Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) is the quantum field theory describing the strong interaction, yet key aspects of its non-perturbative regime -- such as hadronization and the dynamics of multi-quark systems -- remain challenging to constrain. At the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), ALICE plays a central role in addressing these challenges, thanks to its ability to study particle production down to very low momenta -- where non-perturbative QCD dominates -- and across a wide range of collision environments, from low to very high charged-particle multiplicities.
In this talk, I will present three ALICE measurements that contribute to our understanding of QCD. The first consists of high-precision mass measurements of multi-strange baryons (Xi-[dss] and Omega-[sss]), which provide crucial input for lattice QCD calculations. The second and third are on-going studies on the hadronisation of strange and charm quarks, which provide new constraints on theoretical predictions and offer valuable insights into hadronization models. Finally, I will conclude with a discussion on future prospects, including upcoming measurements and opportunities to further refine our understanding of the strong interaction with ALICE.
