IIW Annual Report 2025

The ongoing energy transition has introduced new and challenging service environments , with hydrogen technologies emerging as a major topic across several Commissions. Current research activities include fracture toughness testing at cryogenic temperatures for liquid hydrogen storage , studies of hydrogen-induced fracture mechanisms in steels , and the assessment and inspection of welded joints in hydrogen pipelines . Round-robin testing programmes , focused intermediate meetings and the preparation of draft standards all demonstrate the strong commitment of the Structural Integrity group to supporting the safe deployment of hydrogen infrastructure . Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are increasingly acting as key enabling tools within this group. They support activities such as microstructure simulation , prediction of weld properties , and fracture and fatigue assessment , and are being explored more widely for the design and evaluation of welded structures . In parallel, knowledge exchange is strengthened through joint seminars , symposia and collaborative meetings .

Prof. Mitsuru Ohata TMB Member - Group 2 (CV, IX, X, XI, XIII, XV) Chair of IIW Commission X Structural Performances of Welded Joints - Fracture Avoidance

StructuraIndustry Support - Enabling Sustainable and Transferable Innovation The Industry Support group plays an essential role in ensuring that scientific and technological advances developed within IIW are effectively transferred into industrial practice . Through coordinated activities in standardisation , health and safety , education and training , and quality management , the group provides the frameworks and tools needed to make innovation both sustainable and widely applicable . Standardisation remains a central element of this work. Important progress has been achieved with the preparation of a new part of the ISO 25901 series dedicated to laser welding , which is ready to move forward within the relevant ISO technical committees . At the same time, the revision of ISO/TR 25901-1 on general terms and definitions has been initiated, recognising the need to keep basic terminology aligned with rapidly evolving welding and allied processes . Further activities related to plastics joining and thermal cutting extend the scope of industrial support provided by the group. Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) aspects are becoming increasingly important as new technologies are introduced into industrial environments . The Industry Support group offers an interdisciplinary platform for monitoring regulatory developments , exchanging experience and developing best practices related to exposure to physical and chemical agents . A notable result of this work is the collaborative publication of guidance on handheld laser beam welding , addressing safety aspects of a technology with growing industrial relevance . Other important focus areas include welding fumes , fume extraction and mitigation strategies , and the increasing use of collaborative robot welding systems . Education, training and human capital development form another key pillar of Industry Support activities. Work in this area explores innovative training approaches such as digital learning , augmented and virtual reality , intelligent manufacturing concepts and the use of large language models . Particular emphasis is placed on attracting the next generation , including Young Professionals , and on supporting educators in responding to evolving technological and pedagogical challenges . Complementary activities in quality management focus on updating standards , defining competency requirements for quality personnel and integrating digitalisation and AI into quality management systems , providing practical and globally relevant support to industry and end-users .

Mr David Werba TMB Member - Group 3 (VI,VIII, XIV, XVIII) Chair of IIW Commission VIII Health, Safety and Environment

As a closing and shared remarkable shared by the three representatives, the efficient involvement of Young Professionals in the Technical Commissions stands out as one of the key highlights, making a substantial contribution to the quality, continuity and effectiveness of IIW’s technical work.

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