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From Lab to Reality: Is the Graphene Revolution Finally Within Reach?

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ASince graphene was first synthesized at the University of Manchester in 2004, it has been recognized as a remarkable material—stronger than steel yet lighter than paper. Fast forward 20 years, and not all UK graphene enterprises have been able to harness its full capabilities. Some view the future with optimism, while others face significant challenges.

Derived from graphite, the same substance used in pencils, graphene consists of a lattice-like sheet of carbon just one atom thick, boasting impressive conductivity for both heat and electricity. Presently, China is the leading global producer, leveraging this to secure an edge in the race for microchip production and construction applications.

In the UK, graphene-enhanced low-carbon concrete, developed by the Graphene Engineering Innovation Center (GEIC) at the University of Manchester in collaboration with Cemex UK, was recently installed at Northumbrian Waters in July.

“The material had an overwhelming amount of hype as it came out of academia… the real challenge lies in transitioning it from the lab to actual production,” explains Ben Jensen, CEO of 2D Photonics, a startup that originated from the University of Cambridge, specializing in graphene-based photonics technology for data centers.

Jensen was also behind the invention of Vantablack, a coating made from carbon nanotubes (rolled graphene sheets) renowned as the “blackest black” due to its ability to absorb 99.96% of light. He founded Surrey Nanosystems in 2007, where he sold exclusive artistic rights to sculptor Anish Kapoor, who featured the material on the X6 Coupe to achieve the “blackest black” effect six years ago.

Anish Kapoor’s untitled Vantablack piece was displayed in Venice in 2022. Photo: David Levin/The Guardian

“Shifting to new materials to replace existing technologies presents a significant challenge,” Jensen states. “The value proposition must be compelling, while also ensuring that the material can be manufactured efficiently at scale and priced competitively, otherwise, there’s little point in offering something ten times more costly than existing products.”

German company Bayer attempted to produce large quantities of carbon nanotube items but shuttered its pilot plant over a decade ago when a surge in demand failed to materialize. Currently, this material finds its primary use as a filler to enhance the strength of plastic products. Bayer has referred to the potential applications for nanotubes as “fragmentary.”

More promising is a graphene-based optical microchip created by CamGraPhIC, a branch of 2D Photonics, stemming from research at the University of Cambridge and CNIT in Italy.

Silicon photonics microchips currently translate electrical data into optical signals for transmission through fiber optic cables. The company claims its graphene-based chips can transmit more data in less time and at significantly lower costs.

Graphene single crystal. Photo: 2D Photonics

These chips consume 80% less energy and are capable of functioning across a broader temperature range, minimizing the requirement for costly water and energy-intensive cooling systems in AI data centers.

Transmitting data through silicon often leads to delays. Jensen compares this issue to a 16-lane highway unexpectedly narrowing down to one lane due to construction, slowing down traffic significantly. He argues that graphene photonics functions like an expansive highway with hundreds of lanes.

“Our breakthrough lies in the capability to cultivate stable, ultra-high performance graphene and effectively integrate it into devices,” he asserts. “Keep in mind, this material is only one atom thick, which makes the process particularly challenging.”

Ben Jensen, CEO of 2D Photonics. Photo: Ermanno Fissole

CamGraPhIC was established in 2018 by Professor Andrea Ferrari, a Cambridge Nanotechnology professor, who also heads the Cambridge Graphene Center, alongside Marco Romagnoli, head of advanced photonics at CNIT in Pisa and the startup’s chief scientific officer.

The parent company, 2D Photonics, recently acquired £25m in funding from a diverse group of investors, including Italy’s sovereign wealth fund, NATO, the Sony Innovation Fund, Bosch Ventures, and the UK’s Frontier IP Group. The firm will be based in the former Pirelli photonics research facility in Pisa and aims to launch a pilot manufacturing site in the Milan region designed for large-scale production of 200mm wafers, confident in receiving an additional €317m (£276m) in funding by year-end.

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Aside from data centers, the company’s chips have potential uses in high-performance computing, 5G and 6G mobile systems, aviation technologies, autonomous vehicles, advanced digital radar, non-satellite space communications, and beyond.

Paragraph, a spin-out from Cambridge University located in the nearby village of Somersham, has thrived in the past decade with backing from the UK Treasury. The firm creates graphene-based electronic devices, including sensors designed for electric vehicles and biosensors for early disease detection and various applications in medicine and agriculture. Recently, they secured $55 million (£41 million) from a group of investors, including a sovereign wealth fund from the United Arab Emirates, which acquired a 12.8% share in Paragraph.

