{"id":5217,"date":"2022-09-04T01:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-03T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/shokubai.mediawars.ne.jp\/ja\/?page_id=5217"},"modified":"2025-12-20T12:11:49","modified_gmt":"2025-12-20T03:11:49","slug":"future","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/rd\/future\/","title":{"rendered":"R&#038;D for the future"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"m_visualHeading\" data-en-label=\"R&amp;D\">R&amp;D for the future\n<picture class=\"bg\">\n<source srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_bg_mainvisual.webp 2800w\" sizes=\"1400px\" media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_bg_mainvisual_@2x.webp 750w\" sizes=\"375px\" media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_bg_mainvisual.webp\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<\/picture>\n<\/h1>\n\n<p class=\"m_text\">Nippon Shokubai is promoting R&amp;D and value propositions for the following selected markets utilizing our core competence. We will keep working on co-creation with society for a sustainable future by solving social issues and realizing a circular economy and carbon neutrality.\n<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"ancNav\">\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent01\">Water<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent08\">Batteries<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent04\">Health &amp; Medical<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent02\">Infrastructure<br>\/Housing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent09\">Displays<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent05\">Cosmetics<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent07\">Environmental<br>Purification<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent03\">Packaging<br>\/Printing<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent06\">Green Innovation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent11\">Hydrogen<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent10\">Semiconductors<br>\/Communications<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#ancContent12\">Circular Economy<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent01\">Water<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Materials for seawater desalination and wastewater treatment: Osmotic pressure generating agents<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_06.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_06.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_06_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 6:CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 12:RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 14:LIFE BELOW WATER\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">Osmotic pressure generating agent (Draw Solute or DS) is a key component of the Forward Osmosis (FO) system, a next-generation seawater desalination technology. The DS developed by our company extracts water from seawater through its high osmotic pressure within the FO system, and then separates it from water by heating, allowing for efficient freshwater extraction.<\/p>\n<div class=\"m_media\">\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p class=\"m_text\">By using factory waste heat and solar heat as the heat source for this process, it is possible to conserve energy, reduce CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions, and reduce costs when compared to existing seawater desalination technologies such as reverse osmosis (RO) systems. In addition, our company\u2019s DS can be used repeatedly, and has a reduced environmental impact. The FO system can also be applied to industrial wastewater treatment applications (Zero Liquid Discharge or ZLD). These factors have helped it to garner attention as a technology that can help meet increasingly stringent global wastewater regulations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img.webp\" alt=\"Heating Cooling\" width=\"240\" height=\"145\"><\/div>\n<!-- \/.m_media --><\/div>\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_02.webp\" alt=\"Image of a forward osmosis system\" width=\"561\" height=\"224\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<figcaption class=\"caption\">Image of a forward osmosis system <\/figcaption>\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent08\">Batteries<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Succeeded in the development of polymer electrolyte rechargeable at room temperature, contributing to improved performance of all-solid lithium-ion batteries<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 7:AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">We have succeeded in developing a high-performance polymer electrolyte membrane that dramatically improves the performance of all-solid lithium-ion batteries. All-solid-state batteries are known as next-generation batteries with long life and improved safety. However, polymer electrolytes show low lithium-ion conductivity, and therefore the batteries need to be heated to 50\u00b0C or higher for practical use. We developed high lithium-ion conduction technology for polymer electrolyte membranes. The new polymer electrolyte shows more than five times the lithium-ion conduction of conventional polyethylene oxide-based electrolytes, which allows for battery operation at room temperature. In comparison to conventional all-solid state batteries, the new polymer electrolyte membrane is expected to provide shorter charging times, higher energy densities, and fewer heat sources to heat batteries, which will allow for new applications of all-solid lithium-ion batteries.