Generation and Utilization of Ultra-High-Density Energy

When substances are exposed to ultra-high pressures, ultra-high magnetic fields, or ultra-high temperatures, they behave in unusual ways. By utilizing these phenomena, creation of new substances and novel processing of materials become possible. This Department researches how to generate ultra-high pressures of 10 million atm or more, and how to generate ultra-high magnetic fields of 100 Tesla or above by use of explosives and electrical discharges. Research is also conducted into the synthesis of new substances by applying ultra-high pressures and ultra-high temperatures (Upper photo), and into new functions of matter and chemical reactions under high magnetic fields, high pressures, and extremely low temperatures. Also being developed are new spraying processes using ultra-high speed and high-density plasma (Lower photo).

High resolution TEM photograph of heterodiamond polycrystal, consisting of carbon, nitrogen, and boron synthesized in a dynamic ultra high pressure process

SEM photograph of a tungsten film section formed on a mild steel substrate surface by continuous rail electrode type plasma generator, where S is the mild steel substrate, A is tungsten, and B is a layer of tungsten-iron alloy.