Jens Hardell, Professor of Machine Elements, opened today’s seminar.
22 May 2025
International seminar in Luleå highlights fossil-free steel and future production methods
Researchers from Luleå University of Technology and the University of Oulu gathered in Luleå for an international seminar on fossil-free steel production. Through joint projects and focused areas, collaboration is strengthened to meet industry needs in the green transition.
For the third time, researchers from Luleå University of Technology and the University of Oulu came together to discuss fossil-free steel production within the framework of the FINAST project at LTU and the FOSSA project – Fossil-Free Steel Applications at University of Oulu. This time, the seminar was held in Luleå and offered a full day of scientific presentations, knowledge exchange, and networking.
The seminar was divided into thematic sessions on hydrogen, steel applications, and process modelling. Topics ranged from hydrogen diffusion and explosion modelling to green lubricants, machine learning, and bio-based processes in steel production.
Phd Student Anniina Merenluoto presented how the slag formed during hydrogen-based steelmaking can be modified and shaped to influence its internal structure.
Speakers included both senior researchers and doctoral students from both universities. The seminar was opened by Professor Jens Hardell from Luleå University of Technology and Professor Jukka Kömi from the University of Oulu.
"The green transition in northern Sweden and Finland includes, for example, the conversion of two existing steel mills and the establishment of a new fossil-free steel mill. In this context, the collaboration between our universities plays a key role," said Jens Hardell, Professor of Machine Elements at Luleå University of Technology.
Jukka Körni, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Oulu, spoke about the collaborative project FOSSA Ecosystem.
The seminar marks an important milestone in the collaboration between Luleå University of Technology and University of Oulu, which aims to develop new knowledge and applications for a fossil-free steel industry.
"These seminars allow us to exchange the latest research, create networks, and give PhD students a chance to learn from one another. This strengthens the research and builds a strong community around fossil-free steel in the Baltic Sea region," said Jukka Kömi, Professor of Materials Science at the University of Oulu.
FINAST – Fossil-Free Steel for a Greener Future
The FINAST project (Research and Innovation in Norrbotten for Advanced Green Steelmaking and Manufacturing) is an interdisciplinary research initiative funded by the EU Just Transition Fund and the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth (Tillväxtverket).
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