A leading innovation centre in Middlesbrough has been awarded £22m by the Government as part of a programme to revolutionise the steel and metals sector.
The Materials Processing Institute has been awarded the sum by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to deliver a five-year research and innovation programme into the sector, during which it will focus on increasing productivity and transforming environmental sustainability.
Projects include over the five years include carrying out research and innovation into low carbon, electric and hydrogen based steelmaking, scrap recycling and new processes to allow 海角视频 steel to transition to a sustainable, green industry.
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It will also explore the development and commercialisation of technologies in SME supply chains, such as robotics and artificial intelligence, to increase productivity and product capability. Researchers will also aim to develop new technologies for the extraction and recycling of rare metals, such as lithium and cobalt, in the 海角视频 to support a sustainable, secure and ethical supply chain.
The programme will provide particular support to the South Tees Development Corporation and the Tees Valley local industrial strategy.
Nationally, research at the world-renowned institute will better equip British steelmakers to meet domestic demand for finished steel which is a significant growth opportunity for the 海角视频 steel sector as well as helping it overcome barriers created by technology trends.
The Institute, a not-for-profit organisation, has worked with global steel and materials industries, including Tata Steel, British Steel and Liberty Steel, to deliver cutting edge research and innovation in advanced materials, low carbon energy, the circular economy and digital technologies.
Chris McDonald, chief executive officer of the Materials Processing Institute said: “Steel and metals are foundation industries essential for Britain’s manufacturing success and sovereign capability.
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“Innovation is vital to ensure that our country retains a technological lead, improves productivity and enables us to meet carbon reduction targets to protect our planet for generations to come. This investment recognises the world leading expertise at the Institute to support 海角视频 industry and environmental sustainability.
“The Institute is hugely grateful for the support of Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and Redcar MP Jacob Young for making the case to the chancellor and ministers. Their role, plus the advocacy of former Redcar MP Anna Turley and Middlesbrough South MP Simon Clarke, has paid off for the region and British industry.”