CoSiMa - concept for digitized development of the sustainable soft materials of the future

Purpose and goal

The purpose is to provide Swedish industry with the opportunity of efficient and flexible material development in a world with quickly changing demands and conditions. The focus is on industry with products where transport of liquids and dissolved molecules are important for the functionality. The aim is a flexible multidisciplinary concept for digitized sustainable material development, based on 3D-imaging of materials and simulation of structure dependent material function. Additionally, a business model will be developed for the use of the concept as a modular service.

Expected effects and result

The expected main result is a digital toolbox where the different parts: structure imaging, image processing and virtual design, and simulation of mass transport, have been validated experimentally och works together as a whole. This enables a novel and more flexible material development process. The expected effect when companies implement the digital way of working is a greater flexibility in the choice of raw materials, faster adaptation to new regulations and conditions, and improved material function leading to reduced energy or material consumption.

Planned approach and implementation

The project is performed in a consortium of four multinational companies, one research institute, one university and an industry organization. Two postdocs will be hired to work together with senior scientists to develop and integrate methods and software for all steps in the concept chain. The methods will be applied to porous materials of both low and high porosity, chosen by the companies. For these materials, the potential of the concept will be demonstrated. Production of materials as well as validation and evaluation of the concept will mostly take place at the companies.