Biography:
1992 - 1995. B.E. (Hons), Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical). The University of Melbourne.
1996 - 1999. Ph.D. (Engineering), Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Melbourne.
2000 - 2008. Research Fellow then Lecturer. Nottingham Fuel and Energy Centre, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, The University of Nottingham, UK.
2009 - 2018. Lecturer then Senior Lecturer, School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland.
2019 - present. Associate Professor, School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland.
My research interests are in energy and resources, including coal science, gas recovery, and sustainable mineral processing with a strong interest in developing new technologies to solve major issues. I develop new experimental/analytical capabilities and innovative approaches to provide new knowledge and novel insights that can help Australian industries maintain and extend their competitiveness in world markets. I also develop novel process schemes by manipulating solution equilibria and are currently focused on developing new mineral processes that include CO2 sequestration.
Main themes:
Metallurgical Coal Carbonisation and Biocoke Production
I have pioneered the use of high temperature oscillatory shear rheometry to characterise the microstructure of coal during pyrolysis/carbonisation as it transforms into coke (an essential porous carbon material used for steel-making). I obtained real mechanical properties of the plastic phase that forms and studied viscoelastic thresholds for bubble nucleation, growth and coalescence which enabled me to develop a hypothesis for a process problem known as high oven wall pressure. The knowledge base created from this research has paved the way for better models to predict oven wall pressure and elucidated clever ways to control pressure through blending.
This led to an ambitious new focus to develop a mechanistic model for coke strength that would reveal why some coals are not well predicted and how the value of a coal could be improved through blending. I combine rheometry and X-ray micro-CT analysis to reveal the physical mechanisms by which the pore structure of coke forms and how its features contribute to coke strength.
More recently, I have turned my attention to examining how coal can be replaced by biomass in steel production given that 7% of the world’s CO2 emissions come from producing steel. This involves examining the pyrolysis behaviour of biomass and finding ways to replicate the mechanisms that give rise to strong coke. Initial work has involved sugar can bagasse, an agricultural waste, and therefore involves examining the behaviour of grasses.
Significance: Coal is the 2nd biggest export earner for Australia, whereby the majority is metallurgical (met) coal used to make coke, and Australia is currently the largest exporter of met coal in the world. My research is used to ensure Australia remains at the forefront by enabling better predictions on the behaviour of different coals and providing new opportunities for the marketing of Australian coals.
Main collaborators: ACARP, BHP, Anglo American, Rio Tinto, Peabody, Vale, The University of Newcastle (Aus), CSIRO, School of Earth Sciences (UQ).
Novel Technologies for Increasing Gas Recovery from Coal Seams and Predicting Gas Production Rates.
Methane is a ‘cleaner’ fuel than coal because it is hydrogen-rich and can be burned in high efficiency combined cycles. Coal deposits in eastern Australia have enormous amounts of adsorbed methane (known as coal seam gas or coalbed methane) which has given rise to a fast growing industry whereby the methane is extracted, liquefied (LNG), and exported overseas. Extraction depends on the permeability of the coal seam. The most commonly used technology for increasing permeability is hydraulic fracturing, which originates from the conventional oil/gas industry where sandstone is the usual source rock. The structural properties dictating permeability for coal is different, whereby coal is already highly cleated due to the shrinkage process that occurs during formation. Instead of creating a new fracture network, our research has shown that it is possible to increase gas productivity by working with the existing cleat network, enhancing flow by dissolving the minerals within the cleats and etching cleat surfaces.
I have developed new laboratory and analytical capabilities to study the chemical and physical effects caused during chemical injection, including X-ray micro-CT analysis combined with pore characterisation and flow simulation (using GEODICT) to explain the permeability changes observed in laboratory injection tests.
I have also recently developed a new tool that enables the cleats to be examined as methane is desorbed (using high pressure cells and X-ray CT analysis). We aim to relate our observations to the structural properties of the coal and provide industry with a new capability to predict gas production rates for a given well over its life. Approaches taken are also applicable to predicting flow and adsorption behaviour of CO2 for sequestration considerations. Once coal seams become depleted of methane, the same pore space that held the methane is available for long-term CO2 storage
Significance: Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is the 3rd biggest export earner for Australia. Industry is currently targeting regions where gas is easy to extract, and the challenge is to develop new technologies for increasing permeability in other regions and to predict gas production levels as a well depletes. My research supports industry by providing new technologies and new capabilities that helps them maintain and extend their position in the world market.
Main collaborators: Santos, Origin Energy, Arrow Energy, QGC, UQ Centre for Natural Gas, School of Earth Sciences (UQ).
Sequestration of CO2 as Stable Mineral Carbonates
Mineral carbonates are known to be stable for millions of years and so conversion of CO2 emissions to solid carbonate is an attractive solution. My background in manipulating solution equilibria to achieve desired effects led me to establish novel chemical routes for making Mg-carbonates from CO2 and either Mg-silicates or Mg-rich tailings. Given that Mg-silicates can contain Ni the process can be aligned with the current process for Ni recovery. Furthermore, the process can extract CO2 from the atmosphere and can therefore offset the release of CO2 elsewhere.
Significance: Technologies to mitigate against CO2 emissions are of unparalled importance. One of the major challenges is keeping the cost low. Using clever chemistry and combining CO2 sequestration with existing mineral processing operations that produce valuable commodities could enable it to work commercially.
