01/25/2026
A follower asked: "What are the health risks from the new EAF?"
Another follower replied:
"Electric arc furnaces (EAFs) in the steelmaking industry generate significant airborne pollution, primarily in the form of fine dust, metal fumes, and gaseous emissions. The main pollutants include particulate matter (PM), particularly PM2.5, which is rich in metal oxides, as well as greenhouse gases and organic compounds. Key Airborne Pollutants Particulate Matter (Dust/Fume): The primary pollution from EAFs is "EAF dust," often generated as fine, iron-rich, and heavy metal-laden particles during melting and refining. About 40% of this particulate matter is in the PM2.5 range.Heavy Metals: The dust contains significant amounts of hazardous metals, including zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), and mercury (Hg). Zinc-coated (galvanized) scrap is a major source of zinc emissions. Gaseous Emissions: Carbon Oxides: Carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_{2}\)) are generated from burning auxiliary fuel, oil on scrap, and electrode consumption. Nitrogen Oxides (\(\text{NO}_{x}\)): Produced at high temperatures. Sulphur Dioxide (\(\text{SO}_{2}\)): Resulting from raw materials. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): Chlorinated dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released due to the thermal degradation of organic materials in the scrap. Sources of Emission Primary Emissions: Generated during melting and refining, typically captured by a "fourth hole" in the furnace roof. Secondary Emissions: Generated during charging and tapping, usually captured by roof-mounted hood systems. Key Takeaways Hazardous Nature: EAF dust is considered a hazardous waste due to the presence of heavy metals. High Variability: The chemical composition of the emissions varies based on the type of scrap, input materials, and the specific steel grade being produced. Particle Size: Roughly 32–45% of the suspended particles are submicronic, making them highly respirable.
