Atomionics co-founders
Singapore-based deep tech startup Atomionics recently announced that it has made the first-ever “virtual drill” for commercial resource discovery in Western Queensland, Australia. In a press statement, the company explains that virtual drilling allows the entire energy industry ecosystem to avoid unnecessary physical drills.
The commercial deployment of Gravio, the startup’s technology, is seen as a “new chapter in energy resources exploration, where efficiency, accuracy, and environmental responsibility are accessible realities.”
In a surveying expedition with Australian energy company Bridgeport Energy, Atomionics captured gravity data to identify potential resources underground. According to the company, gravity data is the fastest and least invasive way to identify the potential density of objects. For example, it helps to identify rocks that could contain oil deposits.
“Gravio is designed for forward-thinking companies in the resource sector who share our vision of a sustainable exploration future. Currently, we have three deployments underway with three of the world’s largest mining companies. We are also actively engaging in dialogues with industry leaders to explore new applications and shape a collective vision for the future of resource exploration,” explains Sahil Tapiawala, CEO and Co-Founder of Atomionics, in an email to e27.
Run by a team of 16 engineers and scientists with experience in cold atom physics, product development, and AI, Atomionics has the backing of government and technology leaders such as In-Q-Tel (a non-profit organisation founded by the CIA and various US government agencies) and Singapore’s SEEDs Capital.
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It also counts on the support of angel investors such as Pamela Vagata (Former AI Lead at Stripe and one of the founders of OpenAI), Keith Adams (Chief Architect at Slack who previously led Meta’s AI research team), Alex Turnbull (prolific fund manager), and Mikhail Zeldovich (CEO Trafigura Mongolia and Vietnam).
Previous investors include Wavemaker Partners, SGINNOVATE, Cap Vista (the investment arm of Singapore Defense), Paspalis, and 500 Global.
How the Gravio system works
The following is an edited excerpt of the interview with Tapiawala.
Can you tell us about the product development process of this solution?
The development of Gravio reflects Atomionics’ commitment to pioneering a future where quantum technology reshapes our interaction with the Earth’s resources.
It began with a vision to revolutionise resource exploration through advanced quantum sensing technology. Our multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and AI specialists worked collaboratively, transforming this vision into reality. The development process was marked by rigorous research and testing, ensuring the integration of cold atom interferometry in a portable, basketball-sized sensor. This groundbreaking approach enables us to deliver precise, non-invasive resource mapping, setting a new standard in the industry.
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Our process involved merging cutting-edge quantum physics with practical engineering to create a tool that serves today’s needs and paves the way for new, environmentally conscious exploration methods. This journey has been a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration, setting the stage for even more groundbreaking advancements in quantum sensing.
What impact does the company aim to make with this product?
Atomionics is spearheading a movement towards a more responsible and sustainable approach to resource exploration. We need 500 per cent more metal and resources as part of the energy transition. Atomionics’ aim is to create a global map of the earth’s crust to pinpoint and estimate resources that will power humanity over the next 50 years. The first step in this direction is building a quantum gravimeter that can serve as a virtual drill. We envision a future where we can enable an exponentially more efficient precision exploration.
Our vision extends beyond immediate industry impacts; we aim to influence global environmental practices and contribute significantly to the preservation of our planet while meeting the demands of critical industries like energy and electric vehicles.
Is there any particular market that Atomionics is aiming for? Why Australia?
Our focus extends globally, with a keen interest in markets at the forefront of resource exploration and environmental innovation. Australia was chosen for our initial commercial deployment due to its diverse geological landscape and the presence of potential resources like oil and critical minerals for electric vehicles.
Surveying the challenging environment of Western Queensland provided us valuable insights into Gravio’s performance under real-world conditions.
This setting allowed us to demonstrate our technology’s robustness and versatility, crucial factors as we prepare to expand into other diverse geographic and industrial landscapes.
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What is your revenue model and path to profitability as a deep tech company?
We are focused on responding to the overwhelming interest we have received from potential customers. We are deeply engaged in understanding their unique needs and challenges, which is guiding our technology development.
By working closely with these partners, we are fine-tuning Gravio to ensure it not only meets but exceeds industry expectations. This customer-centric approach is laying a solid foundation for Atomionics’ future growth and success, as we believe that a technology truly tailored to its users is the one that will thrive in the market.
What will be the company’s major plan in 2024?
In 2024, Atomionics is poised to embark on a transformative journey. Our plan encompasses scaling our technology globally, deepening our impact across various industries, and solidifying our role as a leader in sustainable resource exploration.
We are committed to driving innovation within Atomionics and across the entire sector, fostering a future where technology and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
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Image Credit: Atomionics
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