Content of research

We are developing and applying methods for predicting temporal changes in the microstructure of metallic materials during the series of phase transformations that occur in the manufacturing process, such as solidification, grain growth, and diffusional solid transformation. We are specifically engaged in the development of a phase-field model, a method to simulate microstructure formation, and have succeeded in developing a model that calculates the diffusional phase transformation with the highest accuracy in the world. We are also working on microstructure control in various alloy systems by combining experimental approaches, atomistic approaches using molecular dynamics, and information science approaches such as data assimilation and machine learning. We are developing new theories of microstructure formation by using ultra-large scale calculations and obtaining results that lead to optimization of the actual processes.

Potential for social implementation

• It is possible to optimize the manufacturing process of various metallic structural materials such as steel materials. Some of the developed models will be implemented in the metal MI system of the SIP program, “Structural Materials for Innovation.”

Appealing points to industry and local governments

This simulation method has been used in process design to improve the yield, quality, and material properties of ingots, and its application is still expanding. Many phenomena can already be targeted, and the range of phenomena that can be handled is expanding over time.