Journal Article: High temperature viscoelastic behaviour of sugarcane bagasse char and coal blends: Role of oxygen and porosity of char on fluidity reduction
Somasundaram, Singaram, Congo, Tara and Steel, Karen M. (2024). High temperature viscoelastic behaviour of sugarcane bagasse char and coal blends: Role of oxygen and porosity of char on fluidity reduction. Fuel, 362 130672, 130672. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2023.130672
Journal Article: Assessment of the tribological performance of glass fibre reinforced polyamide 6 under harsh abrasive environments
Zaghloul, Moustafa Mahmoud Yousry, Steel, Karen, Veidt, Martin and Heitzmann, Michael T. (2024). Assessment of the tribological performance of glass fibre reinforced polyamide 6 under harsh abrasive environments. Tribology International, 191 109059, 109059. doi: 10.1016/j.triboint.2023.109059
Journal Article: Electrochemical separation of sulfuric acid from magnesium sulfate solutions: application for nickel laterite processing
H. Ibrahim, Mohamed, Batstone, Damien, Vaughan, James and Steel, Karen (2024). Electrochemical separation of sulfuric acid from magnesium sulfate solutions: application for nickel laterite processing. Separation and Purification Technology, 336 126291, 126291. doi: 10.1016/j.seppur.2024.126291
Optimising biomass addition in premium coking coals
(2024–2028) Anglo American Steelmaking Coal Pty Ltd
Tracking the Carbonisation Performance of Vitrinite Macerals
(2024–2025) Australian Coal Association Research Program
High value biocoke for low emission steel production
(2023–2026) ARC Discovery Projects
High value bio-coke for low emission steel production
Doctor Philosophy
Production of high strength metallurgical coke from coal-biomass blends for low emission steel production
Doctor Philosophy
X-ray Transparent Cell to examine the effect of methane adsorption on coal cleat volume
(2023) Master Philosophy
Development of new technologies for increasing coal seam permeability
Conversion of CO2 into stable mineral carbonates
Understanding the mechanisms behind coke strength development
Somasundaram, Singaram, Congo, Tara and Steel, Karen M. (2024). High temperature viscoelastic behaviour of sugarcane bagasse char and coal blends: Role of oxygen and porosity of char on fluidity reduction. Fuel, 362 130672, 130672. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2023.130672
Zaghloul, Moustafa Mahmoud Yousry, Steel, Karen, Veidt, Martin and Heitzmann, Michael T. (2024). Assessment of the tribological performance of glass fibre reinforced polyamide 6 under harsh abrasive environments. Tribology International, 191 109059, 109059. doi: 10.1016/j.triboint.2023.109059
H. Ibrahim, Mohamed, Batstone, Damien, Vaughan, James and Steel, Karen (2024). Electrochemical separation of sulfuric acid from magnesium sulfate solutions: application for nickel laterite processing. Separation and Purification Technology, 336 126291, 126291. doi: 10.1016/j.seppur.2024.126291
Gao, Shuai, Congo, Tara, Jing, Zhenhua, Aziz, Shazed, Balucan, Reydick, Zhu, Zhonghua, Pell, Stephen D. and Steel, Karen M. (2023). Oxidative effects of gaseous oxygen and ozone on Australian subbituminous and bituminous coals and the implications for coal seam permeability enhancement. Gas Science and Engineering, 118 205092, 205092. doi: 10.1016/j.jgsce.2023.205092
Zaghloul, Moustafa Mahmoud Yousry, Steel, Karen, Veidt, Martin, Martin, Darren, Firouzi, Mahshid and Heitzmann, Michael T. (2023). Influence of Counter-Face Grit Size and Lubricant on the Abrasive Wear Behaviour of Thermoplastic Polymers Reinforced with Glass Fibres. Tribology Letters, 71 (3) 102, 1-22. doi: 10.1007/s11249-023-01774-9
Jayasekara, Apsara S., Brooks, Brody, Steel, Karen, Koshy, Pramod, Hockings, Kim and Tahmasebi, Arash (2023). Microalgae blending for sustainable metallurgical coke production – Impacts on coking behaviour and coke quality. Fuel, 344 128130, 1-18. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2023.128130
Before and after: A visual glimpse into the coking behaviour of coal macerals
Congo, Tara, Rodrigues, Sandra, Esterle, Joan, Steel, Karen and Maranha, Silvio (2023). Before and after: A visual glimpse into the coking behaviour of coal macerals. Fuel, 343 127979, 1-13. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2023.127979
Zaghloul, Moustafa Mahmoud Yousry, Steel, Karen, Veidt, Martin and Heitzmann, Michael T. (2023). Mechanical and tribological performances of thermoplastic polymers reinforced with glass fibres at variable fibre volume fractions. Polymers, 15 (3) 694, 1-23. doi: 10.3390/polym15030694
Oxidant stimulation to enhance coal seam permeability mechanism and application
Jing, Zhenhua, Pan, Songqi, Wang, Xiaoming, Yuan, Ming, Li, Yong, Liu, Entao, Liu, Hanlin, Underschultz, Jim and Steel, Karen (2022). Oxidant stimulation to enhance coal seam permeability mechanism and application. Meitan Xuebao/Journal of the China Coal Society, 47 (11), 3975-3989. doi: 10.13225/j.cnki.jccs.L022.1145
Zaghloul, Moustafa Mahmoud Yousry, Steel, Karen, Veidt, Martin and Heitzmann, Michael T. (2021). Wear behaviour of polymeric materials reinforced with man-made fibres: a comprehensive review about fibre volume fraction influence on wear performance. Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites, 41 (5-6), 073168442110517-241. doi: 10.1177/07316844211051733
Steel, Karen M., Jenkins, David R., Balucan, Reydick D. and Mahoney, Merrick R. (2021). Identification of preferential pathways in the pore microstructure of metallurgical coke and links to anisotropic strength properties. Fuel, 296 120688, 1-8. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2021.120688
Aziz, Hammad, Congo, Tara and Steel, Karen M. (2021). Understanding the multiple interactions of inertinite during pyrolysis/carbonisation with vitrinite: A study of two Australian coals of different rank. Fuel Processing Technology, 217 106823, 1-13. doi: 10.1016/j.fuproc.2021.106823
Jing, Zhenhua, Gao, Shuai, Rodrigues, Sandra, Underschultz, Jim, Strounina, Ekaterina, Pan, Songqi, Wu, Songtao, Li, Yong, Balucan, Reydick and Steel, Karen M. (2021). Influence of porosity on the reactivity of inertinite and vitrinite toward sodium hypochlorite: implications for enhancing coal seam gas development. International Journal of Coal Geology, 237 103709, 1-11. doi: 10.1016/j.coal.2021.103709
Zappala, Lauren C., Balucan, Reydick D., Vaughan, James and Steel, Karen M. (2020). Development of a nickel extraction-mineral carbonation process: analysis of leaching mechanisms using regenerated acid. Hydrometallurgy, 197 105482, 105482. doi: 10.1016/j.hydromet.2020.105482
Aziz, Hammad, Rodrigues, Sandra, Esterle, Joan S. and Steel, Karen M. (2020). Interactions between vitrinite and solid additives including inertinite during pyrolysis for coke-making considerations. Fuel Processing Technology, 201 106321, 106321. doi: 10.1016/j.fuproc.2019.106321
Jing, Zhenhua, Balucan, Reydick D., Underschultz, Jim R., Pan, Songqi and Steel, Karen M. (2020). Chemical stimulation for enhancing coal seam permeability: laboratory study into permeability variation and coal structure examination. International Journal of Coal Geology, 219 103375, 1-11. doi: 10.1016/j.coal.2019.103375
X-ray CT observations of selective damage of mineralised synthetic particles by high voltage pulses
Huang, Wei, Ren, Fei, Shi, Fengnian and Steel, Karen (2019). X-ray CT observations of selective damage of mineralised synthetic particles by high voltage pulses. Minerals Engineering, 143 106007, 106007. doi: 10.1016/j.mineng.2019.106007
Ge, Lei, Soares, Fabio Terzini, Mahoney, Shilo, Hamilton, Christopher, Khan, Chawarwan, Steel, Karen, Rufford, Thomas E. and Rudolph, Victor (2019). Effect of oxidation and silane surface treatments of coal powders on relative permeability in packed coal beds. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 69 102931, 102931. doi: 10.1016/j.jngse.2019.102931
Zappala, Lauren C., Balucan, Reydick D., Vaughan, James and Steel, Karen M. (2019). Analysis of a reactive distillation process to recover tertiary amines and acid for use in a combined nickel extraction‐mineral carbonation process. Environmental Progress and Sustainable Energy, 38 (3) ep.13141, e13141. doi: 10.1002/ep.13141
Use of FTIR, XPS, NMR to characterize oxidative effects of NaClO on coal molecular structures
Jing, Zhenhua, Rodrigues, Sandra, Strounina, Ekaterina, Li, Mengran, Wood, Barry, Underschultz, Jim R., Esterle, Joan S. and Steel, Karen M. (2019). Use of FTIR, XPS, NMR to characterize oxidative effects of NaClO on coal molecular structures. International Journal of Coal Geology, 201, 1-13. doi: 10.1016/j.coal.2018.11.017
Jing, Zhenhua, Mahoney, Shilo A., Rodrigues, Sandra, Balucan, Reydick D., Underschultz, Jim, Esterle, Joan S., Rufford, Thomas E. and Steel, Karen M. (2018). A preliminary study of oxidant stimulation for enhancing coal seam permeability: effects of sodium hypochlorite oxidation on subbituminous and bituminous Australian coals. International Journal of Coal Geology, 200, 36-44. doi: 10.1016/j.coal.2018.10.006
Gao, Shuai, Hernandez, Byron S., Ge, Lei, Steel, Karen, Rufford, Thomas and Zhu, Zhonghua (2018). Effect of rheological properties of mesophase pitch and coal mixtures on pore development in activated carbon discs with high compressive strength. Fuel Processing Technology, 177, 219-227. doi: 10.1016/j.fuproc.2018.04.032
Balucan, Reydick D., Turner, Luc G. and Steel, Karen M. (2018). X-ray μCT investigations of the effects of cleat demineralization by HCl acidizing on coal permeability. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 55, 206-218. doi: 10.1016/j.jngse.2018.05.007
Jing, Zhenhua, Balucan, Reydick D., Underschultz, Jim R. and Steel, Karen M. (2018). Oxidant stimulation for enhancing coal seam permeability: swelling and solubilisation behaviour of unconfined coal particles in oxidants. Fuel, 221, 320-328. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2018.02.071
The effect of rank, lithotype and roughness on contact angle measurements in coal cleats
Mahoney, Shilo A., Rufford, Thomas E., Johnson, David, Dmyterko, Anastasia, Rodrigues, Sandra, Esterle, Joan, Rudolph, Victor and Steel, Karen M. (2017). The effect of rank, lithotype and roughness on contact angle measurements in coal cleats. International Journal of Coal Geology, 179, 302-315. doi: 10.1016/j.coal.2017.07.001
Nguyen, Ngoc N., Nguyen, Anh V., Steel, Karen M., Dang, Liem X. and Galib, Mirza (2017). Interfacial gas enrichment at hydrophobic surfaces and the origin of promotion of gas hydrate formation by hydrophobic solid particles. Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 121 (7), 3830-3840. doi: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.6b07136
Examining mechanisms of metallurgical coke fracture using micro-CT imaging and analysis
Lomas, Hannah, Jenkins, David R., Mahoney, Merrick R., Pearce, Robin, Roest, Richard, Steel, Karen and Mayo, Sheridan (2017). Examining mechanisms of metallurgical coke fracture using micro-CT imaging and analysis. Fuel Processing Technology, 155, 183-190. doi: 10.1016/j.fuproc.2016.05.039
A study into the effect of cleat demineralisation by hydrochloric acid on the permeability of coal
