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Highlights
Hawsons Iron initiates research partnership with CSIRO under Kick-Start Program
Project to assess pellet quality and tailings mineral content from magnetite concentrate
Work supports development of high-grade green steel feed products
Australia’s iron ore exploration and development sector welcomed a fresh collaboration as Hawsons Iron Ltd (ASX:HIO), a company listed on the All Ordinaries, confirmed the start of a strategic research project with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). The initiative is part of the CSIRO’s Kick-Start Program, designed to support innovative businesses in Australia.
This initiative is expected to support Hawsons’ efforts to refine its green steel magnetite concentrate into high-performance iron pellets suitable for blast furnaces and direct reduction applications.
Dual-Stream Research Targets Pellet and Tailings Composition
The project focuses on two critical streams. The first examines the physical and metallurgical properties of green pellets produced from Hawsons’ magnetite concentrate. Test work will include balling, preheating, and roasting, as well as evaluation of firing profiles at a larger scale to generate sufficient material for further assessment.
This research intends to confirm the pellet quality for use in iron-making technologies with lower carbon emissions, aligning with Hawsons Iron’s focus on sustainable steelmaking inputs.
Simultaneously, the study will investigate the chemical and mineral characteristics of the tails fraction — the non-magnetic residue left after magnetite extraction. The aim is to identify the dominant iron-bearing mineral in the tailings, assess how well it is liberated during processing, and evaluate its association with other minerals, including phosphorus.
Focus on Hematite Byproducts and Downstream Dialogue
Hawsons has linked this research to broader commercial goals. Outcomes from the tailings evaluation are expected to support discussions around hematite byproduct viability, opening avenues for further product streams beyond magnetite concentrate.
The company also views the pelletisation studies as a crucial step in progressing talks with downstream stakeholders, especially those interested in high-value green pellets suited to modern steelmaking processes.
Green Steel Strategy Tied to Infrastructure and Market Trends
Hawsons’ flagship project is strategically located near major infrastructure in New South Wales and is positioned to supply magnetite concentrate with a reduced emissions profile. The company has signalled an ambition to produce feedstock that aligns with evolving demand in the green steel segment.
While global iron ore markets may experience fluctuations due to changes in Chinese steel production and trade dynamics, Hawsons is advancing initiatives that may provide resilience through product differentiation and environmental alignment.
