What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to optimize hydrogen reduction of saprolite for efficient nickel recovery while minimizing carbon emissions.

January 18, 2026Scientific ReportsOpen Access

Sustainable production of battery-grade nickel via hydrogen reduction of saprolite

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Investigation reveals hydrogen reduction improves nickel recovery in saprolite, indicating a pathway for low-carbon smelting.

The aim is to optimize hydrogen reduction of saprolite for efficient nickel recovery while minimizing carbon emissions.
Utilized a dynamic reduction system to study hydrogen reduction behavior of saprolite ore.
Systematically evaluated variables including reduction time, temperature, gas flow rate, and particle size.
Focused on maximizing nickel pig iron recovery and phase separation from silicate slag.
Particle size was identified as the critical factor influencing diffusion resistance in the reduction process.
Achieved about 20 wt% mass loss in optimal conditions at 900 °C within 15 minutes.
Produced high-grade nickel pig iron with Fe ~ 73 wt% and Ni ~ 25 wt%, effectively separating from silicate slag.

Park et al. (2026) studied this question.

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