Technology
[Supercritical Water Reaction]: This process allows the mixing of substances that normally cannot combine, like water and oil. In this state, it is possible to synthesize materials unattainable under normal conditions or convert biomass and plastic waste into petroleum or chemical raw materials
When substances are exposed to extremely high temperatures and pressures, they enter a "supercritical" state, which is neither gas, liquid, nor solid. In this state, water can dissolve substances that are insoluble in normal conditions, enabling the mixing of materials and the creation of new ones. Additionally, it allows the transformation of biomass and plastic waste into petroleum or chemical raw materials.
Strength
It is possible to design nanoparticles tailored to any material. By combining inorganic and organic molecules, new materials with two distinct properties can also be developed
This technology is anticipated to revolutionize various industrial sectors by creating groundbreaking new materials.
Biomass and plastic waste can be converted into alternative petroleum or raw chemical materials by reacting them with supercritical water, without the need for catalysts
This technology is highly anticipated not only for recycling waste but also as a key approach to reducing reliance on fossil resources.
Use Case
①
Development of a material Combining the Properties of Metals and Ceramics to Improve Automotive Engine Electric Device Efficiency by Double-Digit Percentages
As electric devices in automobiles become smaller and more powerful each year, the heat generated per device has increased dramatically, necessitating materials that efficiently dissipate heat. Metals conduct heat well but pose a risk of electrical leakage, while ceramics and plastics alone have poor thermal conductivity. Using the "supercritical method," ceramics and plastics have been combined to create a new material that is highly thermally conductive, eliminates the risk of electrical leakage, and offers excellent adhesion and moldability. This innovation has led to a double-digit improvement in the required power efficiency of automotive engines.
②
Production of Impurity-Free Artificial Talc for Safer Food Additives and Cosmetics
Talc used in food additives and cosmetics is traditionally derived from natural minerals, which can sometimes contain metal impurities, raising safety concerns among consumers. Using the supercritical method, talc can be artificially produced from chemical compounds, resulting in impurity-free and uniform particles.
This artificial talc is free of allergens, making it a promising alternative to mineral-derived talc for safer applications in food additives and cosmetics.
③
Contributing to the Production of Alternative Petroleum and Chemical Raw Materials from Waste
Biomass waste and plastic waste pose significant environmental challenges, yet their recycling remains minimal. At the same time, the chemical industry faces increasing pressure to reduce reliance on petroleum, making the development of technologies to convert these wastes into alternative petroleum and chemical raw materials a pressing priority.
In a supercritical water state, water dissociates more readily, allowing reactions to proceed rapidly without the need for acid or base catalysts. By utilizing this process, biomass waste and plastic waste can be efficiently converted into alternative petroleum and chemical raw materials.
④
Applications across various fields
1. Development of Catalysts for Hydrogen Production Using Heat Emitted from Factories and Power Plants
2. Development of Custom-Made Medical Devices Using 3D Printing Ink Materials
3. Production of effective vaccines & more
Message from the Lab
What I want to know
Professor in Soft Materials at the Advanced Institute for Materials Research,
Tohoku University
Tadafumi Adschiri Prof.
Tohoku University International Synchrotron Radiation Innovation and Smart Research Center
Akira Yoko, Associate Professor
• Understanding the Applications, Potential, and Needs for New Materials with Unique Properties Across Different Countries
– Envisioning SIH as a platform where global needs and challenges intersect with the technological seeds developed by Japanese universities.
• Identifying the Needs of Countries Seeking Technologies for Utilizing Abundant Biomass Waste and Plastic Waste
– Exploring opportunities in regions where biomass and plastic waste are abundant, but effective utilization technologies are lacking.
Desired Candidate Profile
Individuals with a Deep Understanding of Social and Business Challenges in Specific Fields.
Researchers in Different Fields Who See Potential for Collaborative Research
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