CircSmeltSteel Partner, SMS Research Group

As part of our ongoing partner spotlight series, we continue to introduce the organisations that make up our consortium. Each partner brings unique expertise and plays an important role in helping us achieve the project’s objectives

Meet SMS Research Group

We are pleased to highlight the contribution of the SMS Research Group at Ghent University, whose expertise in high-temperature slag characterization supports several key project activities.

Within CircSmeltSteel, the SMS research group performs advanced measurements of slag viscosity and electrical conductivity, two crucial parameters for understanding and optimizing electric steelmaking processes.

Their work includes:

✅Measuring the viscosity and electrical conductivity of synthetic EAF and ESF slags, based on slag compositions defined within the project. These experimental data provide essential input for the process models.

✅Characterizing the viscosity and electrical conductivity of pilot-scale and industrial slags generated during Electric Smelting Furnace (ESF), Electric Arc Furnace (EAF), and secondary metallurgy trials.

These measurements contribute to a better understanding of slag behaviour, supporting process optimization, improved operational efficiency, and the increased use of secondary raw materials in future low-carbon steel production.

By combining advanced experimental characterization with process modeling, the SMS research group is helping to build the scientific foundation needed to accelerate the transition towards a more circular and sustainable European steel industry.

🌐 Learn more about the SMS research group Ghent University: http://www.ugent.be/ea/match/sms