A Dual-Use Design Logic for chemical and biochemical engineering

In chemical and biochemical engineering, core research outputs, such as advanced polymers, process intensification, and energy storage systems, often have potential relevance to civilian and defence applications. Yet researchers are largely unprepared to recognise or responsibly develop this potential, and many avoid the topic for fear of bureaucratic burden. Based on recent European Commission reports and university guidelines, we propose the Dual-Use Design Logic (DUDL), a four-phase framework to advance civil–defence synergies in scientific research. DUDL helps researchers integrate dual-use considerations from the project ideation stage, identify legitimate application pathways, and design proportionate safeguards without imposing unnecessary administrative burden. Its effective implementation, however, will require institutions to build compliance capacity. We illustrate DUDL using our research on silicone elastomers for extreme environments.