Tag: Nanotechnology

Micropillar compression for finding heat-tolerant alloys

Tsukuba, Japan, Jan 13, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Metals containing niobium silicide are promising materials that can withstand high temperatures and improve efficiency of gas turbines in power plants and aircraft. But it has been difficult to accurately determine their mechanical properties due to their complex crystal structures. Now, scientists at Kyoto University in Japan have measured what happens at the micro-level when pressure is applied on tiny samples of these materials. The approach, published in the journal Science and Technology of Advanced Materials, could help scientists obtain the accurate measurements needed to understand the atomic-level behaviour of complex crystals to develop more heat-tolerant components in gas turbines.
The scientists measured the plastic deformation that happened when a tiny probe exerted force on the micropillar specimens with various loading axis orientations.



"Our results demonstrate the cutting edge of research into plastic deformation behaviour in crystalline materials," says Kyosuke Kishida, the study's corresponding author.

Plastic deformation describes the distortion that occurs at the atomic level when a sustained force is applied to a crystal. It is difficult to measure in complex crystals. Kishida and his colleagues have been using a new approach to systematically measure plastic deformation in crystals showing promise for use in high temperature gas turbines.

In this study, they measured plastic deformation in a niobium silicide called alpha-Nb5Si3. Tiny 'micropillars' of these crystals were exposed to very small amounts of stress using a machine with a flat-punch indenter at its end. The stress was applied to different faces of the sample to determine where and how plastic deformation occurs within the crystal. By using scanning electron microscopy on the samples before and after the test, they were able to detect the planes and directions in which deformation occurred. This was followed by simulation studies based on theoretical calculations to further understand what was happening at the atomic level. Finally, the team compared the results with those of a boron-containing molybdenum silicide (Mo5SiB2) they had previously examined.

"We found that instantaneous failure occurs rather easily in alpha-Nb5Si3, which is in marked contrast to Mo5SiB2," says Kishida.

This could mean alpha-Nb5Si3 is at a disadvantage compared to Mo5SiB2 for use as a strengthening component in metal-based alloys. Kishida and his team think, however, that this material's inherent brittleness could be improved by adding other alloying elements.

The team plans to use the approach to study mechanical properties of other crystalline materials with complex structures.

Further information
Professor Kyosuke Kishida
Kyoto University
kishida.kyosuke.6w@kyoto-u.ac.jp

Paper: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14686996.2020.1855065

About Science and Technology of Advanced Materials Journal

Open access journal STAM publishes outstanding research articles across all aspects of materials science, including functional and structural materials, theoretical analyses, and properties of materials.

Shunichi Hishita
STAM Publishing Director
HISHITA.Shunichi@nims.go.jp

Press release distributed by ResearchSEA for Science and Technology of Advanced Materials.

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

TANAKA Receives 2020 Technology Award from Catalyst Manufacturers Association, Japan

TOKYO, Oct 29, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka) announced today that TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which operates the TANAKA Precious Metals manufacturing business, has received the 2020 Technology Award from the Catalyst Manufacturers Association, Japan, (CMAJ). The award was in recognition of the company's joint development of a hydrophobic precious metal catalyst in collaboration with the National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (Headquarters: Chiba-shi, Chiba; President: Toshio Hirano; QST). Hitoshi Kubo, from TANAKA, and Yasunori Iwai, from QST, received the award and gave an acceptance speech at the 2020 CMAJ award ceremony, held online on October 14.
Hydrophobic precious metal catalyst


Hydrophobic precious metal catalyst floating on water



Examples of Hydrophobic Precious Metal Catalyst Products

The hydrophobic precious metal catalyst for which the Technology Award was received was developed through a collaboration between TANAKA and QST. It was developed as an ambient-temperature hydrogen oxidation technology for ITER and other nuclear fusion facilities. With its hydrophobicity enabling the catalytic reaction to be maintained even at ambient temperatures, it is used for hydrogen oxidation reactions. With conventional catalysts, moisture in the reaction gas and water vapor generated during reactions cover the catalyst surface and stop the catalytic reaction, so they must be heated to prevent the water vapor coating from occurring. Also, normal catalysts use plastic as the carrier, which makes them heat sensitive, causing combustion to occur as the temperature of the catalyst increases through the reaction.

This newly developed catalyst employs an inorganic material, which has better resistance to heat and radiation than plastic, as its underlying carrier. The carrier has a hydrophobic group attached (a substance that is difficult to mix with water), which creates a uniform hydrophobic surface to the carrier to improve its hydrophobic and heat-resistant properties. According to internal testing at TANAKA, a precious metal catalyst consisting of this carrier coated with platinum can maintain hydrophobicity for 24 hours at a temperature of 450 degrees C.

This catalyst can be used for oxidation reactions of hydrogen and combustible gases, in nuclear fusion facilities and elsewhere, without the need for heaters and other equipment. It also enables reactions in outdoor environments without access to an electric power source or in disaster-affected areas during power failures. Because of the hydrophobic properties of this catalyst, it has potential applications in safety equipment to prevent explosions and other accidents. It is particularly promising for use in infrastructure development for the hydrogen energy society.

