Fujitsu develops quantum/HPC hybrid computing technology to optimize solution brokering for customers JCN Newswire

Fujitsu develops quantum/HPC hybrid computing technology to optimize solution brokering for customers

TOKYO, Nov 8, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Fujitsu today announced the development of quantum/HPC hybrid computing technology to optimize workload selection for customers. The new AI-based software, which serves as a precursor to a future computer workload broker technology, automatically selects from different next-generation computing platforms(1) to offer the optimal solution to customers' problems based on parameters including calculation time, calculation accuracy, and costs.Figure 1: Image of the computing workload brokerFigure 2: Comparison of conventional technology and newly developed technologyFigure 3: Overview of quantum-HPC hybrid computing technologyThe new technology leverages the power of Fujitsu's world top-class 39-qubit quantum simulator and the "FUJITSU Supercomputer PRIMEHPC FX 700," equipped with the same A64FX CPU that powers supercomputer Fugaku, combining and selecting the optimum calculation method for customers' quantum chemical calculation (2) problems. Crucially, the technology allows users without specialized knowledge to use quantum simulators and HPC technology to provide effective solutions to real-world problems.World-leading advanced computing technologies for solutions to 21st century problemsFujitsu has a long track record in developing and providing world-leading computing technologies, exemplified by its development and efforts to commercialize the supercomputer Fugaku, next-generation quantum computing, as well as technologies that bridge the gap between conventional and quantum, like the Digital Annealer and quantum simulators.To promote the practical development of new quantum algorithms, Fujitsu announced the world's fastest quantum simulator in March 2022, initiating joint research in the field of materials science with Fujifilm Corporation(3) and Tokyo Electron Ltd.(4).Easy access to next-generation computing technologies for non-computing expertsFujitsu is currently working to develop a computing workload broker--a software technology that uses AI to automatically select the appropriate resources from advanced computing technologies and solutions, including large-scale cloud-based HPC, quantum computing, Digital Annealer, as well as quantum simulators to solve customers' complex problems. Fujitsu envisions the future computing workload broker as supporting both the automation and the optimization of calculation processing of multiple hardware devices and the optimization of calculation distribution for different platforms. In this way, the computing workload broker will enable high-speed calculations and solutions according to customers' specific needs.Outline quantum /HPC hybrid computing technologyTo realize its vision for the computing workload broker, Fujitsu has now developed a quantum/HPC hybrid calculation technology for solving quantum chemical problems to enable calculation-based clarification of the properties of materials used in drug discovery and new material development. The new technology, which serves as a precursor to the computing workload broker, enables high precision calculations at high speed by automatically and optimally combining two types of computers: a quantum simulator and HPC. The features of the new technology are as follows.1. Quantum/HPC algorithm discrimination technologyAlgorithms used in quantum chemical calculations require repeated calculations until a highly accurate solution is obtained. As the distance between atoms changes, determining whether quantum or HPC algorithms offer the optimal solution to a problem represents a difficult challenge for existing technologies. To this end, Fujitsu developed a solution to determine the accurate algorithm for a problem by analyzing how the algorithm converges on molecules. For problems where classical algorithms do not deliver sufficient results, the technology detects a specific pattern in the convergence state until the algorithm calculates a solution, so that the optimum algorithm can be determined by performing pre-processing on the problem experimentally using HPC algorithms.2. Computation time estimation technologyAccurate estimation of the convergence of the various molecular structures represented a complex task in quantum chemical calculations, and it proved difficult to estimate the time and cost required to obtain highly accurate solutions in advance. To address this issue, Fujitsu constructed an AI model able to estimate calculation amounts, costs and time in advance by utilizing an adaptive AI technology developed by Fujitsu to analyze the relationship between the molecular structure, the iterative calculation of the algorithm and the calculation time.3. Optimal control technology based on time, cost and accuracyIn order to enable customers to perform calculations at optimal costs and in optimal time, Fujitsu developed a technology that optimizes the performance of quantum chemical calculations. The technology takes into account both the calculation time and cost estimated by the quantum/HPC algorithm discrimination technology and the computation time estimation technology as well as the usage of calculation resources. In this way, the technology enables users to solve quantum chemical calculation problems in a way that best meets their needs without the need to choose from different computational resources themselves.Future PlansMoving forward, Fujitsu will verify the effectiveness of this technology and further develop it, with the aim of establishing a new computing workload broker technology in the field of quantum chemical calculations by fiscal 2023. Fujitsu will further continue to develop computing platforms that can be used by anyone without the need for expertise by adding services to Fujitsu Computing as a Service (hereinafter "CaaS"), Fujitsu's service portfolio to deliver customers access to world-leading computing technologies via the public cloud.(1) The technology interfaces with high-performance computing (hereinafter HPC) technologies including the following Supercomputer Fugaku :A computer installed at RIKEN as a successor to the K computer. From June 2020 to November 2021, it ranked first in 4 categories in the supercomputer rankings for 4 consecutive terms. Full operation started on March 9, 2021. Quantum inspired technology :A number of acceleration technologies inspired by quantum technology, but not quantum effects. This includes Fujitsu's Digital Annealer technology for solving complex combinatorial optimization problems.(2) Quantum chemical calculation :A technology field to analyze the properties and structure of molecules by simulating the interaction of electrons and atoms.(3) Fujifilm Corporation :Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan; President and CEO: Teiichi Goto(4) Tokyo Electron Ltd. :Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Representative Director, President & CEO: Toshiki KawaiAbout FujitsuFujitsu's purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$32 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2022 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: www.fujitsu.com. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)
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ULVAC-PHI Launches Sales of Latest XPS System that Dramatically Accelerates Battery Research and Development ACN Newswire

