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AFION self-driving lab

Idea Proposed

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The AFION self-driving lab is an automated system that integrates:

  • Microfluidic reactors (for precise chemical reactions)
  • In-flow spectroscopic nanoparticle characterization (to analyze results in real time)
  • Machine learning algorithms (to optimize synthesis conditions)

This system enables on-demand synthesis of various plasmonic nanoparticles without human intervention.

How does it work?

  1. Automated Synthesis

    • Uses microfluidic reactors to control reagent flow and mixing.
    • Conducts photochemical reactions to synthesize nanoparticles.

  2. Real-time Analysis

    • Uses spectroscopy to measure nanoparticle properties (size, shape, and optical behavior).
    • Data is continuously collected and analyzed.

  3. Machine Learning Optimization

    • An ML algorithm (Gryffin) predicts the best reaction conditions.
    • The system runs experiments in a closed-loop cycle, learning from each result and improving synthesis conditions over time.

How can we benefit from this?

  • Faster Nanoparticle Development

    • Instead of manual trial-and-error, this system autonomously finds optimal reaction conditions, reducing time and effort.

  • Higher Precision and Consistency

    • Produces nanoparticles with highly controlled properties, which is crucial for applications in sensors, drug delivery, imaging, and photovoltaics.

  • Cost-Effective and Scalable

    • Uses fewer materials and automates synthesis, making nanoparticle production more efficient and scalable.

  • Exploration of New Nanomaterials

    • Can discover and optimize new types of nanoparticles, leading to advancements in nanotechnology and materials science.

Implementation

Implementation of this can be found here: Wu, T., Kheiri, S., Hickman, R.J. et al. Self-driving lab for the photochemical synthesis of plasmonic nanoparticles with targeted structural and optical properties. Nat Commun 16, 1473 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-56788-9

Sources & citation

Wu, T., Kheiri, S., Hickman, R.J. et al. Self-driving lab for the photochemical synthesis of plasmonic nanoparticles with targeted structural and optical properties. Nat Commun 16, 1473 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-56788-9