[2020 Technology Award from Catalyst Manufacturers Association, Japan]
– Category: Technology Award
– Recipients:
— Hitoshi Kubo, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
— Yasunori Iwai, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology
– Recognition: Development of a hydrophobic precious metal catalyst

Notes
Catalyst Manufacturers Association, Japan, was founded to promote the sound development of Japan's catalyst industry, including companies manufacturing catalysts, producing catalyst-related materials, and dealing with catalyst products. It is Japan's leading catalyst industry association, with participation by major catalyst manufacturers. The association's award system recognizes excellence in advanced catalyst-related technologies and technologies that have made a significant contribution to the catalyst industry each year through Technology Awards, Distinguished Service Awards, and Special Awards.

ITER is an immense international project that aims to create mankind's first experimental fusion reactor for demonstrating the scientific and technological feasibility of nuclear fusion energy for peaceful purposes. The seven ITER Members – Japan, Europe, the United States, Russia, Korea, China, and India – aim to begin the operation of the reactor by 2025.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees: 2,393 (as of March 31, 2020)
Sales: JPY 992,679,879,000 (FY2019)
Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import, and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.
URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com

National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology
Headquarters: 4-9-1, Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
President: Hirano Toshio
Established: 2016
Employees: 1,301 full-time staff (as of September 1, 2020)
Business activities: Cancer therapy with charged particles, radiation effects on human bodies, medical applications of radiation, radiation protection and radiation emergency medicine, material science with quantum beams, development of life science with quantum beams, quantum science with high power lasers, nuclear fusion as the ultimate energy source for mankind centered around international collaborations such as the ITER Project and the Broader Approach (BA) Activities.
URL: https://www.qst.go.jp/site/qst-english/

Press release in PDF: http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/20201029_EN.pdf

Press Inquiries
TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Impact BioMedical to Begin Efficacy Testing of Pan-Coronavirus Vaccine Under New Wholly Owned Subsidiary Innate Immune, Inc.

Rochester, N.Y., Oct 2, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Document Security Systems, Inc. ("DSS" or the "Company") (NYSE American: DSS), a multinational company operating businesses focusing on brand protection technology, blockchain security, direct marketing, healthcare, real estate, and securitized digital assets, today announced its wholly owned subsidiary Impact BioMedical, Inc. ("Impact BioMedical") has formed a new wholly owned subsidiary, Innate Immune, Inc. ("Innate Immune"), to initiate efficacy testing of a pancoronavirus vaccine, a special type of vaccine designed to protect against multiple coronaviruses.

"Highly pathogenic human coronaviruses are continuously emerging and remain a major threat to human health," stated Daryl Thompson, Impact BioLife's Director of Scientific Initiatives and founder of advanced research company GRDG Sciences, LLC ("GRDG"). Impact BioLife is a wholly owned subsidiary of Impact BioMedical. "Our pan-coronavirus vaccine is designed to allow us to not only protect against COVID-19, which is likely here to stay, but also allow for us to quickly respond to any outbreaks of a virus of this type in the future."

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses and are common throughout the world. There are currently seven known human coronaviruses that can make people sick. Common human coronaviruses, including types 229E, NL63, OC43, and HKU1, usually cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory tract illnesses, while MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and now SARS-CoV2 can cause more severe pulmonary diseases.

"COVID-19 has already cost more than one million lives and continues to disrupt the $133 trillion global economy," commented Jason Grady, COO of DSS. "A successful pan-coronavirus vaccine could save countless lives while lessening or even preventing the types of disruptions we have seen this year that have impacted nearly everyone on the planet."

Innate Immune's orally delivered pan-coronavirus vaccine has a well demonstrated safety profile and is designed to quickly be scaled for global distribution, ease of manufacturing, and high degree of stability. Innate Immune has gathered a globally recognized team of virologists to complete the research necessary to bring this vaccine to market.

"The need for a solution to COVID-19 and potential future human coronaviruses is clear. We believe this vaccine can provide that solution while remaining economically affordable, ensuring availability across the globe" stated Chan Heng Fai, Chairman of DSS.

GRDG's Chief Scientific Advisor Dr. Roscoe M. Moore, Jr., the former United States Assistant Surgeon General and former Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC commented, "This pan-coronavirus vaccine is designed to boost a human's innate ability to fight viruses such as SARS-CoV2 by activating all phases of the human immune system. If successful, it could allow us to prevent further deaths and global economic disruptions from coronaviruses."

GRDG is a specialized research team that focuses on developing solutions for biodefense under the guidelines of the Project BioShield Act, Event 201, and Potomac Institute for Policy Studies.

GRDG performs rapid analysis and research by using advanced algorithms and the most complete databases in the world. The team operates in a lean and efficient manner and when necessary utilizes the top contract research organizations to deliver solid results that are robust and accurate.

About Impact BioMedical, Inc.
Impact BioMedical, Inc. ("Impact BioMedical") is a wholly owned subsidiary of DSS. Impact BioMedical strives to leverage its scientific know-how and intellectual property rights to provide solutions that have been plaguing the biomedical field for decades. By tapping into the scientific expertise of GRDG Sciences, LLC, Impact BioMedical pledges to undertake a concerted effort in the R&D, drug discovery and development for the prevention, inhibition, and treatment of neurological, oncological and immuno related diseases. For more information on Impact BioMedical visit http://impbio.com/.

