Present status and perspectives of European research in the field of advanced structural steels

The status of steel research in Europe with particular emphasis to multipartner projects sponsored by the European Community for Steel and Coal (ECSC) is reviewed through specific examples in the field of high strength (HS) designed with various metallurgical options and made possible by different production routes. Modern HS sheets for car body and structural parts of the automotive as well as the new generation of very high strength pipes for high pressure gas lines are discussed in the light of their recent developments inside the European Community R&TD circuit. A rapid glance to HS steel wires for suspension bridges is also given with reference to the newly designed Messina Strait Bridge in Italy. Some reference to possibilities offered in properties enhancement by the new casting technologies (Thin Slab & Strip Casting) is rapidly commented.