A question on the diffusion effect as relates to complex, multi-folded pattern weld and other equivalent processes is what the final effect may be on the actual steel in the blade. Carbon is well-known to migrate pretty much evenly through all of the materials after a very large number of welds. Other compounds do not seem to migrate at the same rate, and some seem to do so partially (chromium partial? migration in pattern welds, vanadium). This leads to the question, or idea, of controlling and forming very complex laminate alloys combining tool steels, stainless, and high strength alloys to create very customized blades. Adding in the ability to create high carbon cutting steels and other small run batches through processes like Wootz or melting and it seems that there is no limit to what even a very small shop can create in a custom ferrous material. Edge insertion and lamination predate steel materials, kind of funny that sanmei has become a sort of brand name while wumei means nothing at all.
