Zanaga Iron Ore Company Limited, an iron explorer focused on the Republic of Congo, announced that test results confirm its project can produce high-grade iron ore concentrate for low-carbon steel production via electric arc furnaces.

Both hematite and magnetite samples met direct reduction iron (DRI) pellet feed specifications. Hematite concentrate showed 68.5% iron, while magnetite reached 69.1% iron, both with low levels of silica, alumina, and phosphorus, impurities DRI steelmakers avoid.

DRI-grade material is increasingly sought as steelmakers move from conventional coal-fired blast furnaces to cleaner electric arc processes, which need high-purity iron.

Zanaga's CEO, Marty Knauth, stated the company will publish updated project economics based on this DRI potential and is considering a pellet plant. The main test work was completed in China with UK analysis confirmation, showing improved results without major cost changes.