London-based startup Orbital Materials is leveraging generative AI technology to accelerate the development of clean energy technologies. By utilizing AI models capable of identifying optimal formulas for sustainable products like jet fuel and rare-earth mineral-free batteries, the company aims to make material discovery as accessible and effective as modeling designs for other industries.

The deployment of AI in the search for greener materials has gained traction in recent years. However, many materials crucial for decarbonization still lack adequate technological solutions. With the urgency to rapidly reduce emissions and achieve net-zero targets, the traditional timeline of decades from discovery to market is far too slow.

Orbital Materials, founded by former DeepMind researcher Jonathan Godwin, believes AI can be the catalyst for change. Inspired by the success of AI tools like AlphaFold, which accelerates the search for new drugs and vaccines, Godwin envisions AI systems capable of revolutionizing the material world.

Orbital Materials plans to train AI models using extensive data on the molecular structure of materials. By inputting desired properties and material specifications, such as an alloy with high heat resistance, the model generates proposed molecular formulas. This approach combines the ability to imagine new molecules with the capacity to assess their functionality in real-world applications.

Investors, particularly in Europe where carbon emission regulations are stringent, are actively seeking companies that improve green material production. Advanced materials markets in sectors like renewable energy, transportation, and agriculture are projected to grow significantly. Some research institutions and startups have even implemented AI-driven systems to expedite material discovery processes.

Orbital Materials, backed by $4.8 million in initial funding, plans to focus initially on carbon capture. The startup aims to develop an algorithmic model for designing molecular sieves, enabling more efficient removal of CO2 and other harmful chemicals from emissions. Although carbon capture has faced challenges at scale, government incentives, especially in the US, have heightened interest in adopting the technology.

Eventually, Orbital Materials intends to expand into areas such as fuel and batteries, adopting a business model similar to synthetic biology and drug discovery companies. The plan is to develop the necessary expertise and then license the software or novel materials to manufacturers.

While getting AI algorithms right is crucial, the startup faces additional challenges in collaborating with established enterprises and navigating complex supply chains. Manufacturing advanced materials in industries like battery and fuel production can be more challenging and costly than developing new drugs.

Despite the risks, investors recognize the trillion-dollar potential of markets like batteries and carbon capture and are willing to support companies like Orbital Materials. The advancement in computing power and increased understanding of AI applications make it easier to convey the potential benefits of AI in material science.

Orbital Materials is poised to make a significant impact in the field, building on the lessons learned from previous ventures. With improved computing capabilities and a receptive market, the startup aims to replicate the success of AI applications in chemistry demonstrated by tools like ChatGPT.