Belgium – Lhoist Group, one of the world’s largest producers of limestone, dolomite and other minerals wants to produce the first low-carbon dolomite in Marche-les-Dames, Wallonia. The Globe project requires an investment of 250 million euros. Initially, the company will build an industrial furnace for dolomite production using oxyfuel technology. Later, it will also install a CCS plant.
Combustion with oxygen instead of air allows Lhoist to produce the dolomite more efficiently. The resulting gas is rich in CO2 – which is easier to capture and transport. This is the first time dolomite will be produced in this way. The project consists of two phases. In the first phase, Lhoist will start up the kiln and associated dolomite storage and loading facilities in 2027. The furnace will initially run on natural gas. Later, the company will switch to biomass. The kiln will have a capacity of 700 tons per day.
In the second phase, starting in 2031, the company will install CO2 capture plant. The captured CO2 can then be disposed of and stored under the North Sea. These measures should ensure a total CO2 reduction compared to 2023 by 80 percent.
The entire project involves an investment of more than 250 million euros. For the first phase, the company is estimating 150 million euros. The second phase will cost about 100 million euros.
The company has now started applying for permits and conducting an environmental impact study.
The dolomite that Lhoist produces in Marche-les-Dames finds application in the steel industry to remove impurities such as phosphorus and sulfur. It also increases the energy efficiency of the plants.
