Science Park start-up raises $30 million to tackle climate change

26.06.24

Start-up CuspAI has raised $30 million to develop AI-driven materials for efficient CO2 capture. The company aims to use AI to create materials that can effectively capture and store CO2 from the atmosphere or chimneys. CuspAI was founded by Max Welling and British chemist Chad Edwards. Max Welling is Professor of Machine Learning at the University of Amsterdam, based at LAB42.

Capturing and storing CO2 is a nascent but crucial industry. The process requires materials that can "breathe," attaching and releasing CO2 at specific pressures and temperatures. This process is energy-intensive, but Welling believes AI can significantly improve efficiency.

CuspAI plans to build a data-driven platform to optimise these materials using generative AI. Their research department will be based at Amsterdam Science Park. Starting with a team of 12 to 15 people, growing to 40 within the next few years. 

Geoffrey Hinton, a prominent AI researcher, will advise the company. He left Google due to concerns about the dangers of AI developed by large tech firms. Welling and Hinton intend to use their AI expertise to address climate change, also aiding hydrogen and battery production.

➡️ Follow CuspAI on LinkedIn.