Research Topics

Development of a new chemical process that combines plasma chemistry and electrochemistry

As a method of utilizing surplus electricity derived from renewable energy, CO2 reduction by plasma or solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) is attracting attention, but CO2 reduction by SOEC has a problem that the catalyst is easily deteriorated. There is a problem that CO2 reduction by plasma causes CO2 to be regenerated by the reverse reaction. Therefore, in our laboratory, we are conducting research to mutually complement these defects by generating plasma on the surface of SOEC and to reduce and reform CO2 synergestically. We are also conducting research on applying this hybrid reactor for various checmial processes.

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Development of a new chemical process using plasma pressure swing

When considering the pressure conditions for ammonia synthesis by plasma, low pressure is advantageous in terms of kinetics and high pressure is advantageous in terms of thermodynamics. We are conducting research to overcome this dilemma by swinging the pressure of the plasma reactor and to synthesize ammonia with high efficiency. We are also conducting research on using pressure swing reactors for various chemical processes.

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Nanocarbon material synthesis using plasma process and its structural control

In non-thermal plasma CVD using carbon monoxide as a carbon source material, various forms of nanocarbon materials such as carbon nanofibers and carbon nanowalls can be synthesized without catalyst. Furthermore, since carbon materials have the property of orienting and growing in the direction of the electric field, our laboratory is conducting research to control the morphology and growth direction of nanocarbon materials by controlling the direction of the electric field in plasma. We are also conducting research on applying the nanocarbon materials to electrodes for energy conversion devices and biosensors by modifying the surface using methods such as atomic layer deposition.

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Chemical synthesis using an internal combustion engine

Internal combustion engines are exposed to headwinds due to the demand for reduction of carbon dioxide emissions, but there have been remarkable progress in engine combustion control systems in recent years, especially direct fuel injection type reciprocating engines, etc., which are highly controllable high temperature and high pressure reactors and threfore it can be regarded as a chemical reactors. In our laboratory, we are conducting research to explore new possibilities for internal combustion engines as chemical reactors, such as nanocarbon material synthesis using engines and functional fine particle synthesis.
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Other major research themes

  • Study on isotope separation using vibrationally excited molecules
  • Research on wastewater purification and radioactive waste treatment
  • Dental cavity treatment by atmospheric pressure plasma jet

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