A self-reliance framework for identifying strategic advanced materials

Abstract

Abstract Global supply chain disruptions make securing raw materials for next-generation technologies an urgent priority. Raw materials are currently deemed ‘critical’ based on their supply risk and ‘strategic’ if vital for green or digital transitions. However, these frameworks do not yet cover advanced materials, the complex, engineered substances like nanomaterials that are the drivers of modern innovation. Here we introduce a self-reliance index that quantifies European autonomy for elements, compounds and devices, using import dependence, recycling rates and supplier concentration. Linking this index to the state-of-the-art performance of a broad range of advanced materials, across conductors, semiconductors, dielectrics, battery electrodes and photovoltaic layers, we find that high-performance materials based on heavily imported elements almost always have European-sourced substitutes with comparable performance. We propose defining ‘strategic advanced materials’ as those offering high performance through locally available inputs. This framework provides a selection tool for researchers and policymakers to strengthen supply chain resilience and drive European technological sovereignty.