About Document Security Systems, Inc.
DSS is a multinational company operating businesses focused on brand protection technology, blockchain security, direct marketing, healthcare, real estate, and securitized digital assets. Its business model is based on a distribution sharing system in which shareholders will receive shares in its subsidiaries as DSS strategically spins them out into IPOs. Its historic business revolves around counterfeit deterrent and authentication technologies, smart packaging, and consumer product engagement. DSS is led by its Chairman and largest shareholder, Mr. Fai Chan, a highly successful global business veteran of more than 40 years specializing in corporate transformation while managing risk. He has successfully restructured more than 35 corporations with a combined value of $25 billion. For more information on DSS visit http://www.dsssecure.com.

Investor Contact:
Dave Gentry, CEO
RedChip Companies Inc.
407-491-4498
Dave@redchip.com

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

TANAKA Develops “TRuST” Precursor for CVD/ALD Processes; Using Liquid Ruthenium Precursor to Achieve World’s Highest Vapor Pressures

TOKYO, Sep 30, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka) announced today that TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which operates the TANAKA Precious Metals manufacturing business, has developed a new liquid ruthenium precursor named "TRuST" for CVD[1] and ALD[2] processes. The vapor pressure of "TRuST" is more than 100 times higher as compared to that to previous liquid ruthenium (element symbol Ru) precursors[3], which is currently the world's highest vapor pressure value at room temperature as per TANAKA's internal evaluation.
"TRuST" precursor for CVD and ALD processes


Comparison of vapor pressure of precursor



During this precursor development, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo focused on material design and synthesis research, while Professor Soo-Hyun Kim, Ph.D., School of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering at Yeungnam University in South Korea, researched to optimize the film formation characteristics.

Technologies developed through this collaboration will help increase performance and reduce energy consumption for the semiconductor devices used in smartphones, computers, and the data centers where demand is to grow well into the future.

Precursors are metal-organic compounds used in chemical vapor deposition (CVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD) and other processes to form thin metal films or metal wiring on substrates. CVD and ALD processes enable the formation of films with superior step coverage on various types of base substrate. These are useful methods for forming films as semiconductors become increasingly miniaturized, with increased structural complexity, and narrower wires with every new generation.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo has developed a range of precious metal precursors over the years, including ruthenium precursors. This time, computer simulation and other techniques were used to achieve miniaturization and optimization of the molecular structure. This resulted in the successful development of a precious metal compound in a liquid form, with high vapor pressure, and thermal stability suited for film formation, all of which are important characteristics for precursors. As a result, this compound has the world's highest vapor pressure over 100 times higher than that of previous liquid ruthenium precursors. The higher the vapor pressure of precursors and the smaller their molecular structure, the higher the possible concentration of precursor in the film formation chamber, and the greater the adsorption density of precursor molecules on the substrate surface. Compared to previous precursors, this achieves excellent step coverage and improved film formation speed.

According to research carried out at Yeungnam University, ALD film formation at approximately 1.7 angstrom (A) per cycle is possible, which is the world's fastest of its type using liquid ruthenium precursor. Also, specific resistivity after film formation is approximately 13 microhm-cm, which is close to the value of bulk ruthenium metal (7.6 microhm-cm).

When bulk ruthenium is used for vapor deposition, with a temperature as high as 3000 degrees C. However, if it is converted into an organometallic compound of ruthenium precursor, it can be vaporized at low temperatures (between room temperature to 200 degrees C) under vacuum. As a result, the formation of high-quality ruthenium film with excellent step coverage at high productivity is expected. This has been an issue in the past because it is technically difficult to achieve all these characteristics at the same time. With the development of "TRuST" however, it is now possible.

Samples of Shipments of "TRuST" should begin shipping samples are planned to start in October 2020.

Background and TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo's development of precursor for CVD/ALD processes

In the past, the most common wiring materials used for semiconductors were copper, tungsten and cobalt. However, as semiconductors have evolved, there are increasing expectations for the precious metal ruthenium to promote further miniaturization of semiconductors because of its lower resistance and higher durability. With its superior characteristics, ruthenium is also being considered for use in transistor gate electrodes and DRAM capacitor electrodes.

The progress of technologies such as IoT, AI, and 5G over recent years has led to rapidly increasing volumes of digital data used in clouds, smartphones, and computers. Therefore, the need for even greater miniaturization of semiconductors is increasing to enable the creation of devices with higher performance and lower energy consumption. As a specialized manufacturer of precious metals, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo will continue contributing to this evolution of semiconductors through the development of high-quality semiconductor materials.

With the support of Professor Soo-Hyun Kim, from the College of Engineering at Yeungnam University, a researcher from TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo will give a presentation of this technology at the "International Interconnect Technology Conference (IITC) 2020", which will be held online from October 5-8, 2020. The title of the presentation is High-growth-rate atomic layer deposition of high-quality Ru Using a Novel Ru metalorganic precursor.

[1] Chemical vapor deposition (CVD): CVD is a chemical film formation method. It is a method of forming thin metal films on the surfaces of base materials or substrates through a chemical reaction induced and accelerated by directing energy, in forms such as heat, plasma and light, at gaseous vapor material fed into a reaction chamber at pressures between atmospheric pressures to medium vacuum pressures (100-10-1 Pa).
[2] Atomic layer deposition (ALD): Both CVD and ALD are film formation methods that use chemical reactions inside reaction chambers to deposit material onto substrates through the vapor phase. The main difference between the two methods is that while CVD continually forms atomic and molecular layers, ALD forms the layers intermittently one layer at a time.
[3] Precursors: Precursors are compounds used as the raw material for forming thin metal films and metal wiring on substrates.

TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Holding company of TANAKA Precious Metals)
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918*
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees in consolidated group: 5,138 (FY2019)
Employees: 221 (March 31, 2020)
Net sales of consolidated group: JPY 1,149,604 million (FY2019)
Main businesses of the group: The holding company at the center of TANAKA Precious Metals responsible for strategic and efficient group management and management guidance to group companies.
URL: https://www.tanaka.co.jp/english/
* TANAKA Holdings adopted a holding company structure on April 1, 2010.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees: 2,393 (as of March 31, 2020)
Sales: JPY 992,679,879,000 (FY2019)
Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.
URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com

About TANAKA Precious Metals

Since its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a diversified range of business activities focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and resources. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies within and outside Japan work together with unified cooperation between manufacturing, sales, and technological aspects to offer products and services. Additionally, to make further progress in globalization, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo welcomed Metalor Technologies International SA as a member of the Group in 2016.

As precious metal professionals, TANAKA Precious Metals will continue to contribute to the development of an enriching and prosperous society.

The five core companies that make up TANAKA Precious Metals are as follows.
– TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (pure holding company)
– TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
– TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K.
– Electroplating Engineers Of Japan, Limited
– TANAKA Kikinzoku Jewerly K.K.

Press release in PDF: http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/20200930.pdf

Press Inquiries
TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

TANAKA Develops “TRuST” Precursor for CVD/ALD Processes; Using Liquid Ruthenium Precursor to Achieve World’s Highest Vapor Pressures

TOKYO, Sep 30, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka) announced today that TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which operates the TANAKA Precious Metals manufacturing business, has developed a new liquid ruthenium precursor named "TRuST" for CVD[1] and ALD[2] processes. The vapor pressure of "TRuST" is more than 100 times higher as compared to that to previous liquid ruthenium (element symbol Ru) precursors[3], which is currently the world's highest vapor pressure value at room temperature as per TANAKA's internal evaluation.

During this precursor development, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo focused on material design and synthesis research, while Professor Soo-Hyun Kim, Ph.D., School of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering at Yeungnam University in South Korea, researched to optimize the film formation characteristics.

Technologies developed through this collaboration will help increase performance and reduce energy consumption for the semiconductor devices used in smartphones, computers, and the data centers where demand is to grow well into the future.

Precursors are metal-organic compounds used in chemical vapor deposition (CVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD) and other processes to form thin metal films or metal wiring on substrates. CVD and ALD processes enable the formation of films with superior step coverage on various types of base substrate. These are useful methods for forming films as semiconductors become increasingly miniaturized, with increased structural complexity, and narrower wires with every new generation.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo has developed a range of precious metal precursors over the years, including ruthenium precursors. This time, computer simulation and other techniques were used to achieve miniaturization and optimization of the molecular structure. This resulted in the successful development of a precious metal compound in a liquid form, with high vapor pressure, and thermal stability suited for film formation, all of which are important characteristics for precursors. As a result, this compound has the world's highest vapor pressure over 100 times higher than that of previous liquid ruthenium precursors. The higher the vapor pressure of precursors and the smaller their molecular structure, the higher the possible concentration of precursor in the film formation chamber, and the greater the adsorption density of precursor molecules on the substrate surface. Compared to previous precursors, this achieves excellent step coverage and improved film formation speed.

According to research carried out at Yeungnam University, ALD film formation at approximately 1.7 angstrom (A) per cycle is possible, which is the world's fastest of its type using liquid ruthenium precursor. Also, specific resistivity after film formation is approximately 13 microhm-cm, which is close to the value of bulk ruthenium metal (7.6 microhm-cm).

When bulk ruthenium is used for vapor deposition, with a temperature as high as 3000 degrees C. However, if it is converted into an organometallic compound of ruthenium precursor, it can be vaporized at low temperatures (between room temperature to 200 degrees C) under vacuum. As a result, the formation of high-quality ruthenium film with excellent step coverage at high productivity is expected. This has been an issue in the past because it is technically difficult to achieve all these characteristics at the same time. With the development of "TRuST" however, it is now possible.

Samples of Shipments of "TRuST" should begin shipping samples are planned to start in October 2020.

Background and TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo's development of precursor for CVD/ALD processes

In the past, the most common wiring materials used for semiconductors were copper, tungsten and cobalt. However, as semiconductors have evolved, there are increasing expectations for the precious metal ruthenium to promote further miniaturization of semiconductors because of its lower resistance and higher durability. With its superior characteristics, ruthenium is also being considered for use in transistor gate electrodes and DRAM capacitor electrodes.

The progress of technologies such as IoT, AI, and 5G over recent years has led to rapidly increasing volumes of digital data used in clouds, smartphones, and computers. Therefore, the need for even greater miniaturization of semiconductors is increasing to enable the creation of devices with higher performance and lower energy consumption. As a specialized manufacturer of precious metals, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo will continue contributing to this evolution of semiconductors through the development of high-quality semiconductor materials.

With the support of Professor Soo-Hyun Kim, from the College of Engineering at Yeungnam University, a researcher from TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo will give a presentation of this technology at the "International Interconnect Technology Conference (IITC) 2020", which will be held online from October 5-8, 2020. The title of the presentation is High-growth-rate atomic layer deposition of high-quality Ru Using a Novel Ru metalorganic precursor.