Graphene Innovations Manchester, a fledgling company started by Vivek Konchery in 2021, finalized a deal with Saudi Arabia in December for the first commercial production of graphene-enhanced carbon fiber. This material will be utilized in constructing roofs, facades, and light poles. Production has begun in Tabuk with local partners, with an expected output of 3,000 tons by 2026.

2D photonics cleanroom at the Pisa development facility. Photo: 2D Photonics

Conversely, other companies are facing harsher realities. One of the pioneering firms in this domain, Applied Graphene Materials, was launched in 2010 by Professor Carl Coleman, a spin-out from Durham University. It introduced various products, such as anti-corrosion primers and bike detail protection sprays, which became available in Halfords stores. However, the struggling company declared bankruptcy in 2023, resulting in its main operations being acquired by Canada’s Universal Matter.

Ron Mertens, the owner of Graphene-Info, remarked, “As is often true in the broader materials industry, the path to market can be lengthy. Many graphene producers and developers have yet to generate substantial revenue or profit.”

Versarian, located in Gloucestershire, expanded from a garage startup with support from the government agency Innovate UK. They developed graphene powder and other products for usage in sensors, low-carbon concrete, paints, electronic inks, textiles, and more, including running gear and prototype stealth technologies for the US military.

The AIM-listed firm sought to establish operations in Spain and South Korea, but encountered financial troubles, leading several subsidiaries to enter administration or voluntary liquidation in July. Versarian is now looking to sell off assets, such as its patent portfolio, and currently has enough funds to last only until the end of October.

Depending on the nature of the upcoming transactions, this may trigger a liquidation process for the company or a financial shelter. Their investment agreement with a Chinese partner collapsed after the British government intervened to block any technological collaboration, marking a somber potential finale for what was once a promising graphene venture.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Ethiopia’s Electric Vehicle Revolution: Leading the Charge in Global Development

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When Architect Hen Degareg Bekele, in his early 30s, purchased a Volkswagen electric vehicle this year, he felt a degree of skepticism. His hometown, Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, faced not only frequent blackouts but also doubts regarding the vehicle’s quality.

Four months later, Degareg is pleased with his choice. He no longer has to endure long waits at gas stations due to the chronic fuel shortages in Ethiopia.

“Even if I arrive early in the morning, I still have to wait two to three hours. Often, they run out of gas before my turn comes,” he explains. “Owning an EV saves time. I have no regrets.”

Architect Deghareg Bekele at an EV charging station in Addis Ababa. Photo: Fred Harter

Until recently, electric vehicles were nearly unheard of in Ethiopia. However, last year, it became the first nation to prohibit the import of combustion engine vehicles. Today, EVs can be seen frequently in the capital, with China’s BYD being the most prevalent brand. Despite its recent rise to become the world’s largest EV manufacturer, Western brands remain popular.

According to the Ministry of Transport, out of the country’s total of 1.5 million vehicles, around 115,000 are electric. The goal is to boost this number to 500,000 by 2030.

Ethiopia leans towards a shift to EVs, despite challenges. Close to half of the 126 million population lacks access to electricity, and only 20% have access at least 23 hours a day, with only a third connected to the grid. Frequent power outages hinder many factories from running efficiently.

These shortages are attributed to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which was completed earlier this month after 14 years of construction. With a maximum capacity of 5,150 megawatts, it aims to double Ethiopia’s current power generation, which is predominantly hydroelectric.

However, challenges persist, including the substantial costs involved in expanding electricity access to rural areas.

“Renewable energy has significant potential,” emphasizes Transport Minister Valeo Hassen, noting that the ban on fossil fuel vehicles aligns with Ethiopia’s green policies aimed at reducing urban pollution during peak hours.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam located on the Blue Nile River in Guba, northwest Ethiopia. Photo: Anadolu/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

The primary motivation, however, is economic. Ethiopia spends about $4.5 billion (£3.3 billion) annually on fuel imports, a considerable burden for a country struggling with foreign currency shortages and widespread poverty. “This is one of our main expenditures,” notes Bareo.

In contrast, the country’s hydroelectric production is notably cost-effective. This has allowed it to attract skeptical drivers in Addis Ababa, who have witnessed fuel prices more than double over the past three years.

