Polaron, a spin-out from Imperial College London, has developed a groundbreaking AI solution that reduces the time needed to create advanced materials—from years to mere days.
This innovation could transform the production of materials used in wind turbines, electric vehicle batteries, and infrastructure, supporting the UK’s push for economic growth and net-zero targets.
Polaron’s AI technology analyses microstructural images—microscopic features of a material visible under a microscope—to rapidly predict how materials will perform. By enabling manufacturers to develop stronger, lighter, and more efficient materials, the breakthrough has the potential to accelerate clean energy and transport innovation while cutting costs and boosting sustainability.
Announcing Polaron as the winner, Secretary of State Peter Kyle said: “Polaron exemplifies the promise of AI and shows how, through our Plan for Change, we are putting AI innovation at the forefront.
“AI could generate £400 billion for our economy over the next five years, and supporting trailblazing companies like Polaron is essential to achieving that vision.
“Technologies like these will help us meet our net zero targets while creating new jobs and opportunities for working people. Our commitment is clear—we are fully embracing AI to drive growth, improve public services, and position the UK as a global leader in AI innovation.”
The Manchester Prize was launched in December 2023 by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, in partnership with Challenge Works. It recognises AI solutions addressing major societal challenges, with the first round focused on energy, environment, and infrastructure. Nearly 300 teams competed for the award, with ten finalists each receiving £100,000 and development support before Polaron was chosen as the overall winner.
Polaron’s success aligns with the government’s new AI blueprint, which aims to harness artificial intelligence to drive a “decade of national renewal.” Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds highlighted the importance of fostering innovation through targeted investment.
“Our Plan for Change will deliver economic growth, and for that to succeed we need to support companies such as Polaron in developing the cutting-edge materials of the future, backed by our Industrial Strategy,” Reynolds said.
“This Government is determined to embrace every opportunity that AI presents—not only to help British companies develop world-leading products but also to open up new export opportunities.”
To accelerate the adoption of game-changing technologies, the government has introduced the Regulatory Innovation Office, designed to remove bureaucratic obstacles for businesses bringing new products to market. By streamlining regulatory processes, speeding up approvals, and ensuring better coordination between regulators, the initiative aims to “bulldoze barriers to innovation” and fuel economic growth.
Following the success of the first round, the Manchester Prize has now launched its second phase, focused on AI for Clean Energy Systems. The ten finalists set to receive £100,000 will be announced this spring, with the final winner securing a further £1 million to support their innovation.
As AI continues to reshape industries, breakthroughs like Polaron’s highlight the potential of British innovation to drive technological advancements with global impact.
