Metals and manufacturing @ next generation sources: Bridging the gap from basic science to production for the metals and manufacturing industry

Research Project, 2021 – 2024

The extreme brightness and unique properties of the next generation X-ray and neutron sources; MAX IV and ESS, represent a huge opportunity to study the complex heterogeneous materials used in the metals and manufacturing industry - even during their fabrication and use.
However, integrating these new methods into industrial R&D is a challenge as it involves bridging all technical readiness levels (TRLs) from basic science to industrial utilization. We will address this in a direct way by tackling five fundamental research challenges defined with industry partners. Real experience from addressing specific problems is a powerful way to develop competence and capacity at ESS and MAX IV as well as in the industry/universities to naturally incorporate facility use in the Swedish industry R&D cycle. This will also support new in situ and in operando methods implemented at the facilities to solve relevant industrial questions. We are uniquely qualified, as we combine researchers with experience across all TRLs, from fundamental science at MAX IV/ESS, to advanced university based methods, to industrial production.  The grant will allow the complete process of project design, implementation, analysis and impact on products. A large number of industrial partners and industrial organizations as well as the liason offices at the facilities are involved guaranteeing that the general methods and concepts will be broadly disseminated and used.