Turner, Luc G. and Steel, Karen M. (2016). A study into the effect of cleat demineralisation by hydrochloric acid on the permeability of coal. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 36 (A), 931-942. doi: 10.1016/j.jngse.2016.11.003
Gao, Jinfang, Xing, Huilin, Turner, Luc, Steel, Karen, Sedek, Mohamed, Golding, Sue D. and Rudolph, Victor (2016). Pore-scale numerical investigation on chemical stimulation in coal and permeability enhancement for coal seam gas production. Transport in Porous Media, 116 (1), 1-17. doi: 10.1007/s11242-016-0777-9
Acid-induced mineral alteration on the permeability and compressibility of coal
Balucan, Reydick D., Turner, Luc G. and Steel, Karen M. (2016). Acid-induced mineral alteration on the permeability and compressibility of coal. Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering, 33, 973-987. doi: 10.1016/j.jngse.2016.04.023
Use of rheometry and micro-CT analysis to understand pore structure development in coke
Steel, Karen M., Dawson, Robin E., Jenkins, David R., Pearce, Robin and Mahoney, Merrick R. (2016). Use of rheometry and micro-CT analysis to understand pore structure development in coke. Fuel Processing Technology, 155, 106-113. doi: 10.1016/j.fuproc.2016.04.027
Metastable zone width and nucleation threshold of aluminium hydroxyfluoride hydrate
Ntuk, Ubong and Steel, Karen (2016). Metastable zone width and nucleation threshold of aluminium hydroxyfluoride hydrate. Crystal Research and Technology, 51 (4), 265-275. doi: 10.1002/crat.201500294
Creation of micro channels in Bowen Basin coals using UV laser and reactive ion etching
Mohoney, Shilo A., Rufford, Thomas, Rudolph, Victor, Liu, Kai-Yu, Rodrigues, Sandra and Steel, Karen (2015). Creation of micro channels in Bowen Basin coals using UV laser and reactive ion etching. International Journal of Coal Geology, 144-145, 48-57. doi: 10.1016/j.coal.2015.04.001
The precipitation and solubility of aluminium hydroxyfluoride hydrate between 30 and 70 °c
Ntuk, Ubong, Tait, Stephan, White, Edward T and Steel, Karen M (2015). The precipitation and solubility of aluminium hydroxyfluoride hydrate between 30 and 70 °c. Hydrometallurgy, 155, 79-87. doi: 10.1016/j.hydromet.2015.04.010
A regenerable precipitant-solvent system for CO2 mitigation and metals recovery
Balucan, Reydick D. and Steel, Karen M. (2015). A regenerable precipitant-solvent system for CO2 mitigation and metals recovery. International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control, 42, 379-387. doi: 10.1016/j.ijggc.2015.08.004
Steel, Karen M., Diaz, Miguel Castro, Duffy, John J., Snape, Colin E. and Mahoney, Merrick R. (2014). Influence of thermoplastic properties on coking pressure generation: part IV - further evidence of the role of bubble coalescence in the mechanism for pressure generation. Fuel, 129, 102-110. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2014.03.035
Conversion of CO2 into mineral carbonates using a regenerable buffer to control solution pH
Steel, Karen M., Alizadehhesari, Kimia, Balucan, Reydick D. and Basic, Bruno (Bašić, Bruno) (2013). Conversion of CO2 into mineral carbonates using a regenerable buffer to control solution pH. Fuel, 111, 40-47. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2013.04.033
Duffy, John J., Scholes, Oliver, Mahoney, Merrick R. and Steel, Karen M. (2013). Influence of thermoplastic properties on coking pressure generation: Part 3 - Evidence and role of pore coalescence in the mechanism for pressure generation. Fuel, 103, 711-718. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2012.08.022
Lisbona, Diego F., Somerfield, Christopher and Steel, Karen M. (2013). Leaching of spent pot-lining with aluminium nitrate and nitric acid: Effect of reaction conditions and thermodynamic modelling of solution speciation. Hydrometallurgy, 134-135, 132-143. doi: 10.1016/j.hydromet.2013.02.011
Lisbona, Diego F., Somerfield, Christopher and Steel, Karen M. (2012). Treatment of Spent Pot-lining with Aluminum Anodizing Wastewaters: Selective Precipitation of Aluminum and Fluoride as an Aluminum Hydroxyfluoride Hydrate Product. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 51 (39), 12712-12722. doi: 10.1021/ie3013506
Lisbona, Diego F., Somerfield, Christopher and Steel, Karen M. (2012). Leaching of spent pot-lining with aluminum anodizing wastewaters: Fluoride extraction and thermodynamic modeling of aqueous speciation. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 51 (25), 8366-8377. doi: 10.1021/ie3006353
Duffy, J. J., Mahoney, M. R. and Steel, K. M. (2010). Influence of coal thermoplastic properties on coking pressure generation: Part 2 – A study of binary coal blends and specific additives. Fuel, 89 (7), 1600-1615. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2009.08.035
Duffy, J. J., Mahoney, M. R. and Steel, Karen M. (2010). Influence of thermoplastic properties on coking pressure generation: Part 1 – A study of single coals of various rank. Fuel, 89 (7), 1590-1599. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2009.08.031
Steel, Karen M., Castro Diaz, Miguel, Duffy, John J. and Snape, Colin E. (2009). Use of Oscillatory Shear Rheometry and Thermogravimetric Analysis To Examine the Microstructural Changes during Coal Pyrolysis/Carbonization for the Prediction of IRSID Strength Indices. Energy & Fuels, 23 (4), 2111-2117. doi: 10.1021/ef800977q
Fernandez Lisbona, Diego and Steel, Karen M. (2008). Recovery of fluoride values from spent pot-lining: precipitation of an aluminium hydroxyfluoride hydrate product. Separation and Purification Technology, 61 (2), 182-192. doi: 10.1016/j.seppur.2007.10.012
