the potential to become a cornerstone in the shift toward sustainable energy and materials, with applications in green steel production and negative-emission technologies.
The core concept is to integrate biochar production with hydrogen generation in a fluidized-bed reactor system. When biomass is converted to biochar through pyrolysis, a gas rich in CO, H₂, CH₄ and CO₂ is formed. Instead of burning this gas, the project explores using it as a fuel in a chemical looping process — the SIR — where iron oxide particles (derived from Swedish iron ore) are used to carry oxygen through the system.
Through a cycle of reduction and oxidation, these iron particles react with the product gas and steam to yield pure hydrogen and a concentrated stream of biogenic CO₂, ready for capture or reuse. The result is a robust, scalable system for clean hydrogen production that also locks carbon in the form of stable biochar — enabling both energy generation and climate mitigation.
The project includes:
- Experimental research on the redox performance of iron ore concentrate with biomass-derived gases
- Development of a novel counter-current fluidized-bed reactor
- Process design and techno-economic analysis for industrial-scale applications
The project is led by Chalmers University of Technology in collaboration with BioShare AB and supported by LKAB. Chalmers contributes deep research expertise in fluidized-bed processes and hydrogen production, while BioShare provides industry insight and engineering capacity for process design and integration with heat and power plants. LKAB supplies Swedish iron ore and supports long-term circularity goals.
With Sweden’s access to forest resources, advanced industrial base, and experience in biomass energy, this project presents a unique opportunity to develop exportable green technology. The end goal is to deliver the technical foundation for a pilot-scale demonstration, enabling the production of biochar and hydrogen using domestic, renewable resources — and to support the decarbonization of industries such as iron, steel, and district heating.