Taxi driver Fire Tilahun reports his monthly fuel expenses were around 20,000 Ethiopian Birr (£105), while now, charging his EV costs less than 3,000 Birr.

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“I won’t go back,” he declares while charging at a new station in Addis Ababa. “Occasionally, there are power outages, but we manage.”

To further support EV adoption, Ethiopia implemented tax exemptions. Despite being expensive, in a nation where doctors average £60 monthly, the BYD model is priced at around 2.2 million Birr (£11,000). Meanwhile, combustion engine vehicles have skyrocketed in price due to 200% import taxes prior to the ban, distorting the used car market.

Efforts to foster local manufacturing are underway, albeit at a small scale. One notable site is managed by the Belayneh Kinde Group, an industrial conglomerate situated on the western outskirts of Addis Ababa.

An electric vehicle being assembled at a factory on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. Photo: Fred Harter

“We should not rely solely on imports,” Valeo states. “Our aim is to develop local production capacity to enhance skills and employment opportunities for our citizens.”

Yet, the sudden shift to EVs has been uneven. Drivers express concerns over insufficient preparation time. Currently, Ethiopia boasts just over 100 charging stations out of a target of 2,300, most of which are located in Addis Ababa. This limits road trips to rural areas that often experience more frequent blackouts, making it impractical for EVs beyond the capital.

Rema Wakugali recharging his electric vehicle, expressing the need for more charging stations. Photo: Fred Harter

At another charging station in Addis Ababa, Coffee Export Manager remarks that he is “genuinely satisfied” with his BYD, but wishes he could drive to Hawassa, a favored lakeside destination.

“They must construct more charging stations – it’s essential,” he insists. “There are too few in Addis. There are no electric vehicles operating outside the city. This car can travel 420km; what happens after that?”


Moreover, there are currently no plans to introduce electric versions of heavy trucks, which are vital for transporting most of Ethiopia’s imports from nearby Djibouti ports. As the fleet ages, the economic impact may be felt significantly.

The CEO of a prominent ride-hailing company in Addis Ababa reports that most of his drivers harbor doubts about the longevity of EV batteries and their resale value. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful that after his personal experience with an EV, the infrastructure will evolve to meet the growing demand.

“Initially, we believed this policy would fail due to inadequacies in power infrastructure, frequent blackouts, and a scarcity of charging stations,” he reflects.

“But now, I am cautiously optimistic.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Volcanic Eruptions Could Have Played a Role in Triggering the French Revolution

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Depiction of the uprising preceding the French Revolution

Stefano Bianchetti/Corbis via Getty Images

Intense volcanic eruptions along with alterations in solar activity may have triggered some of the most notable rebellions throughout history, including the French Revolution.

It has long been recognized that extreme environmental events like drought, deforestation, and temperature fluctuations can lead to societal upheavals, agricultural failures, and outbreaks of disease.

One of the most significant climate events in recent history, known as the Little Ice Age, affected the northern hemisphere—particularly Europe and North America—between 1250 and 1860.

David Kaniewski, from the University of Toulouse in France, along with his colleagues, examined historical records to identify 140 significant rebellions that occurred during this timeframe.

For their research, they cross-referenced records of social unrest with data on solar activity, volcanic eruptions, and climatic shifts. They aimed to uncover any connections between these factors and the extreme weather phenomena associated with the Little Ice Age, particularly in relation to grain and bread prices.

“We observed spikes of unrest that align with environmental changes and the challenges they impose on society,” Kaniewski stated.

The research team found that the coldest periods during the Little Ice Age coincided with a noticeable rise in the frequency of rebellions.

“Major volcanic eruptions that temporarily lowered temperatures led to statistically significant levels of social unrest,” Kaniewski remarked. “Furthermore, sunspot records, which track solar activity, showed that lower sunspot counts associated with cooler temperatures correlated with increased uprisings.”

During temperature declines of between 0.6°C and 0.7°C, whether from volcanic activity or reduced solar spots, there was an average of 0.72 rebellions per year, mirroring a reduction in rainfall.

However, the most significant correlation was found between rebellion frequency and the prices of wheat and barley, with sudden price increases resulting in 1.16 additional rebellions per year.

Kaniewski asserts that when harvests fail, hunger escalates, prices soar, and social unrest is likely to follow. Nevertheless, the research also indicated that some nations, such as England, which also faced weather patterns during this period, managed to adapt more effectively than others.

