AI-based tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini or DeepSeek are radically changing the way we generate and access information. These systems are not specialized and are only generalists.
But increasingly, scientists are training AI systems to solve very specific issues and speed up everything from developing new drugs through to design fusion reactors. They’re gaining ground in the area of enhanced material discovery. Their innovations are generating a growing number of promising startups. PhaseTree, for example, is one of these startups.
PhaseTree, a spin-off of the Technical University of Denmark, was founded in 2021. It has developed a platform which integrates computer simulations with lab automation and AI for developing new materials for clean technology like batteries, wind turbines, and solar panels. The startup isn’t revealing its secret sauce but says the technology allows it to find new materials ten times faster than conventional methods.
“Our method accelerates discovery through combining physics-based modeling with AI. This allows us to quickly identify and refine promising candidate that would normally take decades to develop,” Jin Hyun Chang is the co-founder and chief technology officer of PhaseTree.
PhaseTree operates in a sector that is becoming increasingly crowded. According to Dealroom data, AI-powered material exploration startups raised more than $260mn in 2018. Ten of the 17 funding round in 2024 were awarded to startups in Europe including ExoMatter Dunia and Orbital.
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A story from our wise old founder Boris and some questionable AI artwork. Every week, it’s in your inbox for free. Sign up today! PhaseTree takes a different approach than its competitors. Chang said that unlike many other AI powered material discovery tools, the startup prioritizes using existing scientific methods before applying machine learning. This approach is called “physics-first, AI on top.”
He explained, “Many AI driven tools rely heavily upon data correlations but we emphasise physical principles governing materials, such as composition, microstructures, defects, etc., to ensure a accurate prediction of materials properties.” PhaseTree announced today that it has received EUR3mn from Denmark’s early-stage VC Heartcore Capital. The funds will be used to expand the team and boost R&D, in order to apply its science to real-world problems. Amit Luthra is the co-founder and CEO at PhaseTree. He stressed that the company’s focus is on practical applications.
Luthra said, “We design materials with manufacturing in mind. We ensure they can be synthesised on a large scale, rather than remain a theoretical concept or laboratory-scale prototypes.” By prioritising low cost, abundant materials that are easy to synthesize, we maximize the likelihood of industrial players adopting them.
PhaseTree has said that it is working with some of world’s biggest battery, automobile and steel producers and is already optimizing high-performance alloys and battery electrodes. The TNW Conferencewill take place in Amsterdam on June 19-20. One of the three main themes is “The Next in Tech”. Tickets for the event are now on sale. Use the code TNWXMEDIA2025 to get 30% off.
