The State Research Center is deeply involved in development of mesomechanics, a new science linking continuum mechanics (macrolevel) with plasticity physics (microlevel). Mesomechanics treats a solid under load as a multilevel self-organizing system where micro", meso-, and macrolevels are organically interrelated and described by the same equations. A designer can enter the relevant data for the material under development into the computer, simulate its deformation and fracture under any loading conditions and optimize the compo-sition and structure of the material to reach target physicomechanical properties.

This provides the feasibility of computer-aided design of novel materials and prediction of the life time of those in current use. Based on mesomechanics, fundamental principles were formulated of design of materials and strengthening coatings with a damping structure capable of uniform redistribution of internal stresses over the bulk of the material, which averts the danger of sudden fractures and ensures high reliability and durability of structural materials. The damping approach was embodied in the development of new materials for tools and constructions.

Advanced materials and strengthening coatings are used for producing a wide range of tools, parts of oil field and drilling equipment, bearings, stop valves and fittings, and medical instruments.

• Tomsk Scientific Center, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences

• Institute of Strength Physics and Materials Science, Siberian Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences