This two-stage process uses iron oxide (FeOx) to convert carbon-containing gas mixtures into hydrogen (H₂) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). Blast furnace gas, coke oven gas and converter gas can thus be processed to generate high-quality hydrogen.

If these gases are added to iron oxide nuggets under the right conditions, the iron oxide is reduced and carbon dioxide and steam are released.

FeOx + CO/H2 à FeO + CO2/H2O

The high-purity carbon dioxide produced during this process can be utilised as a material (CCU) or stored (CCS). The precondition for this green transformation of the steel industry is that the CCS Act, which is currently being revised, must authorise the storage of CO2 from the steel industry. This gives the steel industry the chance to make its production more climate-friendly without having to invest heavily in converting the entire process chain. This will ensure that steel production in Europe remains competitive despite the stringent climate protection requirements.