Roadmap for mechanical metallurgy

Purpose and goal

The purpose of MEK-MET has been to identify the most important research and education topics within the mechanical metallurgy, a field that focusses on the relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties in metals and alloys. The project has created a roadmap of the most important industrial research and development topics that need to be addressed in order to strengthen the position of Swedish industry in this field. There is also an identified need for further education of employees in industry, and for an increased focus on mechanical metallurgy at the universities.

Expected results and effects

Through the resulting research efforts outlined by the roadmap, the long-term purpose is to facilitate faster development of new advanced materials through increased the knowledge about mechanical properties and understanding of mechanical behaviour in metallic materials.

Planned approach and implementation

The roadmap has been established through a number of workshops, which included both discussions about state-of-the art within mechanical metallurgy as well as identifying important underlying research questions that need to be addressed. Special focus has been on the industrial needs, both at the workshops and through additional meetings at each participating company. The roadmap was finally summarised and discussed between all project parties, and a prioritisation of topics for research and education has been made.