all magnetite ore which is concentrated (or at the vast majority) is destined to be pelletized. Maybe some will be sintered.
Not only are pellets more environmentally friendly they are also more efficicient 'holders' of iron units. Easier to transport, stack etc etc
THere are more than one advantage to pellets. Not only are they basically required for EAF steel production - which is growing and will basically feed the Middle East's growth but they have lower CO2 emissions in the furnaces. High grade pellets are also required for DRI production.
The price paid for the pellet premium this year extended to all time highs. There is a massive pellet market but I still don;t see Aussie mag plays filling a huge hole. Like i keep saying, imo a few will definitely get up but I don't think they'll be in the Midwest.
