AI investments: Steel industry between risk and future opportunities!

AI investments: Steel industry between risk and future opportunities!

As of August 17, 2025, the results of a recent McKinsey survey show that 80 percent of companies in the steel and metals industry report that their investments in artificial intelligence (AI) have so far had no noticeable impact on operational results. This raises questions about the practical use of AI in production environments.

The industry is also faced with increasing challenges: the proportion of canceled AI projects rose dramatically from 17 to 42 percent in 2024. These developments are alarming companies, which report increasing pressure to digitize and exploit efficiency potential. Despite the high financial resources invested in AI, the practical benefits often remain unclear. A look at the market shows that even large automobile manufacturers such as Ford and Volkswagen have collectively invested around $3.6 billion in the start-up Argo AI, whose project ended in 2022 without a market-ready product.

Important perspectives for the future

Despite these setbacks, there are opinions that predict long-term growth in AI as a productivity tool. Gartner predicts that after a period of disappointment, AI could become a reliable tool. Companies in the steel and metal industry should invest specifically in applications that create concrete added value in production, quality management and the supply chain.

However, one of the biggest challenges remains developing practical solutions from the global hype surrounding the technology. The need for strategic use of AI for industrial progress remains unbroken. It is crucial to promote innovative approaches in order to meet the growing requirements of the industry.

AI and its health effects

Another interesting aspect of the recently discussed technologies is the influence of AI on the healthcare field, especially in the context of emergencies, where, for example, potassium iodide (AI) can be used. Potassium iodide is a non-radioactive form of iodine that is used to block the absorption of radioactive iodine by the thyroid. In the event of a radiation emergency, health risks can be minimized by consuming radioactive iodine.

However, it is important to emphasize that potassium iodide is not safe and should only be taken when directed by health authorities or medical professionals. Additionally, taking potassium iodide shortly before or within four hours of exposure is most effective. It is strongly recommended for people under 40 years of age and for pregnant or breastfeeding women, but it does not provide protection against other radioactive materials or in other types of radioactive emergencies.

The discussion about AI investments and their transparency in the steel and metal industry as well as the health aspects of potassium iodide show how diverse the effects of modern technologies are on different areas of life. Companies and individuals must critically consider where and how they invest and what strategies they pursue in crisis situations.