Prestudy: Needs and challenges concerning materials for the electrified society

Important results from the project

The purpose of the feasibility study was to identify how the strategic innovation program “Metallic materials” can strengthen Swedish industry´s ability to meet, and be part of, the transition to an electrified society with an effort in the best kind of way. The goal was to produce a foundation for future effort(s) in the area of materials for electrification. The data should be well rooted in the stakeholders in Swedish industry. The results were presented in a report which included a description of implementation, and identified areas for material-related issues.

Expected long term effects

The research needs that have been identified can be related to: Product and component properties, eg lightweight, sound, low friction losses, crash safety, fire properties, design aspects and cost-effectiveness. Material properties, eg need for renewable / available materials, increased performance, strength, tighter tolerances, heat conduction, electrical and magnetic properties, recycling and optimal material call for proposals for research projects in the field needs to enable an addressing of the above areas.

Approach and implementation

The intention has been to have as broad an approach as possible both in terms of industries and materials. The focus has been on material-related issues and on the needs and priorities of the stakeholders. The work has primarily been carried out as interviews and workshops with both industry and academia. At the beginning of the project meetings were held physically. Later, during the Covid19 pandemic, they were held via Teams. In connection with Metallic Materials´ program conference in March 2020, a workshop named "Materials for electrification" was held with approx. 40 participants.