MIT researchers develop system for evaluating scale-up potential of quantum materials

MIT researchers have developed a framework for evaluating the scale-up potential of quantum materials. The system integrates assessments of quantum behavior with factors including cost, supply chain resilience, and environmental footprint. Researchers applied the framework to more than 16,000 topological materials. They assigned scores based on environmental impact, price, import resilience, and related criteria. The approach also incorporated an AI model to quantify quantum weight, a measure of a material's quantum properties. The study found a strong correlation between higher quantum weight and greater expense or environmental damage. Researchers identified 200 environmentally sustainable materials and narrowed the list to 31 candidates that balance quantum functionality with sustainability. The paper was published in Materials Today. Senior Several co-