Xanadu Quantum Technologies Inc. announced the development of quantum computational algorithms designed to accelerate the discovery and analysis of battery materials. The research, conducted in collaboration with the University of Toronto and the National Research Council of Canada, was published as a pre-print article.

The algorithms address challenges in simulating Resonant Inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) spectra, which is used to characterize how high-capacity batteries degrade over time. According to the research, the quantum algorithms can perform computational simulations that exceed the capabilities of classical methods for battery material analysis.

The algorithm requires fewer than 500 logical qubits to run for structures predicted to form in lithium-rich NMC cathode active materials, which falls within the expected requirements for early fault-tolerant quantum computers. The research focuses on lithium-excess cathode active materials for lithium batteries.

"The development of high-energy-density batteries is important for driving the energy demands of the future," said Christian Weedbrook, founder and chief executive officer of Xanadu. "We believe our results position fault-tolerant quantum computing as an essential tool for the battery industry and next-generation battery materials development."

Dr. Yaser Abu-Lebdeh, co-project lead and senior research officer at the NRC's Clean Energy Innovation Research Center, said the collaboration tackled a key challenge in battery research while demonstrating the potential of quantum computing through advanced quantum algorithms.

The research was part of the NRC's Applied Quantum Computing Challenge program, involving partnerships between the Government of Canada, private industry, and academia. Xanadu recently announced a business combination agreement with Crane Harbor Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: CHAC), with the combined company expected to be capitalized with approximately $500 million in gross proceeds.