Researchers propose that while climate does not directly incite rebellion, it sets off a chain of events that can lead to food shortages and rising grain prices, which in turn motivate people to resist authorities.

“Food scarcity is akin to a dry forest after a prolonged drought,” Kaniewski explained. “A political or social grievance can spark rebellion.”

Following the eruption of the Laki Volcano in Iceland in June 1783, which raised sulfur dioxide levels in the atmosphere, a significant climate cooling occurred. The research revealed that from 1788 to 1798, the frequency of rebellions reached an average of 1.4 per year, including events leading up to the French Revolution.

Kaniewski emphasizes that understanding the Little Ice Age can offer insights into the challenges humanity faces in predicting future climatic changes. “Today’s climate change may prove to be much more devastating.”

Tim Flannery from the Australian Museum in Sydney remarked that, as illustrated by the study, the link between climate change, rebellion, and revolution reflects correlation rather than causation.

“People can descend into chaos during times of stress, leading to migration, suicide, and other behaviors, including rebellion,” Flannery noted. “While I’m not dismissing the findings, I believe we require a deeper analysis for more progress beyond our previous understandings.”

Jeremy Moss from the University of New South Wales in Sydney highlighted that the direct impacts are only one aspect of the issue, given the vulnerabilities experienced by people and natural systems due to climate change. “Often, it is equally critical to consider how both individuals and natural systems are made vulnerable and how we respond to those vulnerabilities,” Moss stated.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Is Africa on the Verge of a Solar Energy Revolution?

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Explosive growth of solar energy and panels in Niamey, Niger

Boureima Hama/AFP via Getty Images

A remarkable increase in solar panel shipments from China to African nations over the past year suggests a significant boost in the continent’s renewable energy infrastructure. This growth facilitates broader access to affordable and clean electricity while decreasing the dependency on imported fossil fuels.

“We’re not witnessing a huge explosion yet,” says Dave Jones from Ember, a UK energy think tank. “This marks the beginning of momentum.”

Jones and his team examined export data for Chinese solar panels from 2017 to the present. Although Africa possesses the infrastructure for solar panel manufacturing, it remains reliant on Chinese imports for nearly all its needs.

From June 2024 to 2025, exports to Africa soared by 60%, surpassing the 15 gigawatts of electricity imported during this timeframe.

This recent surge differs from earlier increases in 2022 and 2023, which were mainly concentrated in South Africa; now, the growth is evident across the continent. Twenty nations report import records, and 25 nations import solar panels totaling 100 megawatts. “It’s not driven by one or two countries,” notes Jones, “which I find incredibly encouraging.”

While South Africa continues to lead, accounting for about a quarter of total imports, several other nations significantly increased their acquisitions. Nigeria ranks second with 1,721 megawatts, followed by Algeria, which imported 1,199 megawatts in total. In the last two years, imports of solar panels from China to African countries (excluding South Africa) have more than tripled.

If all panels imported in the past year have been installed, it’s estimated that 16 countries could meet at least 5% of their current electricity needs. Sierra Leone could potentially generate over 60% of its existing power from solar energy. This shift towards solar energy could also mitigate reliance on costly fossil fuel imports.

“The transition towards a just-energy Africa is no longer a distant goal; it is happening right now,” asserts Amos Wemanya, of Power Shift Africa, a Kenyan energy think tank. “This transition holds the promise to significantly enhance our resilience against climate disruptions and foster development.”

This surge can be attributed partly to substantial solar power projects in development; however, that isn’t the full story. Jones emphasizes that many imports are destined for small, distributed installations, such as rooftops and farms, as users seek more affordable and reliable alternatives to national grid power. A similar pattern has emerged in Pakistan, where rooftop solar has seen explosive growth in recent years, driven by falling panel prices.

While this trend is promising, around 600 million people in Africa—almost half the continent’s population—lack dependable electricity access. Nonetheless, the development of solar energy in Africa still lags behind other global regions. Many African countries struggle to secure investments in renewable energy, representing only 2% of global investments over the last few decades. Interestingly, over the past year, Pakistan has imported more solar panels than all of Africa combined, despite having only one-sixth of Africa’s population.

“Our key challenge is to transform this momentum into sustainable benefits by amending funding, policies, and local industries to ensure that clean energy is not only accessible but also reliable, affordable, and inclusive for all Africans,” concludes Wemanya.

