A key feature of the project is the use of the Edinburgh Cray T3D parallel computer, which provides the necessary computing power for intensive studies. The diffusion of the alkali ions has been quantitatively reproduced and the mixed alkali effect has been observed.
Detailed studies are now underway to uncover the mechanism of the diffusion process.
The project is supported by the HPCI Materials Consortium headed by Prof. C.R.A. Catlow. A computer generated picture of the structure of sodium disilicate glass.