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_07.webp\" alt=\"Image of high-performance polymer electrolyte membrane\" width=\"600\" height=\"193\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent04\">Health &amp; Medical<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Contracted manufacturing of middle-molecular APIs<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_03.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_03.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_03_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 3: GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">Nippon Shokubai will support people\u2019s health and medical care through the supply of middle-molecular APIs and contribute to the future of society.<\/p>\n<p class=\"m_button\"><a href=\"\/en\/lp\/lifescience\/\"><span>Learn more from specific examples<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent02\">Infrastructure\/Housing<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) that extend the lives of concrete structures<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_11.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_11.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_11_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 11:SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 12:RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">Since ancient Rome, concrete has been a key material in building the public works and structures that underpin our infrastructure. However, given the vast amount of greenhouse gases (CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub>) emitted when producing its main ingredient\u2014cement\u2014we must find ways to reduce CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> in everything from constructing to maintaining structures and to realize a sound material-cycle society. Although SAPs have been studied as a means of making concrete more durable and thus extending its useful life, they are not often used because their rapid water absorption\u2014the quality that makes them so useful in disposable diapers and other industrial applications\u2014could compromise concrete fluidity.\u2003 We leveraged our polymer synthesis technology\u2014a core technology of Nippon Shokubai\u2014and knowledge of cement additives to develop an SAP specifically for concrete. The delayed-reaction SAP absorbs water at a controlled speed during concrete placement, improving the strength of the concrete, preventing neutralization, and reducing shrinkage. Thus, our new SAP is expected to extend the lives of concrete structures. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_03.webp\" alt=\"Illustration of Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) \" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent09\">Displays<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Developed dispersed silica nanoparticles, for hard coating of displays and more<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">We have developed the IX-3-NP series, a new grade of SEAHOSTAR\u2122, our silica particle product, in particle diameters of 100 nanometer or less. Micro materials of nano-level size are increasingly in demand along with the advancement of functions of electronic information materials, such as next-generation displays and semiconductors. To meet these needs, Nippon Shokubai has established optimal production conditions for nanoparticles based on its unique synthesis technologies and knowledge of inorganic oxides cultivated in its catalysis business. Silica nanoparticles are spherical amorphous silica particles, with diameters controllable between 10 and 100 nanometers. They display sharp particle size distribution and high purity. In addition, our advanced surface treatment technology allows them to have good dispersibility in diverse solvents and surface designs appropriate for customer compositions. With the ability to improve hardness and scratch resistance while maintaining high transparency, we expect these materials are to be applied not only for transparent, hard coating of optical films but also as materials to add hardness to various items, including nano fillers for semiconductor-related materials and dental materials.<\/p>\n<div class=\"m_columnImage\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<picture class=\"image\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_08.webp 600w\" sizes=\"300px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_08_@2x.webp\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_08.webp\" alt=\"Appearance of dispersed silica nanoparticles (20 nm) \" loading=\"lazy\">\n<\/picture>\n<figcaption class=\"caption\">Appearance of dispersed silica nanoparticles (20 nm) <\/figcaption>\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<picture class=\"image\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_09.webp 600w\" sizes=\"300px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_09_@2x.webp\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_09.webp\" alt=\"TEM image of silica nanoparticles (20 nm) \" loading=\"lazy\">\n<\/picture>\n<figcaption class=\"caption\">TEM image of silica nanoparticles (20 nm) <\/figcaption>\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<!-- \/.m_columnImage --><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent05\">Cosmetics<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Cosmetic ingredients that elicit beauty through the power of chemistry<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 14:LIFE BELOW WATER\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_15.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_15.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_15_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 15:LIFE ON LAND\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">We harness the power of chemistry to help people enjoy lifestyles of ease and comfort. We aim to give people the power to realize their ideals in their pursuit of aesthetic beauty.