Sustainable infrastructures through increased use of stainless steels

Important results from the project

The feasibility study goals have been met. The project has been able to show potential with the introduction of stainless steel in bridges. In addition, innovative design solutions have been applied, which can lower the investment cost, thereby reducing the life cycle cost further. Significant barriers to a broad introduction of stainless steel in infrastructure have been identified as e.g. price and knowledge level. A plan has been prepared for national impact on stainless steel in infrastructure construction and is a part of the planned continuation project.

Expected long term effects

The feasibility study has shown that there is potential for reducing both CO2 emissions and cost over technical life through the introduction of stainless steel into infrastructure applications. In order to reach a greater impact, knowledge about the materials and how to use them must be increased throughout the value chain, and in the long term, clearer and harmonized standards are needed. Participants have identified some knowledge slots through the study, but also gained a lot of new knowledge and are ready to make it available to the entire value chain in the continuation project.

Approach and implementation

The feasibility study has been managed by a project committee with representatives from participating companies and research executives and with active participation from research director at Jernkontoret. During the project´s term, the committee gathered physically three times of which twice in the form of workshops. Mette Frodigh of Sandvik Materials Technology was chairman. The implementation has been successful and all participants have contributed with knowledge from their part of the value chain.