"The method involves injecting finely ground iron ore powder into an extremely hot furnace, triggering an “explosive chemical reaction”.
The result is a stream of high-purity iron that can be directly used for casting or “one-step #steelmaking”.

Known as #FlashIronmaking, the method “can complete the ironmaking process in just three to six seconds, compared to the five to six hours required by traditional blast furnaces”."

https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3289441/chinas-explosive-ironmaking-breakthrough-achieves-3600-fold-productivity-boost

China’s ‘explosive’ ironmaking breakthrough achieves 3,600-fold speed boost

A new method for making iron is not only faster and cheaper, but also better for the environment, according to Chinese researchers.

South China Morning Post