[1] Chemical vapor deposition (CVD): CVD is a chemical film formation method. It is a method of forming thin metal films on the surfaces of base materials or substrates through a chemical reaction induced and accelerated by directing energy, in forms such as heat, plasma and light, at gaseous vapor material fed into a reaction chamber at pressures between atmospheric pressures to medium vacuum pressures (100-10-1 Pa).
[2] Atomic layer deposition (ALD): Both CVD and ALD are film formation methods that use chemical reactions inside reaction chambers to deposit material onto substrates through the vapor phase. The main difference between the two methods is that while CVD continually forms atomic and molecular layers, ALD forms the layers intermittently one layer at a time.
[3] Precursors: Precursors are compounds used as the raw material for forming thin metal films and metal wiring on substrates.

TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Holding company of TANAKA Precious Metals)
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918*
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees in consolidated group: 5,138 (FY2019)
Employees: 221 (March 31, 2020)
Net sales of consolidated group: JPY 1,149,604 million (FY2019)
Main businesses of the group: The holding company at the center of TANAKA Precious Metals responsible for strategic and efficient group management and management guidance to group companies.
URL: https://www.tanaka.co.jp/english/
* TANAKA Holdings adopted a holding company structure on April 1, 2010.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees: 2,393 (as of March 31, 2020)
Sales: JPY 992,679,879,000 (FY2019)
Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.
URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com

About TANAKA Precious Metals

Since its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a diversified range of business activities focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and resources. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies within and outside Japan work together with unified cooperation between manufacturing, sales, and technological aspects to offer products and services. Additionally, to make further progress in globalization, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo welcomed Metalor Technologies International SA as a member of the Group in 2016.

As precious metal professionals, TANAKA Precious Metals will continue to contribute to the development of an enriching and prosperous society.

The five core companies that make up TANAKA Precious Metals are as follows.
– TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (pure holding company)
– TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
– TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K.
– Electroplating Engineers Of Japan, Limited
– TANAKA Kikinzoku Jewerly K.K.

Press release in PDF: http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/20200930.pdf

Press Inquiries
TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Impact BioMedical Demonstrates 10-Fold Reduction in Viral Population of COVID-19 in Surface Disinfectant Efficacy Testing of its 3F Antiviral Biofragrance

Rochester, N.Y., Sep 18, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Document Security Systems, Inc. ("DSS" or the "Company") (NYSE American: DSS), a multinational company operating businesses focusing on brand protection technology, blockchain security, direct marketing, healthcare, real estate, and securitized digital assets, today announced its wholly owned subsidiary Impact BioMedical, Inc. ("Impact BioMedical"), through its subsidiary Global BioLife, Inc. ("Global BioLife"), completed efficacy testing of its proprietary 3F Antiviral Biofragrance ("3F Biofragrance) at a biosafety level 3 containment facility at an independent university. The study demonstrated a 10-fold reduction in COVID-19 viral population on surfaces using 3F Biofragrance.

"We're extremely excited with the results of the study, which was based on a quantifiable, robust model and designed to treat high levels of the COVID-19 virus," stated Daryl Thompson, Global BioLife's Director of Scientific Initiatives and founder of advanced research company GRDG Sciences, LLC ("GRDG"). "As the world continues to battle COVID-19, common antimicrobial compounds have the potential to be overused, leading to new health concerns. We designed 3F Biofragrance to solve this issue through a multi-focal approach to inhibiting viruses that reduces the chances of developing resistance as seen with other antimicrobials."

3F Biofragrance was designed for the Open Air Defense Initiative, a strategy to protect locations where large numbers of people gather or transit such as airports, containment areas, train stations, convention centers, hospitals, and ports of entry. The Open Air Defense Initiative was created as a solution for Event 201, a pandemic exercise conducted in 2019 by the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, the World Economic Forum and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Event 201 highlighted areas where public/private partnerships are vital to respond to a severe pandemic. In addition to COVID-19, 3F Biofragrance is effective against E. coli, MRSA, Influenza, Rhinovirus, and Tuberculosis.

In the latest study, 3F Biofragrance demonstrated success as a surface disinfectant, killing the COVID-19 virus in concentrations as low as 1/5000 or 0.02%. In comparison, typical antimicrobial surface disinfectants have concentrations of 0.1% to 1.8%.

Impact BioLife is currently in joint development with multiple global cosmetics and consumer products companies for the commercialization of the 3F Biofragrance technology.

"3F Biofragrance has the potential to transform typical consumer products into weapons against the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses, and we look forward to providing updates on ongoing negotiations for global licensing and royalty agreements of this innovative technology," continued Thompson.

The global market for antimicrobial additives, estimated at $2.2 billion in 2020 and growing at a CAGR of 8.4%, is expected to reach $4.3 billion in 2027, according to Grandview Research, and the global fragrance ingredients market is expected to reach $16.1 billion by 2027, up from $13.6 billion in 2019, according to data from Allied Market Research.

GRDG's Chief Scientific Advisor Dr. Roscoe M. Moore, Jr., the former United States Assistant Surgeon General and former Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC commented, "This latest study affirms our belief that our 3F Biofragrance technology can play an important role in the battle against COVID-19 through a wide variety of consumer applications."

"As a result of the profound and unprecedented global experiences surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, consumers around the world now have a newly heightened awareness of the importance of microbial-resistant products and surfaces, and 3F Biofragrance could provide an extremely effective and safe alternative to meet this growing demand," added GRDG's Chief Strategy Advisor, Lieutenant Colonel William H. Lyerly Jr., retired U.S. Army Medical Service Corps Officer who also served as a senior official in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the U.S. Executive Office of the President (White House).

