Flow chemistry for the production of critical components

Purpose and goal

This project aims to develop modular production systems using flow chemistry to manufacture solid critical components, with a particular focus on explosives. The background is the growing need for safe and flexible manufacturing in the defence industry due to the deteriorating global security situation. The project addresses the technical challenges of handling solids in flow reactors, which offer improved safety and flexibility compared to conventional batch production.

Expected effects and result

By constructing compact and mobile units, production capacity can be quickly adapted as needed and reducing reliance on individual facilities, which strengthens Sweden’s ability to support and supply both the military and civil sectors. In the long term, the company envisions the establishment of continuous manufacturing as the standard for both military and civilian applications. In this way, Sweden can be positioned as an internationally leading player in advanced process technology.

Planned approach and implementation

The project begins with the rapid adaptation of existing solutions and established flow technology to manage solids in flow. Standard components will be used to reduce risk and lead time, which, along with iterative design and verification, is expected to deliver swift results. Various techniques to prevent flow blockages will be evaluated on inert materials before being applied to explosives. Once the technology is established, a pilot plant will be constructed for production testing.