Projects
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Study of Quantum Plasticity and Supersolidity of solid 4He by Observing Motion of Sinking Object
Solid helium is often referred to as quantum solid and known to deform easily and rapidly even under tiny force, strongly subjected to quantum effect. A number of research have been conducted to study its elasticity, or reversible deformation, but its plasticity, or irreversible deformation, is scarcely understood. In the proposed experiment, we are going to precisely measure the motion of objects sinking in solid helium to elucidate the quantum effects on the plasticity of solid helium. Especially, the local superflow expected to exist in cores of dislocations and grain boundaries are to be examined, in the context of supersolidity.
Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists 2025.4.1~2028.3.31
Mechanisms underlying the dynamic strength of cancellous bone based on the impact strength of individual trabeculae and microarchitecture
Osteoporotic fractures occur in cancellous bone due to even minor impacts. In addition to bone mass, the impact strength of individual trabeculae and the microarchitecture are hypothesized to determine the dynamic strength of cancellous bone. This study aims to experimentally clarify these mechanisms and apply the findings to further improve the control of dynamic fracture risk.
Satoshi Yamada, Tomohiro Shimizu and Kazuhiro Fujisaki
Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B) 2025.4.1~2028.3.31
Development of a 3D-printable head protection material with superior impact absorption and durability using biomimetic porous structures
We are developing a novel 3D-printable head protection material using a biomimetic structure inspired by cancellous bone architecture. This offers excellent multi-impact absorption capabilities. Its high three-dimensional isotropy enables it to absorb impacts from any direction. The porous design can be freely tailored to meet specific shape and performance requirements. In addition to head protection, the material shows strong potential for applications in body protection gear and cushioning materials for transporting precision equipment.
Satoshi Yamada, Yuelin Zhang, and Keita Kawashima
Adaptable and Seamless Technology transfer Program through Target-driven R&D (A-STEP) 2024.12.1~2027.3.31
Novel continuous-time crystallinity observed in a superfluid dripping system
While the dripping period of a classical viscous fluid is widely distributed due to the influence of chaos, the dripping period of a superfluid 4He liquid is discretized to a constant value specified by integers even if the inflow rate changes. We clarify that this robust discretization is the realization of a continuous-time crystal from the viewpoints of inflow rate phase diagram, temperature phase diagram, wall shape and dimensionality, and time-domain phonon excitation.
Ryuji Nomura, Tomoyuki Tani, and Yuki Aoki
Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(B) 2025.4.1~2028.3.31
One-Pass Synthesis of BTX from CO₂ Enabled by Precisely Controlled Catalysts
CO₂ utilization is essential for achieving carbon neutrality, and among potential target products, BTX (benzene, toluene, and xylene) are key basic chemicals in a post-fossil society. In this study, we build on previous collaborative research between the University of Tokyo, Hokkaido University, and Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. We aim to precisely control the catalyst structure at the atomic level, enabling one-pass synthesis of BTX from CO₂. Through this approach, we seek to establish a catalyst process that is robust and scalable, suitable for industrial application, and capable of supporting a sustainable future without reliance on fossil resources.
Shohei Tada, Kotaro Takeyasu, Ryota Osuga, Kenta Iyoki, Yuichiro Kanematsu, and Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.
NEDO Feasibility Study Program (2025~)