Egypt: Scientific Pioneers of the Ancient World – Cairo and Alexandria

Embark on a remarkable journey through Cairo and Alexandria, Egypt’s two iconic cities where ancient history meets modern vibrance.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Zuckerberg: The Face of Meta’s AI Revolution

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Meta has dedicated months to enhancing its artificial intelligence capabilities, whether that involves attracting top talent from competitors, acquiring an AI startup, or planning to construct a data center the size of Manhattan.

Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, asserts that this significant investment is yielding results. In a new Note shared on Wednesday before the quarterly revenue report, he outlines his vision for what he refers to as “super intelligence.”

Zuckerberg notes, “In recent months, we have begun to reveal glimpses of AI systems enhancing our capabilities. Though the improvements are gradual, they are undeniable. We are now on the path towards ultra-intelligence.”

Wall Street investors are responding positively to Zuckerberg’s bold strategy, with stocks climbing by double digits following the company’s unexpectedly strong financial results for the quarter.

While Zuckerberg did not elaborate on the differences between “Superintelligence” and standard artificial intelligence, he acknowledged that it introduces “new safety concerns.”

He emphasized the need for stringent measures to mitigate these risks and to be cautious with what is made open source.

Zuckerberg contends that Meta distinguishes itself from other AI firms, aiming to “bring something personal and intimate to everyone.” He notes that other companies primarily leverage “super intelligence” for productivity, focusing on the automation of “all valuable jobs.”

He remarks, “The remainder of this decade is pivotal in determining whether superintelligence serves as a tool for personal empowerment or a force aimed at replacing large segments of society.”

Investors are curious: Does AI signify cash flow?

Investors are searching for indicators that Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, is spending its billions wisely. The social media giant reported second-quarter earnings that exceeded market expectations, with stocks gaining 10% after the closing of the New York Stock Exchange. Analysts predict META will need to address whether the revenue generated will offset the substantial capital expenditures related to recruitment and infrastructure.

Minda Smiley, a senior analyst at Emarketer, stated, “AI-led investments in Meta’s advertising division are likely to continue yielding returns and enhancing revenues as the company invests billions into its AI ambitions like super intelligence.” However, she cautioned that Meta’s significant spending on AI initiatives will persistently invite questions from investors eager for tangible returns.

Meta reported earnings per share (EPS) of $7.14, with total earnings at $475.2 billion, marking the latest in a series of quarterly successes that surpassed Wall Street’s financial forecasts despite substantial AI investments.

The company also projected revenues between $47.5 billion and $50.5 billion for the third quarter of 2025.

Zuckerberg provided minimal specifics in the notes; however, one clear takeaway is that Meta recorded a 12% rise in total expenses for the second quarter of 2025, reaching $270.7 billion. Capital expenditures for this period amounted to $170.1 billion.

Meta outlined its anticipated spending for upcoming months, budgeting between $114 billion and $118 billion in total costs for 2025. From this, the company expects capital expenditures to fall between $660 billion and $720 billion, revising its earlier forecast of $640 billion to $720 billion, which was increased from $600 billion to $65 billion.

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Looking ahead to 2026, Meta anticipates that total costs for that year will surpass those of 2025.

According to the company, “The primary drivers of growth will be the rapid expansion of infrastructure and the associated costs of increased operational capabilities as we broaden our infrastructure assets.” Additionally, employee compensation is expected to be the second-largest growth factor as Meta recruits technical talent for its priority areas and acknowledges the one-year compensation for employees throughout 2025.

Meta is forming a new Superintelligence Labs team, recruiting talent from competing AI firms. Initially, they invested $14.3 billion in Scale AI for a 49% stake, appointing startup CEO Alexandr Wang as the chief AI officer. Reports indicate that Meta has successfully attracted engineers and other personnel from various startups, offering lucrative reward packages, including one reported to exceed $200 million for at least one hire from Apple or GitHub (according to Bloomberg).

Mike Pulx, director of research at Forester, stated, “To excel in the super intelligence race, it’s essential to recruit the best talent, and Meta is making significant efforts to attract leading AI professionals.” He added, “They’re leveraging their substantial financial resources to invest in data centers and support AI initiatives, while also providing attractive packages to pull in top talent from competitors.”

Reality Lab continues to generate revenue, contributing $370 million in the second quarter, but Zuckerberg maintains a vibrant outlook on AI glasses. He likens wearing AI glasses to using contact lenses, suggesting that without them, one faces a cognitive disadvantage.