Casto Diaz, Miguel, Edeki, Lucky, Steel, Karen M., Patrick, John W. and Snape, Colin E. (2008). Determination of the effects caused by different polymers on coal fluidity during carbonisation using high-temperature 1H NMR and rheometry. Energy & Fuels, 22 (1), 471-479. doi: 10.1021/ef7004628
Demineralization of a UK bituminous coal using HF and ferric ions
Wu, Zhiheng and Steel, Karen M. (2007). Demineralization of a UK bituminous coal using HF and ferric ions. Fuel, 86 (14), 2194-2200. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2007.02.038
Understanding the mechanisms behind coking pressure: Relationship to pore structure
Duffy John J., Castro Diaz, M., Snape, Colin E., Steel, Karen M. and Mahoney, Merrick R. (2007). Understanding the mechanisms behind coking pressure: Relationship to pore structure. Fuel, 86 (14), 2167-2178. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2007.03.040
Casto Diaz, M., Duffy, J. J., Snape, C. E. and Steel, K. M. (2007). Use of high-temperature, high-torque rheometry to study the viscoelastic properties of coal during carbonization. Journal of Rheology, 51 (5), 895-913. doi: 10.1122/1.2754317
Steel, Karen (2007). Chemically cleaning coal. The Chemical Engineer (793), 52-53.
Treatment of spent pot-lining for recovery of fluoride values
Fernandez Lisbona, D and Steel, KM (2007). Treatment of spent pot-lining for recovery of fluoride values. Light Metals, 843-848.
Steel, Karen M., Diaz, Miguel C., Patrick, John W. and Snape, Colin E. (2006). Evidence for network formation during the carbonization of coal from the combination of rheometry and 1H NMR techniques. Fuel, 85 (12-13), 1821-1830. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2006.01.016
The possible role of fissure formation in the prevention of coking pressure generation
Hanson, S., Steel, K. M., Snape, C. E. and Patrick, J. W. (2006). The possible role of fissure formation in the prevention of coking pressure generation. Fuel, 85 (1), 19-24. doi: 10.1016/j.fuel.2005.04.020
Castro Diaz, Miguel C., Steel, Karen M., Drage, Trevor C., Patrick, John W. and Snape, Colin E. (2005). Determination of the effect of different additives in coking blends using a combination of in situ high-temperature 1H NMR and rheometry. Energy & Fuels, 19 (6), 2423-2431. doi: 10.1021/ef050126n
Steel, KM and Patrick, JW (2004). Re-generation of hydrofluoric acid and selective separation of Si(IV) in a process for producing ultra-clean coal. Fuel Processing Technology, 86 (2), 179-190. doi: 10.1016/j.fuproc.2004.02.003
Steel, Karen M., Castro Diaz, Miguel, Patrick, John W. and Snape, Colin E. (2004). Use of rheometry and 1H NMR spectroscopy for understanding the mechanisms behind the generation of coking pressure. Energy & Fuels, 18 (5), 1250-1256. doi: 10.1021/ef034058l
Combustion behaviour of ultra clean coal obtained by chemical demineralisation
Rubiera, F, Arenillas, A, Arias, B, Pis, JJ, Suarez-Ruiz, I, Steel, KM and Patrick, JW (2003). Combustion behaviour of ultra clean coal obtained by chemical demineralisation. Fuel, 82 (15-17), 2145-2151. doi: 10.1016/S0016-2361(03)00181-9
The production of ultra clean coal by sequential leaching with HF followed by HNO3
Steel, KM and Patrick, JW (2003). The production of ultra clean coal by sequential leaching with HF followed by HNO3. Fuel, 82 (15-17), 1917-1920. doi: 10.1016/S0016-2361(03)00149-2
Coal structure and reactivity changes induced by chemical demineralisation
Rubiera, R, Arenillas, A, Pevida, C, Garcia, R, Pis, JJ, Steel, KM and Patrick, JW (2002). Coal structure and reactivity changes induced by chemical demineralisation. Fuel Processing Technology, 79 (3), 273-279. doi: 10.1016/S0378-3820(02)00185-6
Steel, KM, Besida, J, O'Donnell, TA and Wood, DG (2002). Production of ultra clean coal, Part III. Effect of coal’s carbonaceous matrix on the dissolution of mineral matter using hydrofluoric acid. Fuel Processing Technology, 76 (1), 51-59. doi: 10.1016/S0378-3820(02)00017-6
The production of ultra clean coal by chemical demineralisation
Steel, KM and Patrick, J (2001). The production of ultra clean coal by chemical demineralisation. Fuel, 80 (14), 2019-2023. doi: 10.1016/S0016-2361(01)00092-8
Steel, KM, Besida, J, O'Donnell, TA and Wood, DG (2001). Production of Ultra Clean Coal Part I - Dissolution behaviour of mineral matter in black coal toward hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids. Fuel Processing Technology, 70 (3), 171-192. doi: 10.1016/S0378-3820(01)00171-0
Steel, KM, Besida, J, O'Donnell, TA and Wood, DG (2001). Production of Ultra Clean Coal Part II - Ionic equilibria in solution when mineral matter from black coal is treated with aqueous hydrofluoric acid. Fuel Processing Technology, 70 (3), 193-219. doi: 10.1016/S0378-3820(01)00173-4
Steel, KM, Besida, J, O'Donnell, TA and Wood, DG (2001). Production of Ultra Clean Coal, Part I – Dissolution behaviour of mineral matter in black coal toward hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids. Fuel Processing Technology, 70 (3), 171-192. doi: 10.1016/S0378-3820(01)00171-0
Steel, KM, Besida, J, O'Donnell, TA and Wood, DG (2001). Production of Ultra Clean Coal, Part II – Ionic equilibria in solution when mineral matter from black coal is treated with aqueous hydrofluoric acid. Fuel Processing Technology, 70 (3), 193-219. doi: 10.1016/S0378-3820(01)00173-4
Understanding the coal-to-coke transformation
Congo, Tara, Rodrigues, Sandra, Esterle, Joan, Somasundaram, Singaram and Steel, Karen (2022). Understanding the coal-to-coke transformation . Dorothy Hill Women in Earth and Environmental Sciences Symposium, Brisbane, QLD Australia, 7-9 November 2022.
