University of Birmingham and CBMM collaborate on carbon recycling

The University of Birmingham and Brazilian Niobium producer CBMM have launched a joint project to develop scalable carbon recycling technologies that could significantly reduce industrial emissions. The collaboration focuses on advancing Niobium-based materials for use in energy- and carbon-intensive sectors, with a particular emphasis on steel production.

At the heart of the research is a closed carbon-loop process that uses Niobium-based perovskites to convert CO₂ emissions from industrial processes into carbon monoxide (CO), which can be reintroduced into the production cycle. This approach has the potential to cut emissions by up to 90% when applied to existing blast furnace operations.

“This partnership represents an important step in the search for viable and sustainable solutions to the challenges facing global industry,” said Leonardo Silvestre, Executive Innovation Manager at CBMM. “The use of Niobium in carbon recycling aligns with our broader commitment to innovation and sustainability.”

The project is led by Professor Yulong Ding, Chamberlain Chair of Chemical Engineering at the University of Birmingham, whose team previously modelled the use of Niobium perovskites for industrial decarbonisation. Unlike other materials, the perovskite developed by the researchers offers 100% selectivity for CO production, enhancing process efficiency and eliminating unwanted by-products.

One of the key advantages of the technology lies in its retrofit potential. By integrating with existing infrastructure, it avoids the need for complete system overhauls, enabling faster adoption and reducing investment risks. The system also operates at lower temperatures than conventional methods, promising improved energy efficiency and cost savings.

“Foundation industries such as steel-making are among the hardest sectors to decarbonise,” noted Professor Ding. “This project aims to deliver a technically feasible and commercially viable solution with strong environmental benefits.”

The research will also explore broader applications of the Niobium-based perovskites in other foundation industries. Outcomes from the project will support the development of PeroCycle, a University of Birmingham spin-out backed by Anglo American and supported by Cambridge Future Tech.

CBMM’s role in the partnership includes scaling up Niobium compound production to meet future commercial demand. As a global leader in Niobium technologies, the company brings extensive experience in materials science and industrial deployment.

The project underscores growing interest in practical decarbonisation strategies for high-emission sectors and highlights the role of advanced materials in enabling energy transition pathways.

Source: University of Birmingham, Photo: Fotolia