AI and Lignin – A Successful Combo

Publicerat 26 February, 2025

Have you ever wondered how artificial intelligence (AI) can contribute to the bioeconomy and the development of new materials essential for a circular economy and a more sustainable society? This question is a key focus for Jerk Rönnols, researcher at RISE, who explores how AI can revolutionize the use of lignin and other bio-based materials.

Jerk works at the Center for Applied AI, a broad and comprehensive initiative that brings together all of RISE’s work in artificial intelligence, from research and innovation to applications in technology, industry, and societal development.
Jerk believes that AI has many potential applications in the bioeconomy.
– One area where RISE use AI for bioeconomy and materials is characterization. With the help of AI, we can automate and accelerate the interpretation of investigations conducted using the advanced analytical techniques NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) and SAXS (Small-Angle X-ray Scattering). These techniques are used to study materials at the nanoscale and biomolecules at the molecular scale. We are also working with AI in combination with process optimization and experimental design, says Jerk.

In the two latter cases, Jerk explains, it is about handling data from processes and experimental parameters. Here, AI can help navigate the complex matrices.
– If we are talking specifically about lignin and AI, there are many possibilities. AI can be used to quickly find patterns in multidimensional matrices where human conventional intelligence sometimes struggles to reach. The molecular structure of lignin is a complex and ongoing research question – perhaps we can make progress there? says Jerk.
He also believes that AI can be used in many process-related issues:
– What if we, with the help of smart measurements and modern data processing, can take LignoCity to new heights and guide customers toward better processes? We also have a material development project underway where we will use AI and robotic processes to create elastic materials from lignin, says Jerk.