Kailai Chen PhD completion

We extend our sincere congratulations to Dr. Kailai Chen on the successful completion of his Doctor of Philosophy, awarded for his thesis entitled “Modelling and Analyzing Effects of Raw Material Properties in Ironmaking Blast Furnaces.”

This research constitutes a significant contribution to the mission of the Process Technology Laboratory (PTL), led by A/Prof Kuang, to advance more efficient and low-carbon blast furnace (BF) ironmaking. Dr. Chen developed a cross-scale framework linking laboratory measurements of burden properties with industrial-scale blast furnace process design and optimisation. This was achieved through the integration of laboratory-scale  characterisation of ironmaking raw materials, the tailoring of key reaction models based on laboratory measurements, and process design and optimisation using our blast furnace process model incorporating tailored reaction models.

Conventionally, burden configuration in operating blast furnaces has relied predominantly on laboratory characterisation of raw  materials. Dr. Chen’s research extends this paradigm by enabling the utilisation of laboratory-scale measurements in process design and optimisation. The developed framework provides rigorous guidance for burden material selection, blending strategies, and in-furnace distribution control. It represents an important milestone for the Process Technology Laboratory. This work will support our ongoing efforts to develop advanced control and optimisation strategies for low-carbon blast furnace operations.

We commend Dr. Chen on this outstanding achievement and look forward to continued collaboration with our industry partners to apply these methodologies, enhance the utilisation of lump ore and pellets, and contribute to the reduction of CO₂ emissions.