China has achieved a global breakthrough in processing refractory iron ore after two decades of research, with the world's largest magnetizing roasting project passing final inspection on September 1.

The technology, developed by the Institute of Process Engineering under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, can upgrade iron tailings containing just 11% iron into concentrate with 65% iron content, transforming what was previously considered waste into valuable feedstock, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

The world's largest magnetization roasting project for refractory iron ore based on this technology began operations in January this year. The project comprises three production lines, each capable of processing 1.85 million tonnes of refractory iron ore annually, with a conversion rate of 98%.

The breakthrough is expected to boost recycling of iron tailings and improve utilization of refractory iron ore resources in China, reducing reliance on imports while supporting demand from steelmaking and downstream industries including construction, bridges, automobiles and shipbuilding.