Imagine a laboratory where robots tirelessly conduct experiments, freeing up researchers to focus on groundbreaking ideas. That vision is now closer to reality thanks to a new digital laboratory, or dLab, developed by researchers at the University of Tokyo and their collaborators. This innovative system fully automates the material synthesis and evaluation of thin-film samples.
The dLab, unveiled in Japan, 2024, represents a significant leap in data- and robot-driven materials science. Professor Taro Hitosugi of the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Science stated, "Today, laboratories are not merely the places to house experimental instruments, but rather the factories for producing materials and data, where experimental equipment operates as a system." The system autonomously synthesizes thin-film samples and measures their material properties.
The dLab consists of interconnected apparatuses for solid materials research. Robots collect experimental data, including synthesis processes and physical properties. This includes measurements of surface microstructures, X-ray diffraction patterns, Raman spectra, electrical conductivity, and optical transmittance.
The system integrates experimental instruments for automated materials synthesis and measurements. Data is outputted in a standardized XML format called MaiML and collected in a cloud-based database. This allows for efficient data analysis and utilization.
The team demonstrated the autonomous synthesis of lithium-ion positive-electrode thin films and their structural evaluation. This showcases the potential for accelerating the discovery of new materials for batteries and other applications. The researchers aim to improve the system by standardizing the orchestration software and scheduling.
Collaborating researcher Kazunori Nishio emphasized the goal: "We aim to digitalize the research and development environment, foster researchers who can utilize these technologies, and facilitate data sharing and utilization." This environment will fully leverage the creativity of researchers.