On 5 June 2025, Melanie Leitner from K1-MET GmbH presented two RFCS projects (@HBI C-Flex and @Safe H-DRI) at the ESTEP Spring Dissemination Event in Krakow. Both projects are coordinated by K1-MET.

• HBI C-Flex focuses on the reoxidation behaviour and stability of direct reduced and hot briquetted iron with variable iron and carbon content (more information: www.hbi-c-flex.eu).
• Safe H-DRI addresses safe handling and transport of hydrogen-based direct reduced iron for a decarbonisation of the steel industry (more information: www.safe-h-dri.eu).

In her presentations, Melanie provided an overview of both projects, their expected outcomes and shared some first experimental results. The event offered an excellent opportunity to share progress with the European steel research community and to promote cooperation among various projects.