<\/p>\n<p class=\"m_button\"><a href=\"\/en\/products\/detail\/cosmetics\/\"><span>Learn more from specific examples<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent07\">Environmental Purification<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Wastewater treatment in lieu of waste incineration <br>Successfully developing maintenance-free systems with highly efficient, low-cost treatment capacity <\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_06.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_06.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_06_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 6:CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 12:RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_14_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 14:LIFE BELOW WATER\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">Catalytic wet air oxidation (CWAO) is a technology for treating organic matter and hazardous substances in wastewater very efficiently and with low running costs. Our proprietary solid catalysts trigger liquid-phase oxidation with air as the oxidant to neutralize highly toxic organic matter, organic nitrogen compounds, ammonia, sulfur compounds, and other hazardous substances into carbon dioxide, water, nitrogen, sulfates, and other harmless substances. CWAO is cleaner and eco-friendlier than incineration because it emits no exhaust that includes SOx, NOx, or dioxins and produces no incinerator ash or other secondary contaminants. Moreover, the energy yielded by oxidative decomposition can be reused, thermally isolating systems and reducing CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions.<br>\n  CWAO also facilitates efforts to further advance treatment in combination with biotreatment in later stages. It is an apt choice for treating wastewater that biotreatment fails to fully purify, specifically wastewater from places like chemical and semiconductor plants.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_06.webp\" alt=\"Illustration of Catalytic Wet Air Oxidation\" width=\"700\" height=\"386\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent03\">Packaging\/Printing<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">VEEA\u2122 and AOMA\u2122, reactive diluents for UV inkjet printing<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"m_media\">\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p class=\"m_text\">VEEA\u2122 is an acrylate monomer featuring excellent UV-curing performance and low viscosity, which is used as a reactive diluent for UV inkjet printing. It is particularly suitable for printing labels such as QR codes, and demand is expanding mainly in Europe and the U.S., where UV printing is prevailing due to tighter environmental regulations. AOMA\u2122 is also excellent as a diluent for UV\/EB curable materials because of its very low viscosity. And its polymers provide hardness, heat resistance, flexibility, and toughness. It was generally thought to be difficult to create materials in which these characteristics coexist. AOMA\u2122 adds toughness and heat-resistance to formed objects produced by UV-curable 3D printers. In the future, we expect expansion of its use for a variety of applications, such as in coating materials for flexible devices and adhesives for bonding dissimilar materials.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_04.webp\" alt=\"3d printer\" width=\"380\" height=\"290\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<figcaption class=\"caption\">3D printer<\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n<!-- \/.m_media --><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent06\">Green Innovation<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Acrylic acid\/superabsorbent polymer made from biomass raw materials<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 12:RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">Acrylic acid is widely used as a raw material for various products, including superabsorbent polymers (the water-absorbing component of disposable diapers) and acrylic esters (the main ingredients and additives in paints and adhesives). However, the final products\u2014disposable diapers and so on\u2014 become a source of CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions when disposed of and incinerated after use. Therefore, Nippon Shokubai is exploring the use of biomass-derived propylene instead of petroleum-derived propylene, and is developing new manufacturing methods for acrylic acid from biomass feedstocks. Since biomass absorbs and fixes CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub>  in the air through photosynthesis, CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub>  emitted during incineration can be regarded as carbon neutral, leading to a reduction in CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions. We are working on the scale-up of manufacturing processes and investigating market potentials aiming to start the commercial production of biomass-derived acrylic acid earlier before 2030. We will also expand its use to the production of superabsorbent polymer and acrylic esters, and aim to reduce CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions throughout the lifecycles of our customers\u2019 final products.<\/p>\n<picture class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_05.