In the second episode, Astrid, Mike and James interview Stephen Montague, the CEO of Midrex Technologies, a globally renowned, US-based steel plant designer and developer specialised in Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) processes. Midrex and its DRI technology are a critical part of The Green Steel challenge. Owned by Japanese steelmaker Kobe Steel, Midrex has a strong research focus on low CO2 ironmaking. In 2022, it partnered with Sweden’s H2 Green Steel to supply them technology for a DRI plant running fully on hydrogen.

This episode is an open and fascinating appraisal of the role that this company – a company jointly founded by Willy Korf – will play in the decarbonisation of the steel industry around the world. Montague offers a unique insight into how and where steel will be produced and the key issues and constraints in achieving society’s aims.

A Glossary of terms featured in this episode and throughout The Green Steel Challenge podcast is now available via Kallanish Commodities.