3M Explores 6 Key Technologies Shaping the Future of Innovation
Navigating Rapid Change: 3M's Vision for the Future of Technology
In an era marked by rapid technological evolution, globalization, and economic uncertainty, the pace of change is unprecedented. To better understand which technologies will shape the way we live, work, and interact, 3M recently conducted an extensive study. The result? Six transformative technology categories emerged as pivotal: artificial intelligence and computational technologies, immersive experiences, nanotechnology, energy solutions, environmental advancements, and electronic innovation.
These areas are poised to significantly influence the trajectory of both digital and material science, guiding society from current capabilities toward future breakthroughs. Ben Watson, R&D Strategy Leader at 3M’s Corporate Research Labs, led the “Technologies for the Future” initiative, which reviewed 80 anonymized proposals and identified 30 standout technologies. These were then organized into the six overarching themes.
3M’s innovation pipeline aligns closely with these core areas and aims to drive both present-day developments and what’s on the horizon. "At 3M, our relentless drive for inventive solutions, supported by a strong global collaborative culture, allows us to constantly redefine the boundaries of material science," said John Banovetz, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. "Our expertise empowers us to address pressing challenges in mobility, safety, the workforce, and energy, while envisioning a future shaped by transformative technologies."
The Future of Mobility: AI, Computational Power, and Nanotech Lead the Way
With over a billion vehicles on the road, transportation continues to inspire innovation. The expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) has become a catalyst for material innovation across the automotive sector, from battery tech to interior components.
Meeting Current Needs
3M is tackling today’s automotive challenges with advancements in battery materials, thermal management, adhesives, and display technologies. For instance, 3M Glass Bubbles reduce the weight of composites; thermal management solutions help control heat in EV batteries; adhesives aid in efficient battery disassembly and recycling; and optical films improve in-car display performance and connectivity.
Artificial intelligence is also speeding up the discovery of new materials like nanocomposites that improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall vehicle performance.
Looking Ahead
“AI will help uncover high-performance materials tailored to extend EV battery life and performance, addressing common range anxiety,” explained Tom Clausen, Global Lab Director of Computer Science at 3M. Additionally, ultra-high refractive index nanocomposites will enhance screen clarity, while next-gen passive cooling materials could reduce the need for heavy and costly climate control systems.
Connecting Safety with Innovation: Electronics and Environmental Technology
Safety remains a cornerstone of industrial and community well-being. Increasingly, manufacturers are embracing advanced technologies to mitigate long-standing risks and create safer work environments.
Today’s Innovations
3M has long been a leader in safety, producing essential products like the N95 respirator and offering VR-based safety training tools. Their high-visibility materials also improve roadway safety for drivers and pedestrians alike.
The Future Outlook
“Artificial intelligence is making factories smarter—enhancing production efficiency, monitoring real-time conditions, and improving worker safety,” said Brian Brooks, Senior Staff Scientist at 3M. Cyber-physical materials—smart substances that react to changes in pressure, heat, or light—will play a major role in this transformation, seamlessly integrating with digital systems to boost both safety and operational performance.
Advanced materials will also be developed for extreme environments, helping ensure the reliability of transportation and energy components while keeping workers safe under harsh conditions, according to Matt Frey, Senior Staff Scientist at 3M.
Driving a Cleaner Tomorrow: Energy Technology and the Future Grid
As the global energy demand grows, countries are racing to modernize infrastructure, improve energy efficiency, and secure sustainable power sources. Innovative materials and scalable solutions are crucial to achieving these goals.
Current Focus
3M is making significant contributions to energy infrastructure, including advanced materials like ACCR (Aluminum Conductor Composite Reinforced) cables that allow more electricity to travel over longer distances without building additional towers. Their hydrogen catalysis technology is also helping to produce clean hydrogen fuel, supporting global clean energy targets.
What’s Next
"Imagine buildings that double as energy generators," said Bill Weber, Director of Business Development at 3M Ventures. He predicts wider adoption of solar technologies embedded into construction materials, drastically cutting urban carbon emissions. Meanwhile, Silicon Photonics will support energy-efficient data transmission—reducing the power demands of AI applications and digital infrastructure.
Closing the Skills Gap: Immersive Technologies in Workforce Development
According to the National Association of Manufacturers, a shortage of skilled labor could leave over 2 million manufacturing roles unfilled by 2030. Even though many recognize the importance of tech-related skills, there’s still widespread concern that automation could displace jobs.
How 3M Is Helping
3M is addressing these concerns through programs that cultivate the next generation of STEM professionals. Initiatives like the Manufacturing and Academic Partnerships (MAP), SkillsUSA, and WorldSkills connect industry with education to prepare workers for high-tech roles.
What the Future Holds
Immersive technologies such as Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) offer potential game-changing ways to train workers, allowing users to explore realistic 3D environments recreated from basic visual data. Kevin Gotrik from 3M’s Corporate Research Lab believes such tools could significantly enhance hands-on training.
Additionally, materials readable by AR and VR devices could further blur the lines between the physical and digital worlds, increasing both safety and efficiency on the job.
Beyond the Forecast: Embracing the Unexpected
While 3M’s strategic roadmap focuses on six foundational technology domains, the company remains open to unexpected breakthroughs—whether in quantum computing, synthetic biology, or entirely new material classes.
Jayshree Seth, 3M’s Chief Science Advocate, reminds us that the future will likely include surprises. These “wildcards” have the power to reshape our understanding of what’s possible. By fostering collaboration and imagination, 3M aims to shape a future where innovation uplifts industries, communities, and the planet.
