A concrete vision: Saint-Gobain and Microsoft Discovery build for the future
microsoft ·
Saint-Gobain has partnered with Microsoft to utilize the AI-powered platform Microsoft Discovery for accelerating research into sustainable construction materials. By leveraging this technology, researchers reduced a year-long knowledge base creation process to just a few hours while identifying novel chemical additives for cement. This initiative aims to lower carbon emissions, as cement production accounts for approximately 7% of global CO2 output. The collaboration also highlights operational improvements, such as a cut-to-order system for plaster board that eliminates waste and speeds up installation by 30%. To further embed artificial intelligence in its strategy, Saint-Gobain appointed Annica Hagen as its first chief artificial intelligence officer. Silvia Mariani, managing director of the Innovation Hub Europe, expressed optimism about how these tools will enhance scientific discovery and efficiency. The partnership underscores a broader commitment to using digital solutions for decarbonization rather than adopting technology merely for its own sake.
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