Paving the Way for Green Industrial Transition

Luleå University of Technology is a key partner in a new competence center developing energy-efficient solutions for industry. Through advanced models, the project aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and contribute to innovations that strengthen the green transition.

Luleå University of Technology is one of three academic partners in the extensive competence center AdTherM, which focuses on improving energy management within the industry. The goal is to reduce climate impact, increase efficiency, and develop technologies that can help Sweden achieve a climate-neutral industry by 2045.
"The industry faces major challenges in understanding and optimizing the complex processes governing heat transfer and flow. This is where AdTherM can make a real difference," says Anna-Lena Ljung, Associate Professor in Fluid Mechanics at Luleå University of Technology.

Solutions for a Sustainable Industry

Luleå University of Technology leads a central part of the project, which involves understanding how gas and liquid flows, heat transfer, and chemical reactions interact in industrial processes. By developing and testing advanced computer models, researchers can simulate and optimize these processes, making it possible to reduce energy losses and create more efficient systems, for example, for cooling and heat recovery.
"We are working to validate our models against real and complex scenarios, such as droplet dynamics and phase transformation or flows in porous materials. The goal is to create solutions that are both reliable and useful for industry," explains Anna-Lena Ljung.

In addition to heat management, the researchers are also investigating innovative technologies, such as advanced material structures and techniques that minimize heat losses. Such solutions can contribute to lower energy consumption and a better working environment in industry.

Anna-Lena Ljung, Associate Professor of Fluid Mechanics at Luleå University of Technology.

Collaboration Driving Change

AdTherM is not just a research project – it is also a platform for collaboration between academia and industry. Together with Lund University, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, and twelve industry partners, Luleå University of Technology is working to meet industrial needs and drive technological development forward. The results are expected not only to improve processes and reduce emissions but also to contribute to innovations and educational material for the future.
"AdTherM is an example of how research and industry can collaborate to solve major societal challenges. We want to create tools that strengthen both competitiveness and sustainability in Swedish industry," says Anna-Lena Ljung.

With funding for five years, and the possibility of an additional five-year extension, AdTherM is a long-term initiative aiming to strengthen Sweden's leading role in sustainable industrial development.

• Fluid mechanics
• AdTherM External link.