Jayasekara, Apsara S., Brooks, Brody, Steel, Karen, Koshy, Pramod, Hockings, Kim and Tahmasebi, Arash (2022). Impact of microalgae addition on thermoplastic behaviour of australian metallurgical coals during the coking process. 8th ECIC and 9th ICSTI, Bremen, Germany, 29 August-2 September 2022.
The effect of thermal alteration on coking behaviour
Congo, Tara, Rodrigues, Sandra, Esterle, Joan and Steel, Karen (2022). The effect of thermal alteration on coking behaviour. Bowen Basin Symposium, Mackay, QLD Australia, 28-30 March 2022.
Emmett, Rebecca K. and Steel, Karen M. (2021). Pre-feasibility study of the application of sodium sulphate electrodialysis in lithium carbonate production from α- spodumene. Chemeca 2021, Virtual, 27-28 September 2021.
The impact of cleat connectivity on coal seam gas geomodels' 3D permeability
Balucan, Reydick and Steel, Karen (2019). The impact of cleat connectivity on coal seam gas geomodels' 3D permeability. SPE/AAPG/SEG Asia Pacific Unconventional Resources Technology Conference, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 18 – 19 November 2019. Brisbane, QLD, Australia: Unconventional Resources Technology Conference (URTEC). doi: 10.15530/AP-URTEC-2019-198327
An acid recovery and mineral carbonation process forthe nickel industry
Zappala, Lauren, Balucan, Reydick, Vaughan, James and Steel, Karen (2018). An acid recovery and mineral carbonation process forthe nickel industry. 6th International Conference on Accelerated Carbonation for Environmental and Material Engineering, ACEME 2018, Newcastle, NSW, Australia, 11 - 14 March, 2018. New York, NY, United States: AIChE.
Terzini Soares, Fabio, Ge, Lei, Rufford, Thomas E., Steel, Karen and Rudolph, Victor (2018). Response of relative permeability to coal surface chemistry and effective pressure through steady-state flooding measurements using X-ray CT scanner and artificial Australian coal cores. InterPore 10th Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA USA, 14-17 May 2018.
Balucan, Reydick D. and Steel, Karen M. (2015). A regenerable chemical process for greenhouse gas control and metals recovery: Potential utilisation of Philippine nickel laterite and serpentinite resources. 30th Philippine Chemistry Congress, Davao City, Philippines, 15-17 April 2015.
Coal bed methane reservoir simulation study
Khan, Charwarwan, Ge, Lei, Mahoney, Shilo, Rufford, Tom, Rudolph, Victor, Steel, Karen, Towler, Brian and Honari, Vahab (2015). Coal bed methane reservoir simulation study. AAPG Opportunities and Advancements in Coal Bed Methane in the Asia Pacific, Brisbane / Brisbane Convention Centre, 12-13 February 2015. Tulsa, OK United States: Datapages.
Creation of micro channels in Bowen Basin coal using UV laser and reactive ion etching
Mahoney, Shilo, Rudolph, Victor, Rufford, Thomas E., Steel, Karen, Yu, Kai and Rodrigues, Sandra (2015). Creation of micro channels in Bowen Basin coal using UV laser and reactive ion etching. AAPG Opportunities and Advancements in Coal Bed Methane in the Asia Pacific, Brisbane / Brisbane Convention Centre, 12-13 February 2015. Tulsa, OK United States: Datapages.
Steel, Karen M. and Balucan, Reydick D. (2015). Recent advances in the development of a new pH swing method based on a regenerable precipitant-solvent system for metals recovery and greenhouse gas control. 5th International Conference for Accelerated Carbonation for Environmental and Materials Engineering (ACEME15), New York, NY, United States, 21-24 June 2015. AIChE.
The effect of coal rank on wettability and capillary pressure in a single cleat
Mohoney, Shilo, Rufford, Thomas, Rudolph, Victor and Steel, Karen (2015). The effect of coal rank on wettability and capillary pressure in a single cleat. International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Melbourme, Australia, 27 September - 1 October 2015.
