Themes
Theme 1
Solutions for fossil-free electric steelmaking
Provides solutions for fossil-free steelmaking processes, covering the entire value chain from raw materials and energy to downstream operations, enabling manufacturing of fossil-free steels without compromising their performance and quality.
A transition from traditional blast furnace - basic oxygen furnace (BF BOF) steelmaking to hydrogen reduction and electric steelmaking poses challenges for the production of high-quality steels for two main reasons: the use of new raw materials and new processes, both of which affect final product quality.
In addition to the hydrogen-based reduction of iron ore, novel energy solutions tailored for specific unit processes enable further reductions in CO2 emissions from auxiliary processes in steelmaking, casting, hot rolling, cold rolling and steel sheet coating.
Theme 2
Optimization and development of sustainable fossil-free steelmaking through digitalization
Enables the development, manufacturing, and delivery of fossil-free steel products with high quality, efficiency, and reliability. This requires significant advancements in digitalization, technology, manufacturing processes and maintenance.
For the new production processes required for carbon-dioxide-free steel manufacturing, uninterrupted production and the ability to deliver quality are increasingly important. Therefore, new simulation models, digitalization tools, and AI models are needed to support these objectives. The use of new methods for manufacturing spare parts in maintenance, as well as more efficient use of lubricants, will reduce CO2 emissions and other environmental impacts.
Theme 3
Fossil free steel applications and value chains in high volumes
Accelerates the industrial adoption of fossil-free and low-CO₂ steels by co-developing advanced steel grades and high-volume end-use applications in close collaboration with Finnish and global industrial and academic partners.
The work will strengthen Finland’s role as a global leader in sustainable engineering applications, supporting industrial decarbonization, export growth, and system-level change across strategic value chains.
It will also accelerate the industrial adoption of fossil-free emission steels by co-developing advanced steel grades and high-volume end-use applications in close collaboration with Finnish and global industrial and academic partners. The work is structured around six strategic application areas that are vital to Finland’s industrial competitiveness.
Theme 4
Steel mill circular material valorization
Aims to maximize the value extracted from steelmaking by-products by developing innovative processing, modification, and application methods. The theme covers the characterization and enhancement of by-product properties, enabling their use in construction, infrastructure, and other industries.
It includes research on both non-modified and modified electric arc furnace (EAF) slags, as well as fine-grained Fe-containing materials, to expand their market potential and environmental benefits.
The theme also explores internal utilization, carbonization, and new agglomeration or reduction technologies to minimize waste and support circularity. Ultimately, the goal is to transform the steel mill into a near zero-waste operation, contributing to the overall sustainability and competitiveness of the Finnish steel industry.
