Multi-Scale X-ray Spectroscopy for Ammonia-Rich Process Environments (SARP)
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | SWERIM AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 466 708 |
| Project duration | October 2026 - October 2028 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Research infrastructure - utilisation and collaboration |
| Call | Industrial utilization of neutron and synchrotron light-based techniques - Pilot projects and Development projects 2026 |
Purpose and goal
The aim is to validate a spectroscopic methodology for data-driven steel design and processing in ammonia-rich environments at the MAX IV-laboratory. Surface-sensitive ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy will be combined with grazing-incidence X-ray absorption and diffraction to correlate chemical and structural transformations. Objectives: show how trace oxygen affects oxide stability and nitrogen uptake (Outokumpu), and how nitrogen activity affects nitride formation (Ovako).
Expected effects and result
The project is expected to develop a multi-scale X-ray spectroscopic methodology linking surface chemistry to subsurface structural evolution, as well as generate knowledge about the effect of trace oxygen on nitrogen uptake and the role of nitrogen activity in nitriding. The results will support better material selection and process optimization, reduced use of critical alloying elements, increased use of NH3 as an energy carrier, and a stronger competitiveness for the Swedish steel industry.
Planned approach and implementation
The project is carried out in six activities from October 2026 to October 2028 and coordinated by Swerim. After experimental design and sample preparation (A1) and laboratory exposures (A2), beamtime is secured (A3) before measurements which are performed at HIPPIE and BALDER using proprietary and academic access (A4). Data are analyzed and correlated with laboratory results (A5). Knowledge is transferred to Ovako and Outokumpu and disseminated outside of the project consortium (A6).