Back to the future with emerging iron technologies

Abstract

Here is a comprehensive overview of iron's potential in low-carbon energy technologies, exploring applications like metal fuel combustion, iron-based batteries, and energy-carrier cycles, as well as sustainable approaches for production and recycling with a focus on reducing environmental impact. Iron, with its abundance, safety, and electrochemical characteristics, is a promising material to contribute to a decarbonized future. This paper discusses the advancements and challenges in iron-based energy storage technologies and sustainable iron production methods. Various innovative approaches are explored as energy storage solutions based on iron, like advancements in thermochemical Fe–Cl cycles highlight the potential of iron chloride electrochemical cycles for long-term high-capacity energy storage technology. Additionally, the utilization of iron as a circular fuel in industrial processes demonstrates its potential in large-scale thermal energy generation. Sustainable iron production methods, such as electrolysis of iron chloride or oxide and deep eutectic solvent extraction, are investigated to reduce the carbon footprint in the iron and steel industry. These findings also show the importance of policy and technology improvements that are vital for the widespread use and recycling of iron-based tech, stressing the need for collaboration toward a sustainable future.