LISTEN 02:38
April 30, 2024

WPI has been awarded a $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) under the Revolutionizing Ore to Steel to Impact Emissions (ROSIE) program. The DOE funding aims to propel advancements in zero-process-emission ironmaking and ultra-low life cycle emissions steelmaking. 

Led by Yan Wang, William Smith Foundation Dean's Professor of Mechanical Engineering, alongside collaborators Brajendra Mishra, Kenneth G. Merriam Distinguished Professor of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, and the Director of the Metal Processing Institute, and Adam Powell, associate professor of mechanical and materials engineering, the team will delve into manufacturing technologies for low-carbon electrolyzed iron powder. This specialized powder is integral to the production of iron-silicon electrical steel, a crucial component in various industries. 

This initiative underscores the urgency for cleaner iron and steel production methods in the United States. With mounting concerns over environmental impact and climate change, transitioning to low-emission steelmaking processes is imperative. The ROSIE program represents a significant step towards achieving this goal. 

WPI's project is among the 13 selected nationwide, with a combined funding allocation of $28 million. By fostering innovation and research in sustainable steel production, initiatives like ROSIE pave the way for a greener, more resilient industrial landscape. In addition to WPI, Phoenix Tailings (Woburn, MA), Form Energy (Somerville, MA) and Tufts University received grant funding.  

In a press release issued by the Massachusetts Governor’s Office, Maura Healy and Senator Edward Markey say these awards celebrate Massachusetts as a leader in clean energy.