(ECO-STEEL) ECO-FRIENDLY STAINLESS STEEL PRODUCTION FROM RECYCLED SCRAP

Project details

  • Funding: Project: 101296200 — ECO-STEEL — RFCS-2025
  • Project coordinator: IMDEA Materials
  • Project period: 01/10/2026-31/03/2030

IMDEA Materials' researchers

The project

Abstract

ECO-STEEL (Eco-Friendly Stainless Steel Production from Recycled Scrap) is a research project dedicated to developing cleaner, more energy-efficient routes for recycling ferritic stainless steel scrap. The project focuses on transforming post-production stainless steel scrap into high-quality sheets and rods while significantly reducing the need for conventional high-temperature melting.

ECO-STEEL explores two innovative technological pathways: twin-roll strip casting, a near-net-shape process that combines casting and rolling in a single step and a solid-state processing without melting. By moving from conventional steelmaking temperatures above 1600°C to lower-temperature processing routes, the project aims to reduce energy consumption, cut CO₂ emissions, and support a more circular and sustainable European steel industry.

The project targets ferritic stainless steels for applications such as home appliances, kitchen equipment, architectural components, cladding and exhaust systems, where cost-effective, corrosion-resistant and environmentally responsible materials are increasingly needed.

More information: https://eco-steel.eu/

Coordinator

Partners

  • RHEINISCH-WESTFAELISCHE TECHNISCHE HOCHSCHULE AACHEN
  • COMTES FHT AS (COMTES)
  • The University of Oulu
  • OUTOKUMPU STAINLESS OY (OUTOKUMPU)

Views and opinions expressed are, however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.