Tool and die steel are a foundational material whose importance persists across traditional and emerging industries. With the rapid development of emerging industries, such as new energy, there has been an unprecedented increase in the demand for tool and die steels with superior performances. Therefore, it is essential to conduct systematic fundamental research focusing on aspects such as compositional design and optimization, microstructural evolution characteristics, strength and toughness mechanisms, comprehensive preparation processes, service and failure behaviors.

With the development of the manufacturing industry, the application scenarios for tool and die steels have continuously evolved. As a result, there are ongoing technical demands within the tool and die steel industry chain regarding the selection of existing materials, the development of novel materials, and the improvement of comprehensive performance. Mechanism research can provide guidance for the iterative update of application technologies. By focusing on compositional design, smelting, forging, heat treatment, microstructure and properties, and service behaviors, the goal is to develop a stronger theoretical foundation for the application of tool and die steels, moving away from a simple trial-and-error approach towards a more guided and scientifically informed approach.

The Research Topic focuses on tools and die steels, including comprehensive preparation processes, the relationships among composition, microstructure, and properties, as well as service and failure behaviors. We especially welcome studies related to the effect of the basic properties of tool and die steel materials (such as toughness, resistance to tempering softening, thermal conductivity, etc.) on the service life of tool and die products. Both research and review papers are encouraged. To gather further insights into these areas, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Compositional optimization for enhanced mechanical properties

• Advanced smelting and forging techniques in steel preparation

• Impact of heat treatment on microstructural characteristics

• Service life analysis based on fundamental material properties

• Case studies on failure behaviors in industrial applications

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Design, Preparation and Application of Advanced Tool and Die Steels with Superior Properties