Two new research projects strengthen BTH’s role in sustainable industrial transformation
- Post by: Tobias Larsson
- 12th November 2025
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Blekinge Institute of Technology’s Product Development Research Lab (PDRL) with a research core of Mechanical Engineering continues to advance its research agenda in sustainable product development and digital engineering through two newly approved projects: MISO and OREEL. Both projects deepen collaboration between academia and industry, addressing key challenges in electrification, automation, and simulation for a more sustainable industrial future.
MISO – Mining and Infrastructure Simulation Optimization
The MISO project (0.8 MSEK VINNOVA FFI) focuses on developing simulation-based tools and methods to optimize operations in mining and infrastructure contexts. Bringing together partners such as Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE), Epiroc, and Blekinge Institute of Technology, the project will enable new ways of co-creating and evaluating sustainable production solutions through digital platforms and system-level simulations.
“We’re excited to launch this new project in the mining sector, strengthening the years-long collaboration with VCE and including a partner such as Epiroc in our research. The project builds upon our previous research results, taking our work to the next level and demonstrating the strength and continuity of our approach. This collaboration in the Accelerera FFI program highlights how scientific results can be transformed into practical solutions, now moving closer to real-world application and commercialization.”
— Professor Alessandro Bertoni, BTH.
“I think this is a great opportunity for us to expand our capabilities and, together with Epiroc and Volvo CE, see how we can support the green transition. I personally look forward to seeing how we can create simulation platforms for co-creation in quarrying and mining.”
— Carl Toller, PhD candidate, BTH.
OREEL – ORE Enrichment Enabled by E-Logistics
The OREEL (49.7 MSEK VINNOVA FFI) project aims to demonstrate large-scale electrified logistics systems enabling sustainable ore enrichment in the mining industry. Coordinated by Lindholmen Science Park within the VINNOVA Accelerera FFI program, with 15 partners and involving major industrial partners such as Boliden, LKAB and Volvo CE, OREEL will explore system-level electrification solutions from mine to smelter, showcasing how emission-free logistics can be achieved in practice.
“The OREEL project reflects how applied research and close collaboration with industry can accelerate the shift towards electrified and sustainable mining systems.”
— Professor Tobias C. Larsson, Blekinge Institute of Technology
Both projects illustrate BTH’s commitment to bridging the gap between research and industrial application, supporting Sweden’s leadership in innovation, sustainable manufacturing, digital transformation, and the green transition.