Integrating Energy Materials Research and Materials Informatics
Our research centers on two classes of energy materials: nuclear materials and thermoelectric materials, combining experiments and computations.
• For nuclear materials, we aim to enhance the safety and economic viability of nuclear reactors through fundamental property evaluations of nuclear fuels and reactor materials such as uranium dioxide and zirconium alloys.
• For thermoelectric materials, which directly convert heat into electricity, we aim to improve their conversion efficiencies for practical applications in waste-heat recovery and micro-scale power generation.
To accelerate the material discovery and development, we actively incorporate Materials Informatics, an innovative interdisciplinary field merging materials science with information science, to predict material properties and screen promising candidates.
Constructing Disaster Prevention Strategies and Fostering Safety Culture in Energy Systems
Our research and education focus on disaster prevention strategies essential for building safe and resilient energy systems. Specifically, we address both human-induced and natural disasters, notably earthquakes, within the context of key energy sources such as thermal, hydroelectric, and nuclear power. Through systematically developing disaster prevention frameworks and engaging in targeted education, we strive to foster a safety culture, which forms the foundation for societal acceptance of energy systems—particularly nuclear power.
Additionally, we carry out analytical research aimed at:
• Establishing evaluation methods for hazards that trigger disasters.
• Assessing and strengthening regional disaster preparedness and mitigation capabilities.