In an era marked by rapid technological evolution, globalization, and economic uncertainty, the pace of change is unprecedented. To better understand which technologies will shape the way we live, work, and interact, 3M recently conducted an extensive study. The result? Six transformative technology categories emerged as pivotal: artificial intelligence and computational technologies, immersive experiences, nanotechnology, energy solutions, environmental advancements, and electronic innovation.
These areas are poised to significantly influence the trajectory of both digital and material science, guiding society from current capabilities toward future breakthroughs. Ben Watson, R&D Strategy Leader at 3M’s Corporate Research Labs, led the “Technologies for the Future” initiative, which reviewed 80 anonymized proposals and identified 30 standout technologies. These were then organized into the six overarching themes.
3M’s innovation pipeline aligns closely with these core areas and aims to drive both present-day developments and what’s on the horizon. "At 3M, our relentless drive for inventive solutions, supported by a strong global collaborative culture, allows us to constantly redefine the boundaries of material science," said John Banovetz, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. "Our expertise empowers us to address pressing challenges in mobility, safety, the workforce, and energy, while envisioning a future shaped by transformative technologies."
The Future of Mobility: AI, Computational Power, and Nanotech Lead the Way
With over a billion vehicles on the road, transportation continues to inspire innovation. The expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) has become a catalyst for material innovation across the automotive sector, from battery tech to interior components.
Meeting Current Needs
3M is tackling today’s automotive challenges with advancements in battery materials, thermal management, adhesives, and display technologies. For instance, 3M Glass Bubbles reduce the weight of composites; thermal management solutions help control heat in EV batteries; adhesives aid in efficient battery disassembly and recycling; and optical films improve in-car display performance and connectivity.
Artificial intelligence is also speeding up the discovery of new materials like nanocomposites that improve energy efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall vehicle performance.
Looking Ahead
“AI will help uncover high-performance materials tailored to extend EV battery life and performance, addressing common range anxiety,” explained Tom Clausen, Global Lab Director of Computer Science at 3M. Additionally, ultra-high refractive index nanocomposites will enhance screen clarity, while next-gen passive cooling materials could reduce the need for heavy and costly climate control systems.
Connecting Safety with Innovation: Electronics and Environmental Technology
Safety remains a cornerstone of industrial and community well-being. Increasingly, manufacturers are embracing advanced technologies to mitigate long-standing risks and create safer work environments.
Today’s Innovations
3M has long been a leader in safety, producing essential products like the N95 respirator and offering VR-based safety training tools. Their high-visibility materials also improve roadway safety for drivers and pedestrians alike.
The Future Outlook
“Artificial intelligence is making factories smarter—enhancing production efficiency, monitoring real-time conditions, and improving worker safety,” said Brian Brooks, Senior Staff Scientist at 3M. Cyber-physical materials—smart substances that react to changes in pressure, heat, or light—will play a major role in this transformation, seamlessly integrating with digital systems to boost both safety and operational performance.
Advanced materials will also be developed for extreme environments, helping ensure the reliability of transportation and energy components while keeping workers safe under harsh conditions, according to Matt Frey, Senior Staff Scientist at 3M.
Driving a Cleaner Tomorrow: Energy Technology and the Future Grid
As the global energy demand grows, countries are racing to modernize infrastructure, improve energy efficiency, and secure sustainable power sources. Innovative materials and scalable solutions are crucial to achieving these goals.
Current Focus
3M is making significant contributions to energy infrastructure, including advanced materials like ACCR (Aluminum Conductor Composite Reinforced) cables that allow more electricity to travel over longer distances without building additional towers. Their hydrogen catalysis technology is also helping to produce clean hydrogen fuel, supporting global clean energy targets.
What’s Next
"Imagine buildings that double as energy generators," said Bill Weber, Director of Business Development at 3M Ventures. He predicts wider adoption of solar technologies embedded into construction materials, drastically cutting urban carbon emissions. Meanwhile, Silicon Photonics will support energy-efficient data transmission—reducing the power demands of AI applications and digital infrastructure.
Closing the Skills Gap: Immersive Technologies in Workforce Development
According to the National Association of Manufacturers, a shortage of skilled labor could leave over 2 million manufacturing roles unfilled by 2030. Even though many recognize the importance of tech-related skills, there’s still widespread concern that automation could displace jobs.
How 3M Is Helping
3M is addressing these concerns through programs that cultivate the next generation of STEM professionals. Initiatives like the Manufacturing and Academic Partnerships (MAP), SkillsUSA, and WorldSkills connect industry with education to prepare workers for high-tech roles.
What the Future Holds
Immersive technologies such as Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF) offer potential game-changing ways to train workers, allowing users to explore realistic 3D environments recreated from basic visual data. Kevin Gotrik from 3M’s Corporate Research Lab believes such tools could significantly enhance hands-on training.
Additionally, materials readable by AR and VR devices could further blur the lines between the physical and digital worlds, increasing both safety and efficiency on the job.
Beyond the Forecast: Embracing the Unexpected
While 3M’s strategic roadmap focuses on six foundational technology domains, the company remains open to unexpected breakthroughs—whether in quantum computing, synthetic biology, or entirely new material classes.
Jayshree Seth, 3M’s Chief Science Advocate, reminds us that the future will likely include surprises. These “wildcards” have the power to reshape our understanding of what’s possible. By fostering collaboration and imagination, 3M aims to shape a future where innovation uplifts industries, communities, and the planet.
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