South African petrochemicals company Sasol said this past week that it was partnering with steel pipe maker ArcelorMittal of South Africa to explore carbon capture technology and steel production using green hydrogen.

ArcelorMittal products for oil and gas pipelines are used to transport crude oil, petrochemical products, water and gases – including natural gas, CO2 and hydrogen. The characteristics of the steel required depend on the final application and can include high tensile strength, resilience at low temperatures or hydrogen crack resistance. Good weldability, good formability and consistent properties are also required to make line pipes that consistently meet performance requirements.

Sasol is the world's biggest producer of fuel products and chemicals from coal, but is transitioning away from the fossil fuel as part of its decarbonisation plan. ArcelorMittal South Africa is Africa's biggest steel producer, with a significant carbon footprint.

In a statement, Sasol said the two firms would jointly advance a green hydrogen and derivatives study on the Saldanha region's potential as an export hub for green hydrogen and derivatives, as well as green steel production.

Both companies are targeting net zero carbon emissions by 2050, in line with the South African government's aim to cut climate-warming gas emissions.