Shilo Mohoney, Rufford, Thomas, Anastasia Dmyterko, Rudolph, Victor and Karen Steel (2015). The effect of rank and lithotype on coal wettability and its application to coal relative permeability models. SPE Asia Pacific Unconventional Resources Conference and Exhibition, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 9-11 November 2015. Richardson, TX, United States: The Society of Petroleum Engineers. doi: 10.2118/176870-MS
The influence of cleat demineralisation on the compressibility of coal
Balucan, Reydick D., Turner, Luc G. and Steel, Karen M. (2015). The influence of cleat demineralisation on the compressibility of coal. SPE Asia Pacific Unconventional Resources Conference and Exhibition, Brisbane Australia, Nov. 9-11, 2015. Richardson, TX, United States: Society of Petroleum Engineers. doi: 10.2118/176960-MS
CO2 mineralisation using a regenerable buffer to control solution pH
Steel, Karen M and Balucan, Reydick D (2013). CO2 mineralisation using a regenerable buffer to control solution pH. 10th Australian Coal Science Conference, Brisbane, Australia, 18-19 November 2013.
Conversion of CO2 into mineral carbonates using a regenerable buffer to control solution pH
Steel, Karen M. and Balucan, Redick D. (2013). Conversion of CO2 into mineral carbonates using a regenerable buffer to control solution pH. 2013 ICCS&T: 14th International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, State College, PA, USA, 30 September-3 October, 2013. Pennsylvania, PA, USA: EMS Energy Institute.
Novel chemical stimulation techniques to enhance coal permeability
Turner, Luc G., Pell, Stephen D. and Steel, Karen M. (2013). Novel chemical stimulation techniques to enhance coal permeability. 2013 ICCS&T: 14th International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, State College, PA, USA, 30 September-3 October, 2013. Pennsylvania, PA, USA: EMS Energy Institute.
Novel chemical stimulation techniques to enhance coal permeability for coal seam gas extraction
Turner, Luc G., Steel, Karen M. and Pell, Stephen (2013). Novel chemical stimulation techniques to enhance coal permeability for coal seam gas extraction. SPE 13URCE: Unconventional Resources Conference and Exhibition-Asia Pacific 2013, South Bank, QLD, Australia, 11-13 November, 2013. Richardson, TX, USA: Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). doi: 10.2118/167015-MS
Potential for CO2 sequestration as mineral carbonate within Ni laterite processing
Steel, Karen, Alizadehhesari, Kimia, Fox, Kristiane and Balucan, Reydick (2013). Potential for CO2 sequestration as mineral carbonate within Ni laterite processing. ALTA 2013: Nickel-Cobalt-Copper, Uranium-REE and Gold Conference & Exhibition, Perth, Australia, 27-30 May 2013. Melbourne, Australia: ALTA Metallurgical Services Publications.
Prediction of solubilities of aluminium hydroxyfluoride hydrate recovered from spent pot lining
Ntuk, Ubong, White, Edward, Tait, Stephan and Steel, Karen (2013). Prediction of solubilities of aluminium hydroxyfluoride hydrate recovered from spent pot lining. Chemeca 2013: Challenging tomorrow, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 29 September–2 October, 2013. Barton, ACT, Australia: Institution of Engineers Australia.
Dawson, Robin E, Yu, Fengyuan, Mahoney, Merrick R. and Steel, Karen M. (2013). Use of rheometry and thermogravimetric analysis to study the fundamental mechanisms for fissuring during coal carbonisation and its relationship to coke strength indices. 2013 ICCS&T: 14th International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, State College, PA, USA, 30 September-3 October, 2013. Pennsylvania, PA, USA: EMS Energy Institute.
Kokonya, Sylvia N., Castro-Díaz, Miguel, Snape, Colin E. and Steel, Karen M. (2013). Using laboratory tests including high-temperature SAOS rheometry to predict excessive wall pressures in coke ovens. 2013 ICCS&T: 14th International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, State College, PA, USA, 30 September-3 October, 2013. Pennsylvania, PA, USA: EMS Energy Institute.
Alizadehhesari, K. and Steel, K. (2011). Carbon dioxide sequestration by aqueous mineral carbonation of serpentine and explanation of experimental results. 2011 ICCS&T: 13th International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Oviedo, Spain, 9-13 October, 2011. Spain:
Duffy, John, Steel, Karen, Scholes, Oliver and Mahoney, Merrick (2011). The use of high temperature rheometry to study the foaming behaviour of coal and elucidate the mechanisms for oven wall pressure. 6th European Coke and Ironmaking Congress, Dussuldorf, Germany, June 27 - July 1, 2011. Dussuldorf, Germany: Metec; Stahl-Institut VDEh.
Steel, K., Duffy, J. and Mahoney, M. (2009). Use of high temperature rheometry to study the foaming behaviour of coal during pyrolysis/carbonisation in order to understand the mechanisms responsible for coking pressures. Chemeca 2009, Perth, Western Australia, 27-30 September, 2009. Perth, Western Australia: Engineers Australia.
Duffy, J. J., Castro Diaz, M., Snape, C. E., Mahoney, M. R. and Steel, K. M. (2007). Combined use of rheometry and microscopy to understand pore structure development during coal carbonisation. 2007 ICCS&T: 2007 International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Nottingham, UK, 28-31 August. Nottingham, U.K: Fuel and Energy Centre.
Wu, Z. and Steel, K. M. (2007). Influence of coal type on the production of ultra clean coal by chemical leaching with HF followed by Fe(NO3)3. 2007 International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Nottingham, UK, 28-31 August. Nottingham, UK: IEA Clean Coal Centre.
Rheological behaviour of coal modified by waste plastics and lubricating-oils
Melendi Espina, Sonia, Díez Díaz-Estébanez, M. Antonia, Álvarez García, Ramón, Castro, Miguel, Steel, Karen and Snape, Colin E. (2007). Rheological behaviour of coal modified by waste plastics and lubricating-oils. International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Nottingham, UK, 28-31 August 2007. Nottingham, England: INCAR.
