Future steelmaking technologies and the role of basic research

The steel industry is going through a technological revolution that will not only change how steel is produced but also the entire structure of the industry. The drivers for the new or improved technologies, including reduction in capital requirements, possible shortages in raw materials such as coke and low residual scrap, environmental concerns, and customer demands are briefly examined. The required response of the industry to these drivers will be new processes such as direct ironmaking, near net shape casting, and those to improve charge materials to the electric arc furnace (EAF).