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Review

Quantum Computing as a Disruptive Technology: Implications for Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 5.0

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Howard Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
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Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(10), 4856; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104856
Submission received: 14 March 2026 / Revised: 8 April 2026 / Accepted: 14 April 2026 / Published: 13 May 2026
(This article belongs to the Section Quantum Science and Technology)

Abstract

Quantum computing is increasingly seen as a disruptive technology capable of expanding the computational limits of advanced manufacturing systems within the emerging Industry 5.0 framework. By utilizing quantum mechanical principles such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum parallelism, quantum computation enables new approaches to solving complex optimization, simulation, and data-intensive problems that are challenging or impractical for classical computers. This paper offers a comprehensive and critical review of the potential impacts of quantum computing on advanced manufacturing, focusing on intelligent production planning, supply chain optimization, materials discovery, predictive maintenance, and human–machine collaboration, key aspects of Industry 5.0. The originality of this review lies in its integrated analysis of quantum computing alongside artificial intelligence, digital twins, and cyber–physical systems, highlighting how these technologies, when combined, improve decision-making speed, process efficiency, and sustainability. Despite these opportunities, the integration of quantum computing into Industry 5.0 systems faces critical challenges, including hardware limitations, algorithm scalability, data security concerns, workforce readiness, and the complexity of integrating quantum solutions with existing industrial infrastructures. The role of hybrid quantum-classical architectures is examined as a feasible and transitional approach for near-term manufacturing applications. By critically assessing both technological strengths and practical constraints, this review positions quantum computing as a promising enabler of resilient, human-centered, and sustainable manufacturing ecosystems. The insights aim to assist researchers, industry players, and policymakers in strategically managing the integration of quantum technologies as manufacturing systems advance toward Industry 5.0.
Keywords: quantum computing; disruptive technology; advanced manufacturing; industry 5.0 quantum computing; disruptive technology; advanced manufacturing; industry 5.0

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Salawu, G.; Glen, B. Quantum Computing as a Disruptive Technology: Implications for Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 5.0. Appl. Sci. 2026, 16, 4856. https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104856

AMA Style

Salawu G, Glen B. Quantum Computing as a Disruptive Technology: Implications for Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 5.0. Applied Sciences. 2026; 16(10):4856. https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104856

Chicago/Turabian Style

Salawu, Ganiyat, and Bright Glen. 2026. "Quantum Computing as a Disruptive Technology: Implications for Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 5.0" Applied Sciences 16, no. 10: 4856. https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104856

APA Style

Salawu, G., & Glen, B. (2026). Quantum Computing as a Disruptive Technology: Implications for Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 5.0. Applied Sciences, 16(10), 4856. https://doi.org/10.3390/app16104856

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