The shear-rate dependent viscoelastic properties of coal during carbonisation
Díaz, Miguel Castro, Duffy, John J., Snape, Colin E. and Steel, Karen M. (2007). The shear-rate dependent viscoelastic properties of coal during carbonisation. 2007 ICCS&T: 2007 International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Nottingham, UK, 28-31 August. Nottingham, U.K.: Fuel and Energy Centre.
Production of ultra-clean coal
Steel, K. M., Gu, Y. and Wu, Z. (2005). Production of ultra-clean coal. 2005 International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Okinawa, Japan, 9-14 October, 2005.
Understanding the microstructure of coal during carbonization using rheometry and 1H NMR
Steel, K. M., Castro Diaz, M., Patrick, J. W. and Snape, C. E. (2005). Understanding the microstructure of coal during carbonization using rheometry and 1H NMR. 2005 ICCS&T International Conference on Coal Science and Technology, Okinawa, Japan, 9-14 October 2005. Tsukuba, Japan: ICCS&T.
Recovery of reagent in a process for producing ultra clean coal
Steel, K. M. and Patrick, J. W. (2003). Recovery of reagent in a process for producing ultra clean coal. 12th International Conference on Coal Science "Coal - contributing to sustainable world development", Cairns, Qld, Australia, 2 - 6 November, 2003.
Steel, K. M., Castro Diaz, M., Patrick, J. W., Huang, W. L. and Snape, C. E. (2003). Understanding the viscoelastic behaviour of coals with respect to coking pressure using rheometry, 1H NMR and visual techniques. 12th International Conference on Coal Science (12th ICCS), Cairns, Australia, 2-6 November 2003. Cairns, Australia: Australian Institute of Energy.
Optimising biomass addition in premium coking coals
(2024–2028) Anglo American Steelmaking Coal Pty Ltd
Tracking the Carbonisation Performance of Vitrinite Macerals
(2024–2025) Australian Coal Association Research Program
High value biocoke for low emission steel production
(2023–2026) ARC Discovery Projects
Coal matrix shrinkage and its effects on cleat porosity, permeability and late life coal behaviour
(2023–2024) Arrow Energy Pty Ltd
Physical and chemical interactions between charcoal and coal during coking
(2023–2024) Australian Coal Association Research Program
(2022–2023) University of Newcastle
A 4-D X-Ray Microscopy Laboratory (ARC LIEF project administered by The University of NSW)
(2021–2023) University of New South Wales
(2021–2022) Australian Coal Association Research Program
(2021–2022) University of Newcastle
(2019) UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
Advanced Environmental Technologies for Increasing Coal Seam Permeability
(2018–2021) ARC Linkage Projects
Evolution of the Pore Structure in Coke and Implications on Coke Strength
(2018–2019) Australian Coal Association Research Program
(2017–2018) Australian Coal Association Research Program
(2016–2019) ARC Discovery Projects
(2016–2017) University of Newcastle
Physical and chemical interactions occurring during cokemaking and their influence on coke strength
(2015–2016) Australian Coal Association Research Program
Advanced environmental technologies for permeability enhancement
(2014–2018) QGC Pty Limited
High-pressure experimental measurements of gas-water relative permeability behaviour
(2014–2018) QGC Pty Limited
(2014–2015) Australian Coal Association Research Program
Mechanistic model for the understanding of sole heated ovens
(2014–2015) University of Newcastle
(2013–2017) Santos Limited
New techniques for predicting and controlling coking behaviour
(2011–2013) BHP Billiton Innovation Pty Ltd
Scholarship Agreement: Novel chemical stimulation treatments to increase coal permeability
(2011–2013) UniQuest Pty Ltd
(2010–2013) ARC Linkage Projects
(2010–2013) BHP Billiton Innovation Pty Ltd
Coal microstructure characterisation for advanced coal technologies
(2010) UQ Major Equipment and Infrastructure
(2009–2010) UQ New Staff Research Start-Up Fund
Use of biochar for the extraction of organics from Bayer liquor
(2009–2010) UQ FirstLink Scheme
High value bio-coke for low emission steel production
Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
Production of high strength metallurgical coke from coal-biomass blends for low emission steel production
Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
CO2 Mineralization with Metals Extraction : A Pathway to CO2 Sequestration Commercialization
Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
Biocoke Production
Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
Mechanical and Tribological Performances of Glass Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastics - Investigation into Material Responses, Abrasive Sensitivity and Adverse Operating Conditions
Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
X-ray Transparent Cell to examine the effect of methane adsorption on coal cleat volume
(2023) Master Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
(2021) Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
Interactions between vitrinite and inertinite during carbonization for coke strength considerations
(2020) Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Oxidant stimulation of coal seams to increase coal seam permeability
(2019) Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
(2016) Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
(2016) Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
Chemical Stimulation Techniques for Increasing the Permeability of Coal Seams
(2015) Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Carbon dioxide sequestration by mineralization of serpentine
(2013) Doctor Philosophy — Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
(2021) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
SELECTIVE BREAKAGE OF MINERALISED PARTICLES BY HIGH VOLTAGE PULSES
(2019) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Effects of Additives on the Formation of Methane and Carbon Dioxide Gas Hydrates
(2018) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
The Effect of Water Occlusion on Gas Production in Coal
(2017) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
Molecular Modelling of Air-aqueous Solution Interfaces and Thin Films
(2014) Doctor Philosophy — Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
Note for students: The possible research projects listed on this page may not be comprehensive or up to date. Always feel free to contact the staff for more information, and also with your own research ideas.
Development of new technologies for increasing coal seam permeability
Conversion of CO2 into stable mineral carbonates
Understanding the mechanisms behind coke strength development