Could we soon see the phrase “Created by an artificial intelligence” grace perfume packaging? Norwegian researchers have delved into the realm of fragrance creation using specially trained AI, led by Idelfonso Nogueira, a professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).
Their groundbreaking work involved recreating two fragrance formulas using Artificial Intelligence [1].
The process began with a meticulous analysis of the olfactory profiles of the two fragrances. The researchers aimed to characterize them based on their dominant notes, employing a mathematical model that factored in the olfactory significance of selected molecules. These compositions received the highest intensity scores, one belonging to the “coumarin” family and the other to the “alcoholic” fragrance family.
The subsequent phase involved training the AI, an artificial neural network. The researchers curated a database of known molecules associated with specific perfume notes, enabling the AI to generate combinations of olfactory molecules that faithfully recreated the two fragrance compositions.
However, recreating a fragrance goes beyond mere molecular assembly. It requires considering how each molecule interacts with its environment, shaping the overall olfactory experience. This concept, known as the olfactory pyramid, accounts for the progression of top, middle, and base notes over time. Professor Nogueira’s team meticulously selected molecules with interaction profiles closely mirroring those of the original scents.
To refine their creation further, the researchers employed AI once more to minimize discrepancies between the target compositions and their AI-derived replicas.
In the end, while their recreation for the coumarin family exhibited slight variances, the replication of the alcoholic fragrance closely mirrored the target composition.
This groundbreaking research not only offers insights into perfume creation but also holds promise for other applications. AI could aid in preserving olfactory heritage by recreating scents from the past and safeguarding current fragrances threatened by factors like global warming or globalization.
Moreover, AI’s potential extends beyond the perfume industry. It could revolutionize product development processes across various sectors, including skincare and makeup, by expediting innovation and customization while reducing costs.
Artificial Intelligence emerges as a powerful tool for innovation and creation, promising to transform industries and empower individuals with its limitless possibilities.
Source: premiumbeautynews.com
