Sustainable, high‑activity Zinc Oxide from industrial side‑streams
SEEZn scales a one‑step process that extracts advanced ZnO directly from EAF dust and other spent materials, cutting energy use and emissions while unlocking a regional supply of high‑surface‑area ZnO for tires, catalysts and adsorbents.
About the Project
The steel sector generates significant Electric Arc Furnace Dust (EAFD). SEEZn valorizes this stream by recovering high‑purity ZnO at much lower temperatures than conventional routes, enabling a resilient, EU‑based supply.
Problem
EAF dust is hazardous waste yet rich in valuable metals, with current recovery routes being energy‑intensive.
Solution
One‑step ZnO recovery between 95–400°C, avoiding Zn metal intermediate and heavy thermal steps.
Outcome
Advanced ZnO with high activity that reduces dosage needs by 10–15% in end‑use applications.
Technology Highlights
Low‑temperature process
Operates around 100–350°C (up to 400°C in some steps) vs 1100–1300°C for typical pyrometallurgy.
Direct ZnO recovery
Skips metal‑stage reduction and re‑oxidation. Fewer steps, lower CAPEX stress, improved uptime.
High‑activity product
High surface area ZnO (50 m²/g) suitable for sorbents, catalysts and vulcanization activators.
Benefits & KPIs
Lower energy & CO₂
45% less energy and 40% fewer emissions vs benchmarking technologies.
Material efficiency
High‑activity ZnO enables 10–15% lower dosing or extended service life in applications.
Waste reduction
Diverts large volumes of EAFD and other spent materials from disposal into value chains.
Use Cases & Markets
Tires & Rubber
Efficient vulcanization activator for durable, high‑performance compounds.
Gas Purification
Active ZnO sorbents for H₂S removal and polishing duties.
Catalysis
ZnO and mixed oxides as precursors for industrial catalysts.
Consortium
Technology provider, end‑users and sustainability experts working together across RIS countries.
