In this update, we discuss legal, policy and industry developments in the advanced materials sector.
New report highlights the UK’s strong position at the intersection of artificial intelligence and advanced materials
On 14 April, Digital Catapult and Innovate UK published The UK at the AI Frontier, a report looking at how the UK can convert its world-class data and research into world-leading AI capabilities.
“Theme 3” considers the potential for AI in advanced materials research, identifying a range of challenges and opportunities, many of which related to how to secure improved access to usable data.
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) founds Materials Innovation Leadership Group
Co-chaired by Lord Vallance Minister of State for Science, Innovation, Research and Nuclear and Allan Cook CBE, the group brings together senior leaders from industry, academia and research to provide independent, expert advice to DSIT.
In-space manufacturing (ISM) report 2026
March, Tracxn published a report showing that the UK is the second largest recipient of ISM equity funding over the past decade (after the US), thanks to companies like Cardiff based Space Forge.
The report notes that: “for ISM to capture meaningful share within this expanding economy, microgravity-enabled products must demonstrate measurable, defensible performance advantages over terrestrial alternatives.”
New computer chip material inspired by the human brain that could reduce AI’s energy consumption
The University of Cambridge published details of some promising research for which Cambridge Enterprise has filed a patent application.
Milestone for domestic manufacturing of ultrahigh temperature materials, vital for space, hypersonic and propulsion systems
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory announced that Cross Manufacturing Ltd has run a successful pilot manufacturing ceramic metal composites, which are said to be: “lightweight yet as strong as metal. They are capable of withstanding temperatures exceeding 1,000°C – hotter than molten lava. Unlike conventional metals, they hold their strength and shape under extreme heat and stress.”
Historically, the UK has relied on overseas suppliers for these specialist materials.
New circular construction hub opens in East London
Tipping Point East in Royal Docks will generate sustainable materials by recycling and reusing construction waste. It is said that the facility is set to become the largest in Europe, boosting Sadiq Khan’s ambition for London to be a “zero carbon” city by 2030.
The National Materials Innovation Programme (NMIP) launched
NMIP is an £80m investment programme (via Innovate UK + EPSRC on behalf of UKRI) focused on turning advanced materials science into real world products.
If you would like to discuss any of the matters in this update, or need legal advice connected to the development or deployment of AI please get in touch.
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