GRDG is a specialized research team that focuses on developing solutions for biodefense under the guidelines of the Project BioShield Act, Event 201, and Potomac Institute for Policy Studies.

GRDG performs rapid analysis and research by using advanced algorithms and the most complete databases in the world. The team operates in a lean and efficient manner and when necessary utilizes the top contract research organizations to deliver solid results that are robust and accurate.

About Impact BioMedical, Inc.
Impact BioMedical, Inc. ("Impact BioMedical") is a wholly owned subsidiary of DSS. Impact BioMedical strives to leverage its scientific know-how and intellectual property rights to provide solutions that have been plaguing the biomedical field for decades. By tapping into the scientific expertise of GRDG Sciences, LLC, Impact BioMedical pledges to undertake a concerted effort in the R&D, drug discovery and development for the prevention, inhibition, and treatment of neurological, oncological and immuno related diseases. For more information on Impact BioMedical visit http://impbio.com/.

About Document Security Systems, Inc.
DSS is a multinational company operating businesses focused on brand protection technology, blockchain security, direct marketing, healthcare, real estate, and securitized digital assets. Its business model is based on a distribution sharing system in which shareholders will receive shares in its subsidiaries as DSS strategically spins them out into IPOs. Its historic business revolves around counterfeit deterrent and authentication technologies, smart packaging, and consumer product engagement. DSS is led by its Chairman and largest shareholder, Mr. Fai Chan, a highly successful global business veteran of more than 40 years specializing in corporate transformation while managing risk. He has successfully restructured more than 35 corporations with a combined value of $25 billion. For more information on DSS visit http://www.dsssecure.com.

Investor Contact:
Dave Gentry, CEO
RedChip Companies Inc.
407-491-4498
Dave@redchip.com

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

TANAKA Wins Award in Industry of FY2019 FCDIC Honoring System

TOKYO, Sep 10, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka) announced today that TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which operates the TANAKA Precious Metals manufacturing business, has won the "Award in Industry" under the FY2019 FCDIC Honoring System, which is run by the Fuel Cell Development Information Center (FCDIC). The award was given in recognition of the contribution TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo brought over the years to industries in the field of fuel cell catalysts.
Awards ceremony – Tomoyuki Tada, Executive Officer of TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo


Fuel cell catalyst



A certificate of commendation was presented at the "FY2019 FCDIC Honoring System Awards Ceremony" held on September 9th at Sola City Conference Center (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo). Tomoyuki Tada, Executive Officer of TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo, attended the awards ceremony, and Koichi Matsutani of the FC Catalyst Development Center, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo, gave a commemorative speech.

The FCDIC Honoring System, which comprises four awards, were established in 2016 to commemorate the company's 30th year anniversary. The Award in Industry, Award in Science, Incentive Award and Special Achievement Award are presented to organizations and individuals who make marked contributions to promote fuel cell development and manufacturing, and to advance and develop the science and technology related to fuel cells. The aim of the awards is to grant the fuel cell technology development and support the promotion of the fuel cell systems.

[Details of Prize Awarded (FY2019 FCDIC Honoring System – Award in Industry)]
– Award type: Award in Industry
– Awarded for: Contribution to industries in fuel cell catalyst field
– Recipient: TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.

TANAKA in the Development and Manufacture of Fuel Cell Catalysts

As a general precious metal manufacturer, TANAKA determined future potential for fuel cells as a next generation energy and started its research and development of fuel cell catalysts since the 1980s. TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo specializes in customizing products to respond to customers' requests. In coordination with industry and academia, TANAKA has maintained the global top share of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PFEC) in electrode catalysts for nearly 15 years. In 2019, TANAKA expanded its FC Catalyst Development Center, thereby enhanced its production capability.

As the market of fuel cells expands, the demand for lower cost and high-quality products is increasing. TANAKA is continuously engaging in developing technology such as manufacturing process and analytical technique development. Going forward, TANAKA will improve fuel cell performance and develop catalysts with reduced amount of precious metals in order to supply products that contribute to enabling a hydrogen-based society that can aid in environmental conservation.

TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Holding company of TANAKA Precious Metals)
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918*
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees in consolidated group: 5,138 (FY2019)
Employees: 221 (March 31, 2020)
Net sales of consolidated group: JPY 1,149,604 million (FY2019)
Main businesses of the group: The holding company at the center of TANAKA Precious Metals responsible for strategic and efficient group management and management guidance to group companies.
URL: https://www.tanaka.co.jp/english/
* TANAKA Holdings adopted a holding company structure on April 1, 2010.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees: 2,393 (as of March 31, 2020)
Sales: JPY 992,679,879,000 (FY2019)
Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.
URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com

About TANAKA Precious Metals

Since its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a diversified range of business activities focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and resources. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies within and outside Japan work together with unified cooperation between manufacturing, sales, and technological aspects to offer products and services. Additionally, to make further progress in globalization, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo welcomed Metalor Technologies International SA as a member of the Group in 2016.

As precious metal professionals, TANAKA Precious Metals will continue to contribute to the development of an enriching and prosperous society.

The five core companies that make up TANAKA Precious Metals are as follows.
– TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (pure holding company)
– TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
– TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K.
– Electroplating Engineers Of Japan, Limited
– TANAKA Kikinzoku Jewerly K.K.

