In 2019, the Action Plan of the Cluster BIG (Blue Italian Growth) was published. In its first section, it describes the technological and development roadmap. The actions within the "Sustainable, safe, connected and autonomous ship" technological area, identified along the "Shipbuilding and marine robotics" trajectory, include the introduction of high-performance materials, the design for LCA, and the weight reduction. These actions create a strong need for innovation and tend to bring about a radical change in a sector characterized by a low level of technology and a production often focused on traditionally methods and technologies. New materials involve the introduction of both new production techniques and new alternative connection techniques. For example, if you want to introduce aluminium alloy components in a ship made of steel to reduce the weights and, consequently, the consumptions or move the centre of gravity of the vessel downwards to increase stability and safety in navigation, the study of the most suitable connection between steel and aluminium becomes critical. In some large shipyards the two materials are connected by explosion welding joints made by external suppliers with the consequent need to understand the effectiveness and efficiency of the joint not only under mechanical stresses but also over time within an aggressive environment such as the marine one.

This issue is of great interest not only at the academic level, but above all at the industrial level; It has characterized the 2014-2020 programming and will also be central in the new Horizon Europe. 

In this context of strong interest of the naval industry towards joining and presence within the European, national and local planning operational tools, the creation of a specific Section is necessary. It can be not only a reference point for shipbuilding naval but also it can produce active and effective dynamics of meeting and comparison, of interaction and integration.