Metals, Polymers, and the Future of Manufacturing: An Interdisciplinary Roadmap for Industrial Engineers

Abstract

The convergence of Industrial Engineering (IE) and Materials Science (MS) has emerged as a
critical interdisciplinary framework for addressing contemporary manufacturing challenges,
particularly in achieving sustainability and technological advancement. This review examines
the evolving role of IE in navigating the demands of globalization, energy efficiency, and
environmental stewardship through the lens of material innovation. By analyzing trends such
as Industry 4.0 and 5.0, additive manufacturing, and sustainable polymers, the study
highlights how advancements in MS—such as nanotechnology, biodegradable materials, and
metal recycling—are reshaping industrial processes. The integration of human-centric design,
energy-efficient systems, and circular economy principles underscores the necessity for
collaboration between academia and industry to drive scalable, eco-conscious manufacturing
solutions. The findings emphasize that the synergy between IE and MS is indispensable for
fostering resilient, adaptive, and sustainable industrial ecosystems.