Press release in PDF: http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/2020910.pdf

Press Inquiries
TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

TANAKA Memorial Foundation to Offer Precious Metals Research Grants of up to 5 Million Yen

TOKYO, Sep 1, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – The TANAKA Memorial Foundation (Representative Director: Hideya Okamoto) announced that it will take applications for research themes for FY2020 Precious Metals Research Grants between September 1 (Tue) and November 30 (Mon). Applications will be accepted from Japanese educational institutions and public research institutes conducting research and development using precious metals. In this 22nd year of the research grant, recipients will receive 5 million yen for the Platinum Award, 2 million yen for the Gold Award, 1 million yen for the Silver Award, 1 million yen for the Young Researcher Award, and 300,000 yen for the Encouragement Award.

Applications for the Precious Metals Research Grants are open to themes in all fields related to new technology and research and development in which precious metals can make a contribution. Applications can be submitted using the application form on the TANAKA Memorial Foundation website (https://tanaka-foundation.or.jp), and, after strict examination, award recipients will be announced at the end of March 2021.

The TANAKA Memorial Foundation aims to contribute to the development and cultivation of new fields for precious metals and to the development of science, technology, and the social economy by conducting activities that enable more people to experience a prosperous society. This program is being implemented to help support the various challenges faced in the "new world opened up by precious metals." Last year research on "precious metals recycling technology" that operates at a lower cost, is more efficient, uses less energy, and has a low-carbon footprint won a Gold Award. Another Gold Award was presented for research on a "high-sensitivity measurement system" that brought to light the organic bond structure and dynamic molecular behavior of the surface of gold.

Overview of the 2020 Precious Metals Research Grants

Theme:
– Themes that involve any of the following: new technologies to which precious metals can make a contribution, research related to precious metals that will bring innovative evolution to products, or research and development of new products using precious metals

Grant Amounts:
– Platinum Award: 5 million yen (1 award)
– Gold Award: 2 million yen (1 award)
– Silver Awards: 1 million yen (4 awards)
– Young Researcher Awards: 1 million yen (2 awards)
– Encouragement Award: 300,000 yen (several awards)
* The grant amount is treated as a scholarship donation.
* Awards may not be granted in some cases.
* The number of awards is subject to change.

Eligible Candidates:
– Personnel who belong to (or work for) educational institutions in Japan (universities, graduate schools, or technical colleges) or public and related research institutions may participate.
* As long as the applicant is affiliated with a research institution in Japan, the base of activity can be in Japan or overseas.
* The Young Researcher Awards are for researchers under the age of 37 as of April 1, 2020.

Application Period:
– 9am, September 1, 2020 (Tue) – 5pm, November 30, 2020 (Mon)

Application Method:
– Enter the required information on the application form available on the TANAKA Memorial Foundation website (https://tanaka-foundation.or.jp) and upload details of the research (papers and supplementary material on the theme).

Announcement:
– Results will be announced on the TANAKA Memorial Foundation website around the end of March 2021.
* TANAKA will contact the award recipients directly.

Conditions:
Research content that falls under any of the following
– New technology related to precious metals
– Research and development related to precious metals that bring about innovative evolution in products
– Research and development of new products using precious metals
* Precious metal refers to eight elements of platinum, gold, silver, palladium, rhodium, iridium, ruthenium and osmium.
* If development is conducted jointly (or planned to be) with other material manufacturers, please indicate so.
* Products that have already been commercialized, put to practical use, or that are planned are not eligible.

Inquiries Concerning the Research Grant Program:
Precious Metals Research Grants Office
Marketing Department, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
22F Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-6422
TEL: 03-6311-5596 FAX: 03-6311-5529 E-mail: joseikin@ml.tanaka.co.jp
TANAKA Memorial Foundation website: http://tanaka-foundation.or.jp

Press release: http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/2020901.pdf

TANAKA Memorial Foundation

Established: April 1, 2015
Address: 22F Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Hideya Okamoto (Senior Advisor to TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.)
Purpose of Business: To provide grants for research related to precious metals to contribute to the development and cultivation of new fields for precious metals, and to the development of science, technology, and the social economy.
Areas of Business: Provision of grants for scientific and technological research related to precious metals. Recognition of excellent analysis of precious metals and holding of seminars and other events.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.

Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees: 2,393 (as of March 31, 2020)
Sales: JPY 992,679,879,000 (FY2019)
Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.
URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com

Press Inquiries
TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

TANAKA Selected in Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry’s 2020 Global Niche Top Companies

TOKYO, Aug 5, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka) announced today that TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which operates the TANAKA Precious Metals manufacturing business, has been selected and awarded by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) as one of its "Global Niche Top Companies Selection 100" (GNT Companies Selection 100) and has just received the certification.
Global Niche Top Companies Selection 100 certificate


Fuel cell catalysts



Companies selected in the GNT Companies Selection 100 are being recognized by METI for excelling in niche sectors of global markets or for being outstanding companies with businesses focused on parts or materials with increasing importance for supply chain in a changing international landscape. On June 30, 2020, METI announced the selection of 113 companies for its 2020 GNT Companies Selection 100. TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo was recognized and awarded a certificate in the materials and chemistry category for its catalyst products for fuel cells.