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"600px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_05_@2x.webp\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_05.webp\" alt=\"Illustration of Carbon Neutrality\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/picture>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent11\">Hydrogen<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Separator for alkaline water electrolysis, contributing to the spread of green hydrogen and reduction of CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 7:AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">The separator for alkaline water electrolysis is used for alkaline water electrolysis<sup>*1<\/sup> , a technique seeing interest as a production method for green hydrogen<sup>*2<\/sup> . Hydrogen energy does not emit CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> when used and therefore its applications have been expanding in fuel cells for automobiles and houses. Separators have a significant impact on hydrogen production efficiency and therefore must have two characteristics: high electrolysis efficiency (low ionic resistance) and preventing cross leaking of the generated hydrogen and oxygen (high gas barrier property). Under the severe conditions of high-temperature, high-concentration alkaline water, the number of both practical and durable separators is limited. However, Nippon Shokubai has succeeded in developing a product that ensures both of these characteristics by applying our unique organic\/inorganic hybrid technology and sheet manufacturing technology. This separator is expected to have several advantages, including reduction of power consumption and improvement of the purity of the hydrogen produced, thereby contributing to the spread of green hydrogen and reductions in CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"m_notesList s_mark_small\">\n<li><span class=\"mark\">*1<\/span>Method of water electrolysis using strong alkaline solution, such as potassium hydroxide<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"mark\">*2<\/span>Hydrogen produced using renewable energy with reduced CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub> emissions<\/li>\n<!-- \/.m_notesList --><\/ul>\n<picture class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_12.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"600px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_12_@2x.webp\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_12.webp\" alt=\"Diagram of alkaline water electrolysis\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/picture>\n\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Ammonia cracking catalysts contributing to a hydrogen and ammonia society\n<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 7:AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n\n<p class=\"m_text\"> Amid the global trend of decarbonization, hydrogen and ammonia are attracting attention as next-generation energy sources that do not generate carbon dioxide (CO<sub class=\"m_sub\">2<\/sub>) during combustion. Ammonia has a high hydrogen density per volume and can be transported over long distances, so it is also expected to be a hydrogen carrier.<br>Ammonia cracking catalysts are extremely important when ammonia is used as a hydrogen carrier in fuel cells and combustors, because ammonia must be decomposed to extract hydrogen.<br>Nippon Shokubai has developed 2 types of ammonia cracking catalysts (External heating Type, Auto-thermal Type) to accommodate various applications. The external heating type can extract hydrogen without waste by external heating. The auto-thermal cracking can build a simple system that does not require external heating because the catalyst oxidizes a part of ammonia with oxygen and the generated heat can decompose ammonia.<br>We aim to commercialize these ammonia cracking catalysts around 2030, and are working toward achieving carbon neutrality in 2050.<\/p>\n<picture class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/RD-for-the-future_en.jpg\" sizes=\"600px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/RD-for-the-future_en.jpg\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/RD-for-the-future_en.jpg\" alt=\"Diagram of alkaline water electrolysis\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/picture>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent10\">Semiconductors\/Communications<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">Mass production of graphene oxide, a new nanocarbon material with high thermal conductivity that will contribute to the spread of 5G communication<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_07_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 7:AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_09_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 9:INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, AND INFRASTRUCTURE\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">We have been using our unique technologies for the development of graphene oxide, a novel nanocarbon material that is attracting attention. As part of our efforts to commercialize the material, we are advancing proposals for customers and developing mass production technologies. Graphene oxide has a sheet structure in layer approximately one nanometer thick. It is made by oxidizing graphite with a strong oxidant while increasing the interplanar spacing between the layers and then exfoliating thin flakes. Since our graphen oxide is dispersible in water and some organic solvents, it has been well received for its ease with which it can be used in coatings for films and kneading into resin. Possible future applications include parts related to 5G (5th generation communication), as well as other materials that require strong heat dissipation capabilities, such as materials for automobiles and batteries.