AI-powered robotic laboratory paves the way for discovering next-generation heat-resistant coatings
Researchers have developed a self-driving laboratory that combines artificial intelligence and robotics to automate laboratory tasks, from accurately measuring and mixing chemical ingredients to high-temperature furnace processing and sample retrieval.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed an AI-powered robotic laboratory that streamlines the process of discovering advanced materials for high-temperature applications. Combining artificial intelligence and robotics, the self-driving system automates tasks such as measuring and mixing chemical ingredients, processing samples in high-temperature furnaces, and retrieving results.
Traditionally, developing new materials for extreme environments requires numerous experiments, which are time-consuming and involve multiple steps. This new system integrates these tasks into a coordinated automated workflow, guided by active learning—an AI approach that uses previous experiment data to identify promising material compositions.
The researchers used this method to develop and test several candidate materials with a specific crystal structure, known as pyrochlore, for potential use as thermal barrier coatings. Thermal barrier coatings shield engine parts from intense heat, and discovering low-thermal-conductivity materials is crucial for improving their effectiveness.
The researchers overcame technical challenges by integrating different stages of the process into a single, reliable workflow. Their findings, published in Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence and ChemRxiv, demonstrate a practical approach to integrating robotics, laboratory equipment, and AI-guided materials discovery, paving the way for more autonomous and reproducible materials research.
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