Outokumpu and Italian-based Acciaierie Valbruna SpA, have signed a non-exclusive patent and trademark license agreement, which grants Valbruna the right to use Outokumpu’s LDX 2101 duplex stainless steel grade in all long products, such as bar, rebar and wire products in the European Union, Norway and Switzerland. Lean Duplex grade LDX 2101, a low-nickel, high-strength stainless steel developed and patented by Outokumpu, was commercially introduced in 2002 and has met with great success in demanding applications. To further facilitate the market penetration of Lean Duplex, Outokumpu has awarded manufacturing licenses to stainless steel producers in Europe and Asia.