Accelerating Materials Development with Quantum Computing

March 27, 2025

Simon Fried

Quantum computing will play a pivotal role in driving innovation, enhancing product quality and promoting sustainability in the automotive manufacturing industry. (Classiq)

As most engineers pursue ways to improve material properties such as longevity, corrosion resistance and eco-friendliness, quantum computing is emerging as a groundbreaking technology to accelerate new material development.

Volkswagen said in 2021 that researchers believed quantum computing has the potential to open new areas of exploration. The work continues. (VW)

The automotive engineering industry relies heavily on materials, from the metals used in components and structural parts to the polymers in casings and specialty chemicals like paints and coatings that finish products. The performance and longevity of these materials directly influence the final machines' quality and sustainability. Imagine paints that adhere better or last longer, metals that resist corrosion more effectively, or batteries that store more energy and charge faster. These are not-so-distant realities with quantum computing.

Quantum computing operates on the principles of quantum mechanics, offering new computational capabilities beyond the scope of classical computers today. These new capabilities include enhanced molecular simulation which is critical for simulating complex chemical processes and which poses a significant challenge for traditional computational methods. For materials science, this means we’re on the cusp of the ability to innovate and develop materials at a much faster pace.

Because of this, one of the areas where quantum computing is expected to make a significant and immediate impact is the development of new materials, including green products and solutions that reduce environmental impact. For instance, the design of polymers that minimize the probability of causing microplastic pollution could assist the industry's approach to sustainability. Similarly, developing metals less prone to corrosion would enhance the durability and lifespan of vehicles, reducing waste and the need for frequent replacements.

Paint chemistry is another area suitable for innovation with quantum computing. By understanding the quantum mechanical interactions at play, researchers can develop formulations that last longer and offer improved adhesion, resistance to environmental damage and lower toxicity. These advancements would improve product aesthetics and durability and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Quantum computing operates on the principles of quantum mechanics, offering new computational capabilities beyond the scope of classical computers today. Shown: example code of Shor’s algorithm in QMOD. (Classiq)

Another example of quantum computing's potential in materials development is in the development of better energy storage through advanced battery chemistry. Enhanced battery technologies would directly impact electric vehicles, opening new possibilities for energy integration and efficiency. For instance, Volkswagen Group is using quantum computing to simulate and optimize battery materials, and BMW Group is using the technology to find the optimal architecture of electrical and mechanical systems (Classiq is collaborating with BMW).

It's essential, however, to acknowledge that the transition to quantum-enhanced materials is long. Quantum computing is an emerging field, with materials science expected to be among the first to benefit from its advancements. For automotive engineers and manufacturers, this brings promising future choices and opportunities for innovation.

In preparing for this quantum leap, automotive engineers must be informed and ready for the changes ahead. The growth of new material options powered by quantum computing will affect manufacturing processes and open new avenues for product differentiation and value creation.

Quantum computing promises to be a game-changer for materials development. By enabling the creation of materials with superior properties and environmental benefits, quantum computing will play a pivotal role in driving innovation, enhancing product quality and promoting sustainability in the automotive manufacturing industry. The future of materials science is quantum, paving the way for revolutionary advancements in automotive engineering.

Simon Fried is VP of marketing and business development at Classiq.