Newcastle conference invites research across sustainable iron and steelmaking processes
Abstract submissions are now open for NewIRON 2027, with researchers and industry professionals invited to contribute to an international conference covering the technologies, materials and processes shaping lower emission iron and steelmaking.
Abstract submissions have opened for NewIRON 2027, the third edition of an international conference hosted by the BHP Centre for Sustainable Steelmaking Research at the University of Newcastle.
Formerly known as the International Conference on Sustainable Cokemaking and Ironmaking, the conference builds on previous events that brought together researchers and industry representatives to discuss sustainable iron and steelmaking. According to the organisers, earlier conferences attracted strong attendance, international speakers and positive feedback.
The 2027 conference will continue that approach while being presented under the theme New Pathways to Sustainable Iron and Steelmaking.
Abstract submissions close on 30 September 2026.
Conference reflects a broad technical program
NewIRON 2027 will examine research and industrial practice across the iron and steelmaking process, with sessions covering low emission iron and steelmaking technologies, raw materials, decarbonisation pathways, sustainable cokemaking, and process integration and optimisation.
Technical sessions will include modified blast furnace technologies, direct reduced iron, DRI electric smelting furnace process routes and emerging technologies.
The conference will also examine raw material requirements for lower carbon blast furnace operations and direct reduced iron production, together with sintering, pelletising, briquetting and research into reduction, smelting and gasification.
Other sessions will focus on auxiliary reductants, electrolysis processes, hydrogen and electricity utilisation, biomass utilisation and supply chains, regional developments, carbon capture and utilisation, and the use of iron and steelmaking slags.
Sustainable cokemaking remains part of the program through discussions on new cokemaking technologies, renewable additives, stamp charging technology and coke quality requirements for lower carbon blast furnace operations.
Program extends beyond conference presentations
Registrations for NewIRON 2027 will open on 1 September 2026, with successful speakers to be notified by 30 November 2026. Registration closes on 31 January 2027.
The conference program includes a welcome function on 14 March 2027, conference sessions on 15 and 16 March, a gala dinner on the evening of 15 March and site visits on 17 March.
Best Paper and Best Student Paper awards will again be presented during the conference.
Collaboration between research and industry
The conference is intended to bring together academic and industry participants to share knowledge, identify future research opportunities, and examine the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition towards near zero carbon emissions in the steel industry.
With abstract submissions open to both researchers and industry professionals, the conference offers organisations involved in steelmaking, manufacturing, mining, engineering, equipment supply and industrial research an opportunity to present technical work while engaging with developments across the broader iron and steelmaking sector.
