In order to improve the automotive fuel efficiency, many materials technologies have been applied. Recently, the use of higher functional parts (such as lighter and tougher, higher thermal conductivity and functionally gradient materials) is dramatically increasing in preparation for future Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) and Real Driving Emissions (RDE) standards. Improvements of materials, shape and manufacturing process, such as an additive manufacturing, are avenues to make these functional parts and achieve goals.

However, “revealing the origin of each function” is a major hurdle to ensuring product reliability and achieving mass-production. This is because the properties of functional parts are governed by “invisible phenomena” like nanostructure or electronic structure, which are difficult to understand if only conventional macroscopic evaluation methods such as durability testing were used.

To achieve the efficient development of new material technologies, Honda has focused on first principle calculations and advanced characterization techniques such as quantum beam experiments.

In this talk we will present Honda’s recent activities and interest, including results from collaborations with SPring-8, Aichi SR and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
 
About the speaker
Dr. Tomohiro Ikeda is a chief-engineer in the Power Materials Unit at Honda. He has a PhD from Tsukuba University in Japan and specialized in super conductivity. Since joining Honda, he investigates functional materials including catalysts, magnets and thermoelectrics, as well as structural materials with a particular focus on additive manufacturing.  He uses synchrotron and neutron diffraction to achieve a detailed understanding of material properties.