- Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells that differentiate and then proliferate in various organs
- High temperature superconductive wire to be used in electric power transmission
- Counteracting a flu pandemic crisis
- Fourth generation optical disc to follow Blu-ray discs
- Generating ultra-thin films at the molecular level
- Fundamental regenerative medicine technology: Generating cell sheets
- Discovery and clinical application of the gene responsible for lung cancer
- Clarifying the function of substances that recognize pathogens and activate the immunity system
- Transparent semiconductor from common materials
- Finding a new family of high temperature superconducting materials
- Development of highly functional and high performance light-emitting element originating in blue
- Organic synthesis method without use of organic solvents
- Plastic optical fiber that allows High-speed, large-capacity communication
- Enabling extra-large capacity hard disks
Kobayashi Highly Functionalized Reaction Environments Project
Shu Kobayashi (Professor, The University of Tokyo)
ERATO(2003-2008)
Development of chemical processes without organic solvents
Possible reduction of environmental load caused by chemical reactions through aqueous synthesis, etc.
Research Overview
It has long been accepted that chemical processes use organic solvents. However, in this project, a technique by which aqueous synthesis is performed without the use of organic solvents has been developed. Additionally, a technique to immobilize metallic catalysts that are highly active, easily collected and reused has been developed. These techniques have high potential as chemical processes with a lower environmental burden and superior economic efficiency.
Impact of Research Achievements
■ Efficient synthesis of drugs, fertilizers and aromatics, and cost reduction of organic chemical materials
■ Effective use of resources such as rare metals
■ Reduction of environmental burdens through reduced emissions of organic solvents and metals.
■ Proposition and demonstration of environmentally friendly chemical industry
■ Collaborative project with companies is ongoing.
Schematic diagram of polymer-supported gold nanocluster catalyst
(Photo shows transmission electron microscope image of gold nanocluster)
(Photo shows transmission electron microscope image of gold nanocluster)