The Direct Reduction process can be carried out using syngas from biomass. Mathematical models of the integrated process gasification plus direct reduction have been used to evaluate flow rate, temperature and composition of the gas in the various steps of the whole process. Fluidised bed gasification and operation with technological oxygen at high pressures is the proposed solution to produce syngas. Best candidates for such application are biomass from forest and wood industry and agricultural residues. Both of such type of biomass are present and distributed in many European areas in such amount to make industrially possible their use, taking into account the logistic requirements. A cost between 30-60 Euros/t DRI is roughly estimated.
The characteristics of the syngas implies the adoption of purification steps, before the use of the syngas in the shaft furnace, using technologies permitting hot gas cleaning, to save energy efficiency of the process.