NanoFrontier x Nittobo x Tohoku Univ. Co-creation Research Center for Accelerating Innovation with Nanomaterials

Name

Kouki Oka, Associate Professor, Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University

Outline of Research

This co-creation research center integrates the “reprecipitation method” developed over more than three decades at IMRAM, Tohoku University, with NanoFrontier’s continuous purification technology and Nittobo’s material development and mass-production capabilities. The center focuses on key applications such as organic nano-dyes for real-time detection of hazardous substances, high-thermal-conductivity nano-coolants for GPU data centers, and next-generation organic redox-flow electrolytes. As a permanent industry–academia collaboration hub within MaSC, it promotes R&D, human resource development and commercialization activities in an integrated manner.

Research Purpose

The aim of this project is to establish a scalable production process for organic nanoparticles based on the reprecipitation method and to continuously create application-ready materials for the environment, energy and life science sectors. We will jointly advance, through collaboration among the university, a startup and a large enterprise, from bench-scale optimization of particle size control and dispersion stability to g–kg-scale continuous production and on-site PoC and technology transfer.

Expected Effect

Through the activities of this co-creation research center, the practical implementation of nanomaterials that directly contribute to reducing environmental impact and improving energy efficiency will be accelerated, including high-sensitivity sensor materials for on-site, real-time detection of specific hazardous substances and high-performance nanofluids for data centers and energy storage systems. By fully utilizing shared facilities and the 3 GeV high-brilliance synchrotron radiation facility “NanoTerasu,” the center is also expected to generate broader impacts such as deeper industry–academia collaboration, expanded joint research with local companies, and the cultivation of the next generation of researchers.

SDGｓ

Contact Information

For Research Inquiries:
E-mail: oka＊imr.tohoku.ac.jp
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For Media/Press:
Tohoku University IMRAM
TEL： 022-217-5585
E-mail: press.tagen＊grp.tohoku.ac.jp
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Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd.
E-mail: ir＊nittobogrp.com
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HP:  https://www.nittobo.co.jp/

NanoFrontier Inc.
E-mail: corp＊nanofrontier.jp
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HP:  https://nanofrontier.jp