ULVAC-PHI Launches Sales of Latest XPS System that Dramatically Accelerates Battery Research and Development

Chigasaki, Japan, Jul 5, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - ULVAC-PHI Incorporated has launched the PHI GENESIS, an automated and multi-function scanning X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS: X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy or ESCA: Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis). The PHI GENESIS is the united model of PHI's multi-functional scanning XPS instruments and was designed for automation and simplified operation.PHI GENESIS scanning X-ray photoelectron spectrometerBackgroundAdvanced materials such as all-solid-state batteries, advanced semiconductors, and artificial photosynthesis are complex combinations of materials, and their research and development require speed in optimizing the performance of each material as well as the combination of materials. There is a growing need for high-performance and highly functional surface and interface analysis that can dramatically accelerate such research and development. ULVAC-PHI begins offering a new surface analysis system that not only offers extremely high basic performance but also a high degree of automation to meet the various individual requirements of worldwide customers. The solution is the new "PHI GENESIS" scanning X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) from ULVAC-PHI.SummaryThe "PHI GENESIS" XPS is a new product that combines the core "GENESIS" of the PHI surface analysis instruments, which has a 50-year tradition of advanced automation and reduced analysis time, with expandability, and offers overwhelming basic performance in a compact housing. The "PHI GENESIS" XPS provides high-speed, high-sensitivity, and overwhelming micro XPS analysis performance with automated multi-sample analysis with automatic sample exchange. A high-sensitivity analyzer with an improved counting rate also contributes to high performance. To date, ULVAC-PHI and Physical Electronics USA, a subsidiary of ULVAC-PHI, have developed various world-first XPS analysis technologies including scanning micro XPS and HAXPES (hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy), fully automated robotics XPS analysis, full-automatic insulator neutralization analysis, depth profiling of organic materials using cluster etching ion gun. All of these technologies are incorporated into a single instrument, making it possible to provide state-of-the-art XPS analysis technology for all kinds of materials, including metals, semiconductors, ceramics, and organic materials.Another novel feature of PHI GENESIS is a new software package designed for ease of use and designed for all levels of users, from surface analysis beginners to well-trained scientists, from manufacturing to cutting-edge research and development. We have also prepared several options that allow customers to perform advanced analyses that previously required sophisticated analytical equipment such as a large synchrotron in a typical laboratory environment.PHI GENESIS is fully compatible with the analysis of today's most advanced composite solid materials and composite solid devices and aims to dominate the global market as an indispensable analytical instrument for speeding up research and development.About ULVAC-PHI, IncorporatedULVAC-PHI, Incorporated was founded in 1982 and provides advanced surface analysis instruments to universities and leading-edge industries worldwide for research and development. The company provides comprehensive surface analysis technology-based solutions for materials and devices including metals, polymers, semiconductors, batteries, organic and inorganic devices and microelectronics. For more information, visit https://www.ulvac-phi.com/en/.X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy) is one of the most popular surface chemical analysis techniques that can provide chemical information on the top few atomic layers of a solid surface. XPS can provide qualitative and quantitative chemical information on solid surfaces by evaluating the energy and intensity of X-ray-induced electrons (photoelectrons). XPS is provided to universities and industrial research facilities as well as for quality control and quality assurance purposes, as it shows excellent features for the analysis of surface and interface phenomena such as coloration, adhesion, sliding, catalyst, thin-film interfaces and electrical contacts. For inquiries regarding this matter, please contactProduct Strategy Department, ULVAC-PHI CorporationTEL: +81-467-85-4220 (Sales)Related websitehttps://www.ulvac-phi.comhttps://www.surf-analysis.com Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)
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SDK and Microwave Chemical Start Joint Development of New Microwave-based Chemical Recycling Technology to Directly Transform Used Plastic into Basic Chemical Feedstock ACN Newswire

