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Research

The Primary Metallurgy Research Group is lead by Associate Professor Ville-Valtteri Visuri and focuses on the study of melting and refining processes in steelmaking, most importantly electric arc furnace (EAF) and converters. Recently, we have extended our activities to the study of hydrogen plasma smelting reduction (HPSR), a novel one-step process for reduction, melting and refining. Through experimentation, simulation, and comprehensive analysis of the process fundamentals, we seek to develop efficient CO2-lean operating practices in collaboration with the forerunners of the steel industry.

Our current efforts are focused on sustainable steelmaking practices, with a specific emphasis on utilization CO2-free direct reduced iron (DRI) in EAFs and smelters as well as using the HPSR process for reduction of iron ores and chromite. As for converters, we have extensive experience in argon-oxygen decarburisation (AOD) and basic oxygen furnaces (BOF). Our research activities cover also hot metal desulfurisation prior to BOF. Methodologically, we have competencies particularly in the development of dynamic mathematical models, utilization of computational thermodynamics and high-temperature experiments, and characterisation and modification of metallurgical slags.

The group consists of around 15 full-time personnel and collaborates with various leading research groups. Our work is supported by a broad funding base, including projects funded by the European Union, Business Finland, the Academy of Finland, industrial companies, and several foundations. We also welcome visiting researchers who are interested in contributing to developments in primary metallurgy and sustainable steel production.

Research areas

Research tools

Ongoing research projects

International funding bodies

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Research portfolio

Ironmaking and hot metal pretreatments

Primary metallurgy

Secondary metallurgy

Casting

Collaboration partners