It is reported that Astra Mining, an Australian diversified mining company has received an independent expert opinion from Hungary University of Miskolc confirming the potential of its revolutionary new steel manufacturing process.

Astra claims that the end product, T-Steel is significantly stronger than regular steel and provides vast production, operational and environmental benefits. The company has taken the opportunity with the devolution of the Eastern bloc countries to acquire the technology and roll it out globally.

Dr Jaydeep Biswas CEO of Astra Mining said the independent verification of the steel’s unique properties comes from one of the University of Miskolc leading metallurgical engineers, Professor Emeritus Dr Farkas Otto.

He said that “This expert opinion on a study into the preparation of the production of T-Steel confirms it has better qualities compared to traditional steels.”

Dr Biswas said “It also confirms the CO2 emission in its manufacture can be up to two times less than with traditional steel making technologies, reducing a manufacturing plants carbon footprint which is highly beneficial to the environment. He said that Astra has a substantial 30% ownership of T-Steel IP and has full operational and management control of its business, so we are very excited to receive this independent verification.”

The basic product which includes the use of unique alloy based formulas invented over a 30 year period in Hungary is based on a process which can modify the metallurgical properties of steel at a molecular level.

Dr Biswas said “T-Steel can be produced by existing steel mills with little or no retrofitting needed, however this can only be done if the mills have access to the T-Steel technology and the correct steel plant operation conditions.”

He said that “Astra is in negotiations for a long term co-operation agreement with one the world’s largest steel traders for the DAM Steel Works in Hungary which will produce 500,000 tonnes per year of T-Steel annually. The acquisition of DAM Steel plant is not a pre-requisite for rollout for the T-Steel technology it is one part of a comprehensive business plan.”

He added that “This strategic relationship would position Astra ideally to capitalize on its strategic growth plan and market T-Steel products worldwide.”

Astra Mining global portfolio includes gold and tin interests in south East Asia and southern India, coal mines in Australia and iron ore in India. Astra has also announced plans to list on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the coming months.

(Sourced from www.miningmagazine.com)