SDK and Microwave Chemical Start Joint Development of New Microwave-based Chemical Recycling Technology to Directly Transform Used Plastic into Basic Chemical Feedstock

TOKYO, Jun 28, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Showa Denko (SDK) (Tokyo: 4004) and Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd. (Microwave Chemical) have started joint development of a new microwave-based chemical recycling technology to directly transform used plastic into basic chemical feedstock. The two companies are implementing various steps to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and aim to commercialize the new technology soon.Chart 1: Comparison of microwave and conventional methodsChart 2: Showa Denko's Chemical Recycling BusinessSDK and Microwave Chemical will aim to develop a technology that decomposes used plastic containers and packaging by irradiating microwave, thereby producing basic chemical feedstock such as ethylene and propylene. By the end of this year, the two companies will study conditions for formation of product through microwave heating, search for catalysts to improve the yield of targeted components, and try to optimize conditions and processes for decomposition to establish basic technology.In the joint technology development, the two companies will use microwave heating, a kind of electric heating used also in a microwave oven. When an object is irradiated, microwave directly affects dielectric material, resulting in internal heating, selective heating and rapid rise in temperature. Compared with other heating methods, microwave heating is special in that it heats only the object. In the planned process, we will use microwave absorber (filler) to give energy in a focused way to used plastic, enabling efficient decomposition of used plastic into basic chemical feedstock. It will also reduce energy consumption for decomposition compared with conventional methods. (Chart 1) Taking advantage of such characteristics of microwave heating, we will aim to transform used plastic directly into basic chemical feedstock with low energy consumption and high efficiency.SDK has been engaged in chemical recycling operations since 2003 at its Kawasaki Plant, producing clean hydrogen and ammonia through thermal decomposition of used plastic. As a result, SDK has accumulated overall know-how concerning procurement of raw materials, decomposition, and manufacture of final product. (Chart 2) With its high-level technologies and deep expertise in process development, Microwave Chemical has the capability to scale up microwave technologies. In the area of chemical recycling, the company has established "PlaWave(TM)," a platform of microwave-based plastic decomposition technology, thereby dealing with various types of plastic.SDK and Microwave Chemical will work together to contribute toward achieving resource saving, resource circulation and a carbon-neutral society through this joint development.About Showa Denko K.K.Showa Denko K.K. (SDK; TSE:4004, ADR:SHWDY) is a major manufacturer of chemical products serving from heavy industry to computers and electronics. The Petrochemicals Sector provides cracker products such as ethylene and propylene, the Chemicals Sector provides industrial, high-performance and high-purity gases and chemicals for semicon and other industries, the Inorganics Sector provides ceramic products, such as alumina, abrasives, refractory/graphite electrodes and fine carbon products. The Aluminum Sector provides aluminum materials and high-value-added fabricated aluminum, the Electronics Sector provides HD media, compound semiconductors such as ultra high bright LEDs, and rare earth magnetic alloys, and the Advanced Battery Materials Department (ABM) provides lithium-ion battery components. For more information, please visit www.sdk.co.jp/english/.For further information, contact:Showa Denko K.K.Public Relations Group, Brand Communication DepartmentPhone: 81-3-5470-3235Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd.Public Relations (Okunaka)Phone: 81-6-6170-7595Email: pr@mwcc.jp Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)
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