Development and Manufacture of Fuel Cell Catalysts by TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo

Electrode catalysts for fuel cells are materials that promote chemical reactions within fuel cells to turn hydrogen into water and electricity. Vehicles equipped with fuel cells (FCVs) are much more energy-efficient than vehicles that use energy from the combustion of gasoline or other fuels. Because there are no greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as carbon dioxide, emitted during use, FCVs are expected to provide benefits from the perspective of environmental conservation in particular. As a comprehensive manufacturer of precious metals, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo was an early developer of electrode catalysts that use platinum, with the belief that they can make a significant contribution to the fuel cell industry.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo specializes in customization to meet the needs of its customers. In collaboration with industry and academia, it has also maintained, for about 15 years, the leading share of the global market for electrode catalysts for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEFCs). In 2019, it expanded capacity at its FC Catalyst Development Center and enhanced production capabilities. As a result, it has built a system that will rapidly respond with stable supplies to increases in demand for electrode catalysts as the fuel cell market grows.

With the use of fuel cells becoming more widespread, demand for cost reductions and improved quality are also increasing, so TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo is continuing to develop related technologies, including the development of manufacturing processes and analysis technologies. Going forward, the company will continue to develop catalysts that improve the performance of fuel cells and reduce the use of precious metals in order to deliver products that contribute to a hydrogen society and help conserve the environment.

Reference: METI press release for the 2020 Global Niche Top Companies Selection 100
https://www.meti.go.jp/press/2020/06/20200630002/20200630002.html

TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (Holding company of TANAKA Precious Metals)
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918*
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees in consolidated group: 5,138 (FY2019)
Employees: 221 (March 31, 2020)
Net sales of consolidated group: JPY 1,149,604 million (FY2019)
Main businesses of the group: The holding company at the center of TANAKA Precious Metals responsible for strategic and efficient group management and management guidance to group companies.
URL: https://www.tanaka.co.jp/english/
* TANAKA Holdings adopted a holding company structure on April 1, 2010.

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO
Founded: 1885
Incorporated: 1918
Capital: 500 million yen
Employees: 2,393 (including overseas subsidiaries) (as of March 31, 2020)
Sales: JPY 992,679,879,000 (FY2019)
Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.
URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com

About TANAKA Precious Metals
Since its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a diversified range of business activities focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and resources. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies within and outside Japan work together with unified cooperation between manufacturing, sales, and technological aspects to offer products and services. Additionally, to make further progress in globalization, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo welcomed Metalor Technologies International SA as a member of the Group in 2016.

As precious metal professionals, TANAKA Precious Metals will continue to contribute to the development of an enriching and prosperous society.

The five core companies that make up TANAKA Precious Metals are as follows.
— TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd. (pure holding company)
— TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
— TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K.
— Electroplating Engineers Of Japan, Limited
— TANAKA Kikinzoku Jewerly K.K.

Press release in PDF: http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/200805_EN.pdf

Press Inquiries
TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Using AI to predict new materials with desired properties

Tsukuba, Japan, Aug 1, 2020 – (ACN Newswire) – Scientists in Japan have developed a machine learning approach that can predict the elements and manufacturing processes needed to obtain an aluminum alloy with specific, desired mechanical properties. The approach, published in the journal Science and Technology of Advanced Materials, could facilitate the discovery of new materials.
Aluminum alloys are lightweight, energy-saving materials which are used for various purposes, from welding materials for buildings to bicycle frames. (Credit: Jozef Polc via123rf)



Aluminum alloys are lightweight, energy-saving materials made predominantly from aluminum, but also contain other elements, such as magnesium, manganese, silicon, zinc and copper. The combination of elements and manufacturing process determines how resilient the alloys are to various stresses. For example, 5000 series aluminum alloys contain magnesium and several other elements and are used as a welding material in buildings, cars, and pressurized vessels. 7000 series aluminum alloys contain zinc, and usually magnesium and copper, and are most commonly used in bicycle frames.

Experimenting with various combinations of elements and manufacturing processes to fabricate aluminum alloys is time-consuming and expensive. To overcome this, Ryo Tamura and colleagues at Japan's National Institute for Materials Science and Toyota Motor Corporation developed a materials informatics technique that feeds known data from aluminum alloy databases into a machine learning model. This trains the model to understand relationships between alloys' mechanical properties and the different elements they are made of, as well as the type of heat treatment applied during manufacturing. Once the model is provided enough data, it can then predict what is required to manufacture a new alloy with specific mechanical properties. All this without the need for input or supervision from a human.

The model found, for example, 5000 series aluminum alloys that are highly resistant to stress and deformation can be made by increasing the manganese and magnesium content and reducing the aluminum content. "This sort of information could be useful for developing new materials, including alloys, that meet the needs of industry," says Tamura.

The model employs a statistical method, called Markov chain Monte Carlo, which uses algorithms to obtain information and then represent the results in graphs that facilitate the visualization of how the different variables relate. The machine learning approach can be made more reliable by inputting a larger dataset during the training process.

Further information
Ryo Tamura
National Institute for Materials Science
tamura.ryo@nims.go.jp

Paper: https://doi.org/10.1080/14686996.2020.1791676

About Science and Technology of Advanced Materials Journal

Open access journal STAM publishes outstanding research articles across all aspects of materials science, including functional and structural materials, theoretical analyses, and properties of materials.

Chikashi Nishimura
STAM Publishing Director
NISHIMURA.Chikashi@nims.go.jp

Press release distributed by ResearchSEA for Science and Technology of Advanced Materials.

Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com