Artificial intelligence (AI) may capture the properties and functions of materials better than previous theoretical/computational methods because it targets correlations and does not assume a single, specific underlying physical model. Therefore, it addresses the full intricacy of the numerous processes that govern the function of materials. However, the statistical analysis and interpretation of AI models require careful attention.
The review article started with a brief discussion of historical aspects of data-centric science. It then focused on the recently developed, explainable AI methods [8,10] and applications [2,11,12]. The identified "rules" determine the properties and functions of materials. The rules depend on descriptive parameters called "materials genes." As genes in biology, they are correlated with a certain material property or function. Thus, these materials genes help to identify materials that are, for example, better electrical conductors or better heat insulators or better catalysts.
This project was done together with T.A.R. Purcell, L. Foppa, M. Boley and several others. It was supported by the ERC Advanced Grant TEC1p (European Research Council, Grant Agreement No. 740233).
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