The European cement and metallurgical industries are demonstrating active progress toward decarbonisation and production modernisation. Two significant developments affecting the market for blast furnace slag (ACS and GBFS) took place in the United Kingdom and Germany. Both events create new opportunities for cement producers, metallurgical companies, and suppliers of secondary raw materials.
Holcim UK strengthens its GBFS market position with a new terminal in Tilbury
Holcim UK has announced the appointment of Krish Patel as manager of the new cement terminal and slag processing plant in Tilbury (Essex). The facility will become one of the key production centres of GGBFS (granulated blast furnace slag) in the United Kingdom.
The new complex will include:
- modern facilities for blast furnace slag processing;
- production of low‑carbon cementitious materials;
- a logistics terminal for supplying GBFS to the UK and European markets.
This project is strategically important, as GBFS is one of the most effective clinker substitutes, enabling a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of cement products. The plant is expected to be commissioned in 2026, increasing the availability of slag‑based raw materials for cement manufacturers across Europe. 🔗 Source: Holcim UK — appointment of the new slag plant manager
https://www.globalslag.com/news/1084-holcim-uk-appoints-krish-patel-as-manager-of-upcoming-tilbury-cement-terminal-and-slag-plant
Germany increases funding for the Salzgitter low‑carbon steel project
The German government has announced expanded funding for the Salzgitter Low‑Carbon Steel project, aimed at modernising metallurgical production and reducing CO₂ emissions. The programme includes a transition from traditional blast furnace technology to more environmentally friendly steelmaking processes.
This decision will directly impact the market:
- ACS (air‑cooled blast furnace slag) — its production volumes will change in line with blast furnace modernisation;
- GBFS — demand for granulated slag will grow as EU cement plants increasingly adopt low‑carbon formulations;
- secondary metallurgical raw materials — the need for processing steelmaking by‑products will rise.
The Salzgitter project is one of the largest “green steel” initiatives in Europe and will shape the dynamics of the slag market in the coming years.
🔗 Source: Germany to increase funding for Salzgitter low‑carbon steel project
https://gmk.center/en/news/germany-to-increase-funding-for-salzgitter-low-carbon-steel-project/