Projects

  • Collaboration on bulk-edge correspondence in gapless topological > phases

    To significantly progress our joint research, we will invite a researcher from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay to engage in 11 days of in-person discussion focused on bulk-edge correspondence and in gapless topological phase and effects of disorders. We also plan to discuss future application plans aimed at continuing collaborative research.

  • High-harmonic generation of by topological magnon edge states

    Theoretical and experimental research on high harmonic generation originating from topological edge states of magnons is conducted.

  • Research and Development of Core Technologies for Next-Generation Semiconductor Microfabrication

    In April 2025, an R&D project for innovative fundamental technologies considered essential for the further development of next-generation semiconductor technologies has been launched, bringing together institutions and human resources with cutting-edge technologies related to EUV lithography (the overall principal investigator is Katsumi Midorikawa, special advisor to RIKEN). The research topics will mainly be the development of new lasers, mirrors for EUV, and laser microfabrication technology for back-end processing. In this project, Tomita will be responsible for the development of measurement and optimization techniques for the plasma for EUV light sources generated by the laser.

  • Construction of an Energy Forecasting GIS and Development of Design Methods for Power Sharing Networks Utilizing Existing Buildings

    Moving forward, Japan’s decarbonization must be driven by efforts that capitalize on the distinct characteristics of each region. Our research aims to develop a tool for predicting energy consumption in large building groups and evaluating the availability of renewable energy. In parallel, by proposing an optimized design methodology for power interchange networks that facilitates efficient electricity use, we will make it easier to formulate the best decarbonization plans tailored to specific regions.

  • Creation of a Novel Evaluation Method for Assessing the Efficacy of Water Treatment Processes on Hard-to-Culture Viruses Without Relying on Conventional Cell Culture Approaches

    This study aims to elucidate the removability of “non-culturable” viruses, such as norovirus, in water treatment processes—whose behavior in such treatments remains completely unknown. In this study, virus-like particles (VLPs) composed of viral capsid proteins will be produced using genetic engineering techniques. By incorporating foreign genes into these VLPs using non-viral vector construction methods and applying them to water treatment experiments, we seek to establish a novel evaluation method for viral removability that does not rely on cultivation.

  • A study on the application of accelerated carbonation cement paste powder by wet-dry cycle technique to supplementary cementitious material

    Carbonated recycled concrete paste can serve as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) with pozzolanic properties from alumina-silica gel. Additionally, since it contains fine particles of calcium carbonate, it is expected to enhance concrete performance through its filling effect when used as SCM. Previous studies have shown that the wet-dry cycle method promotes CO₂ absorption and increases the porosity of concrete paste. Based on this, the study aims to efficiently absorb CO₂ using waste concrete paste through the wet-dry cycle method and seeks to recycle resources and enhance concrete performance by reusing the carbonation products as SCM.

  • Research and Development of Anomaly Detection Technology for Civil Infrastructures Using Electret Vibrational Energy Harvesting Device and Wireless Power/Data Transfer

    We will develop a battery-less anomaly detection device capable of sensing the condition and environment of infrastructure structures, and establish a wireless energy and data communication platform. In particular, a system will be realized that allows monitoring via an IoT network using microwave spatial transmission (WPDT) technology of information related to structural deterioration, damage, environmental conditions, and faults autonomously detected by electret MEMS sensors powered by environmental vibration energy harvesting. This will enable the social implementation of a seamless monitoring platform targeting infrastructure structures and their auxiliary facilities, capable of phase-free response at all times, including both normal and emergency conditions.

  • Material Behavior and Mechanical Performance Based on Hierarchical Structure Formation of 3D-Printed Concrete

    This study investigates the hierarchical structure of 3D-printed concrete (3DP concrete) by analyzing two key aspects: the microscopic heterogeneity caused by material segregation within the filament during deposition, and the macroscopic non-uniformity resulting from interfacial voids formed along the printing path. By clarifying these higher-order structures, we demonstrate that 3DP concrete possesses multiscale material properties and mechanical behavior, making it a hierarchical material. Furthermore, we establish a systematic academic framework for understanding how heterogeneity (material geometry) and non-uniformity (structural geometry) are embedded as geometric parameters in 3D spatial information, providing insights into the mechanical performance and failure modes of 3DP concrete.

  • Development of radiation technology to clarify the microstructure of concrete, which is becoming more diverse in a decarbonized society

    Concrete, the main construction material, is the second most widely used substance after water. As concrete has a large environmental impact on a global scale, we are conducting research at the ultrafine level of its internal structure of concrete using advanced radiation technology to develop a new type of concrete that reduces the emissions of carbon dioxide and other gases that accompany its manufacture, without compromising its strength or durability. In this way, we can achieve a decarbonized society.

  • Development of dimension reduction scheme for data assimilation using criticality experiments

    The nuclear cross section uncertainty given as a covariance matrix will be used to evaluate the realistic range of important parameters in the safety analysis of nuclear reactors. In recent discussions, the application of data assimilation is considered important to incorporate criticality experiment findings. However, there is a practical issue to treat the covariance matrix after applying data assimilation because the covariance matrix becomes much denser one by causing complex correlated components and the computational cost becomes increased. This research project develops a dimension reduction scheme to solve this practical issue.