AI Chemist Predicts Organic Reaction Outcomes

Dec. 13, 2017
IBM develops machine learning tool that predicts products of organic reactions.

A new artificial intelligence (AI) tool developed by IBM researchers predicts the products of organic reactions correctly about 80% of the time even without being taught any chemistry rules, according to an article from Chemistry World.  The machine learning program is reportedly modelled on systems that treat chemistry like language, such as Google’s artificial neural network.

Researchers have been trying to create a functioning AI chemist since the 1970s, according to the article. In the latest effort, IBM focused on giving their program more than 50,000 reactions to train on rather than teaching it chemistry rules. This approach to learning organic chemistry, according to one of the researchers cited, centers around trying to find the underlying patterns in reactions and rationalizing them. The IBM program reportedly outperformed a comparable prediction program created by MIT.

Read the entire article here.

Sponsored Recommendations

Keys to Improving Safety in Chemical Processes (PDF)

Many facilities handle dangerous processes and products on a daily basis. Keeping everything under control demands well-trained people working with the best equipment.

Get Hands-On Training in Emerson's Interactive Plant Environment

Enhance the training experience and increase retention by training hands-on in Emerson's Interactive Plant Environment. Build skills here so you have them where and when it matters...

Managing and Reducing Methane Emission in Upstream Oil & Gas

Measurement Instrumentation for reducing emissions, improving efficiency and ensuring safety.

Micro Motion 4700 Coriolis Configurable Inputs and Outputs Transmitter

The Micro Motion 4700 Coriolis Transmitter offers a compact C1D1 (Zone 1) housing. Bluetooth and Smart Meter Verification are available.