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■ Natural Science(Researh Center for Advanced Science and Technology)
- Research on TiO2 photocatalysis
At present,TiO2 photocatalysis are commonly employed industrial photocatalysts. In order to maximize the catalytic activity of these TiO2 photocatalysis,we are currently researching a variety of function control technologyies. Recently,this research has yielded positive results in the form of improvements in activity through an optical method that maximizes the utilization efficiency of photoexcitation,especially in collaborative research with the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology(AIST),which has observed a significant improvement in activity through a new method utilizing plasmon resonance.
- Research on apatite-based photocatalysts
The first catalysts other than TiO2 to be implemented in real applications are titanium apatite photocatalysts researched by Watanabe Laboratory. These materials differ to TiO2 in that they do not have the unique characteristics of semiconductors,and as such,have a special photocatalytic reaction that is also different to that of TiO2. Currently, in addition to foundational research on these types of reactions,we have linked up with corporate groups to enable research across a wide spectrum of target subjects,from air and water purification through agricultural applications,as part of our research into various characterisitics not found in TiO2.
- Research on the crystallization process utilizing plasma treatment
When TiO2 photocatalysis and transparent conductive film(e.g.ITO film) or thin film silicon are crystallized,a variety of functions are manifested. Heat is usually used in the crystallization process;however,when no level of thermal strain can be tolerated,for example,with high-precision devices and instances in which plastic substrates are used,heat treatment is not possible. At our laboratory,we have been researching crystallizaion process technologies which use plasma and throgh this research,we confirmed for the first time in the world that crystallization is possible with special plasma conditions. We also discovered that,under certain set conditions,it is possible to crystallize amorphous silicon,which can now be used in solar cells and other appications,at room temperature. From here,we also plan to engage in applied research on composite oxide devices related to various energy types.
- Research on hydrophobic and water-repelent surfaces
Control of surface wettability,including properties such as super-hydrophobicity,which repels water to an extreme degree,and super hydrophilicity that utilizes photoexcitation,is also important in an industrial sense,and as such,is a field that is also noteworthy at the fundamental level. At Watanabe Laboratory,we are involved in fundamental research of expression mechanisms of surface wettability. This does not mean surfaces that repel water droplets per se,but research of new materials that focuses on surfeces on which water slips easily(i.e.surfaces which prossess water water-sheeting properties).
- Research on functional structures utilizing a self-assembly process
We are also involved in fundamental research relating to the design and composition of functional structures that use the drive force of surface segregation or phase separation created as a result of a difference between surface energy levels. We are also experimenting with control of particularly luminescence behavior as micelle and thin-film elements by controlling wettabiligy with organic polymer thin film that utilizes service segregation and controlling pigment interaction through combining polymer and pigment to create a self-assembly process.
Principle and practice of self-cleaning technology
Self-cleaning functions have come to be used in a wide variety of products,particularly in those that utilize photocatalysts. At the foundation of these functions is the control of surface wettability. As the foundation of our comprehensive research into self-cleaning functions at Watanabe Laboratory,we are researchning photocatalytic materials and their reactions. We are also involved foundationl research of surface wettability and the development of wettability control materials with particular characterisitcs.
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*For all inquiries regarding the above,contact. We attempt to meet all requests concerning collaborative research,commissioned research and on-site lectures.
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