Leadership Vision 2100: Industrial Gases
Legacy Delivered by Late Leaders
Scene Setting – Munich, 2100
In a symbolic roundtable, two pioneers of the industrial gas industry — Carl von Linde (Refrigeration & Air Separation) and Gustaf Dalén (Safety & Automation, Nobel Laureate) — come together in memory.
They reflect on how their early inventions shaped the 20th century, and they outline a legacy roadmap for the industrial gas industry of 2100.
The Dialogue
Carl von Linde (Air Separation, Efficiency):
“In my time, we unlocked the air itself, separating oxygen, nitrogen, argon. In 2100, the industry must serve not only factories, but the planet. Energy efficiency and green hydrogen integration are the key.”
Gustaf Dalén (Automation, Safety):
“I invented safety devices and automated light systems. In 2100, automation and AI must make industrial gas delivery safer, cleaner, and instant. The industry must become invisible infrastructure: reliable, sustainable, and citizen-centered.”
Joint Legacy Roadmap 2100
1. Green Production & Circular Flows
- Full renewable-powered air separation & hydrogen electrolysis.
- Zero-emission production with carbon capture & reuse.
- Circular logistics: no waste in cylinders, pipelines, or supply chains.
2. Automation & AI Integration
- AI-driven smart grids balancing oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen demand.
- Predictive safety via sensors, preventing leaks or accidents.
- Autonomous last-mile delivery & refill systems.
3. Citizen-Centric Access
- Medical oxygen as guaranteed public utility.
- Affordable green hydrogen for mobility & industry.
- Transparent, democratized ownership of gas infrastructure.
Closing Legacy Words
Linde: “Efficiency was my contribution. In 2100, efficiency must mean sustainability.”
Dalén: “Automation saved lives in lighthouses. In 2100, it must safeguard both industry and citizens.”
Practical Roadmap 2100
- Green Flows: Renewable gases · Circular logistics · Net zero
- Automation: AI smart grids · Predictive safety · Autonomous supply
- Citizen Access: Public oxygen · Green hydrogen · Democratic ownership