He mentioned, “Personally, I believe that not having AI-enabled glasses puts you at a cognitive disadvantage. It’s akin to being in the forefront of evolving life sciences.”

The company’s primary revenue source, advertising, remains on an upward trajectory. Meta recorded $46.6 billion in advertising revenue for the second quarter, significantly up from $38.3 billion in the previous year’s quarter. Susan Li, Meta’s CFO, noted in a call with investors that she does not anticipate WhatsApp, a new advertising channel, becoming a “meaningful contributor” to growth in the coming years.

Li added, “We expect that ads on WhatsApp and Status will garner lower average prices than Facebook or Instagram ads due to challenges in the WhatsApp monetization market and limited targeting information.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

A breeding revolution 4,200 years ago shaped the origins of the modern horse.

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Horse domestication began on the Eurasian steppes

Lina Shatalova/iStockphoto/Getty Images

A genetic study of hundreds of ancient horses suggests that ancient breeders dramatically shortened the horse’s natural development period, starting around 4,200 years ago. This intense breeding allowed the lineage to rapidly expand across Eurasia within a few centuries, according to researchers led by Ludovic Orlando at the Centre for Human Biology and Genomics in Toulouse, France.

“In other words, they controlled horse breeding,” he says, “so this tells us something about the breeding processes behind the success of horse breeding around the world.”

Horses were first domesticated 5,500 years ago by the Botai people in what is now Kazakhstan. The Botai, however, did not spread their horse culture to other regions and eventually went extinct. Horses released back into the wild.

More than 1,000 years later, a different lineage of horse was domesticated in the Pontic-Caspian steppes of southern Russia. This lineage eventually spread worldwide, giving rise to all the domesticated horses we see today, according to Orlando.

To trace the history of horse domestication, Orlando and his team analyzed the genomes of 475 ancient horses dating back 50,000 years in Eurasia. They compared these genomes with those of 71 modern domestic horses representing 40 breeds from around the world, along with six species of the endangered mullein genus (a separate subspecies).

The research found that, except for the Botai, horses were not domesticated before the third millennium BCE, indicating that horses did not play a significant role in early human migration or cultural expansion, as previously suggested, Orlando explained.

DNA analysis showed that horses in the Pontic-Caspian steppe underwent significant inbreeding around 4,200 years ago, likely in an effort to develop specific traits for high-quality riding or chariot horses, according to Orlando.

Through a combination of genome sequencing and carbon dating, scientists estimated that the average time between two successive horse generations, called the generation time interval, was significantly shortened during the same period of inbreeding in the Pontic-Caspian steppes, halving the interval seen in the wild.

“During the domestication bottleneck around 2200 BCE, breeders were able to control horse reproduction so well that generations became faster and faster,” Orlando said.

Orlando suggests that breeders may have achieved this shortening of generation times not by breeding horses at a younger age, but by increasing survival rates. Unlike wild horses, horses in human care are less susceptible to deaths among mares and newborn foals, as they are protected from predators and disturbances that could jeopardize their survival, according to researchers at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna led by Kristin Orlich.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Artificial Intelligence will bring about a revolution in the realm of complex problem-solving within logistics and beyond.

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Researchers at MIT and ETH Zurich have developed a machine learning-based technique that speeds up the optimization process used by companies like FedEx to deliver packages. This approach simplifies key steps in mixed integer linear programming (MILP) solvers and uses company-specific data to tune the process, resulting in 30-70% speedups without sacrificing accuracy. This has potential applications in a variety of industries facing complex resource allocation problems.

The research conducted by Massachusetts Institute of Technology and ETH Zurich aims to address complex logistics challenges, including delivering packages, distributing vaccines, and managing power grids. The traditional software used by companies like FedEx to find optimal delivery solutions is called a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) solver, but it can be time-consuming and may not always produce ideal solutions.

The newly developed technique employs machine learning to identify important intermediate steps in the MILP solver, resulting in a significant reduction of time required to unravel potential solutions. By using company-specific data, this approach allows for custom tailoring of the MILP solver. This new technique results in speeding up the MILP solver by 30-70% without sacrificing accuracy.

Lead author Kathy Wu, along with co-lead authors Sirui Li, Wenbin Ouyang, and Max Paulus, highlights the potential of combining machine learning and classical methods to address optimization problems. The research will be presented at the Neural Information Processing Systems Conference. The team hopes to further apply this approach to solve complex MILP problems and interpret the effectiveness of different separation algorithms.

Source: scitechdaily.com