<\/p>\n<div class=\"m_columnImage\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<picture class=\"image\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_10.webp 600w\" sizes=\"300px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_10_@2x.webp\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_10.webp\" alt=\"AFM image of graphene oxide\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<\/picture>\n<figcaption class=\"caption\">AFM image of graphene oxide<\/figcaption>\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<figure class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<picture class=\"image\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_11.webp 600w\" sizes=\"300px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_11_@2x.webp\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/ja\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_11.webp\" alt=\"Appearance of graphene oxide dispersion \" loading=\"lazy\">\n<\/picture>\n<figcaption class=\"caption\">Appearance of graphene oxide dispersion<\/figcaption>\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<!-- \/.m_columnImage --><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"m_borderHeading\" id=\"ancContent12\">Circular Economy<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"m_textHeading\">A new priority: Reducing waste by shifting from disposable to recyclable<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"sdgsImage\">\n<ul>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_12_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 12:RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<li><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13.webp 160w, \/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_sdgs_13_@2x.webp 130w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 769px) 80px, (max-width: 768px) 65px\" alt=\"SDGs 13:CLIMATE ACTION\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"m_text\">Disposable diapers are mainly composed of pulp, plastic, and SAP. \nTotal Care System has been recycling a part of used diapers as the raw materials for other products or for other applications. The recycled pulp has been effectively used as raw materials for building materials (e.g., exterior and interior wall materials) and the plastic has been thermally recycled as solid fuel. \n Nippon Shokubai began investigating recycling technology for SAPs, which had not previously been put into practice, and succeeded in the development of new recycling technologies jointly with Livedo Corporation, a major manufacturer of adult diapers, and Total Care System.<br>\nThere are two key parts of the technologies:<br>\n1. Technology for increasing the recovery rate of pulp by processing SAP swollen with urine to improve separation from pulp. <br>\n2. Technology for collecting SAP with minimum performance degradation while saving energy and preserving the quality of water in rivers and other bodies of water.<br>\nThese technologies are applicable to all SAPs produced by Nippon Shokubai, as well as to various SAPs from other companies. We will improve these technologies to a practical level, advance the development of easy-to-recycle materials and treatment technology, and work with our two partner companies to build a recycling system.<\/p>\n<picture class=\"m_liquidImage\">\n<source media=\"(min-width: 769px)\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_13.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"600px\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<source media=\"(max-width: 768px)\" srcset=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_13_@2x.webp\" type=\"image\/webp\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/en\/images\/rd\/future\/index_img_13.webp\" alt=\"Illustration of Recycling of disposable diapers\" loading=\"lazy\">\n<!-- \/.m_liquidImage --><\/picture>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>R&amp;D for the future Nippon Shokubai is promoting R&amp;D and value propositions for the following selected  [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":4312,"menu_order":32,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"pagetmpl-html.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5217","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"aioseo_notices":[],"acf":{"page_class":"rdFuture","show_h1":false,"original_js":"","is_hide_navi":false,"show_related_contents":"html","related_contents_html":"<aside class=\"m_similarList\">\r\n<h2 class=\"heading\">Related contents<\/h2>\r\n<ul class=\"m_indexList03 s_bg\">\r\n<li>\r\n<div class=\"primary\">\r\n<b class=\"label\"><a href=\"\/en\/rd\/technology\/\">Core Technologies of Nippon Shokubai<\/a><\/b>\r\n<p>This page contains information about our core technologies.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/li>\r\n\r\n<li>\r\n<div class=\"primary\">\r\n<b class=\"label\"><a href=\"\/en\/ir\/vision\/\">Management Policies\/Plans<\/a><\/b>\r\n<p>This page contains information about our management policies and business plans.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/li>\r\n\r\n<li>\r\n<div class=\"primary\">\r\n<b class=\"label\"><a href=\"\/en\/products\/\">Search by end use<\/a><\/b>\r\n<p>Our products are categorized by end use.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/li>\r\n\r\n<li>\r\n<div class=\"primary\">\r\n<b class=\"label\"><a href=\"\/en\/inquiry\/\">Contact<\/a><\/b>\r\n<p>This page contains information about inquiries about product and company information.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<!-- \/.m_indexList03 --><\/ul>\r\n<!-- \/.m_similarList --><\/aside>","is_hide_page":false,"show_hreflang":["ja"]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5217"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5217"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5217\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19014,"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5217\/revisions\/19014"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4312"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shokubai.co.jp\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5217"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}