On 24th April 2025, Stelios Tampouris, R&D Manager at LARCO, proudly represented the HEPHAESTUS project at the International Nickel Study Group (INSG) meeting in Lisbon, Portugal. As a partner in the Horizon Europe-funded HEPHAESTUS project, LARCO plays a key role in advancing innovative technologies for the recovery and reuse of metallurgical by-products, with a particular focus on nickel-containing residues.

During the closed-door event, attended by government and industry representatives from key nickel-producing and consuming countries, Dr. Tampouris introduced the HEPHAESTUS project and its pioneering approach to circularity in the metallurgical sector. His presentation focused on the project’s potential to recover valuable materials, including nickel, from electric arc furnace (EAF) dust and other industrial residues, which is a topic of growing importance in the context of Europe’s resource independence and sustainability goals.

The INSG, established in 1990, serves as a leading intergovernmental platform for the collection and analysis of nickel market data and for fostering dialogue among global stakeholders. Its biannual meetings provide a strategic forum for discussing trends, regulations, and innovations in the nickel industry.

By bringing the HEPHAESTUS project into this international spotlight, Mr. Tampouris helped emphasize the project’s strategic contribution to nickel recycling, environmental stewardship, and technological innovation. His participation also reinforced the importance of industry-research collaboration in delivering viable, scalable solutions for critical raw materials recovery.

This engagement reflects HEPHAESTUS’ growing visibility in the global metals community and its commitment to shaping the future of sustainable metallurgy. Read the press release of the event here.