In the 21st century, the issues of energy, resources, and the environment are critical challenges for not only Japan but also the entire globe. To address these issues, the Matsukata Laboratory carries out research on science and engineering pertaining to catalytic chemistry, membrane separation engineering, and the chemistry of energy conversion. The Laboratory lays particular emphasis on the research of the synthesis and catalytic applications of micro- and mesoporous materials, their use as a separation membrane, and the development of purification processes, including for contaminated soil and effluent. 

■Research on micro- and mesoporous materials

Zeolites, which are crystalline aluminosilicates that have pores of less than 1nm, have played vital roles in petrochemistry and catalytic chemistry. Zeolites have been synthesized conventionally by the method of precipitating crystals from a water solution (hydrothermal synthesis method). Meanwhile, we propose, and are researching, a new synthesis method called the dry-gel conversion (DGC) method. The Laboratory furthermore carries out research with the goal of developing a technique for creating thinner zeolite membranes as well as developing their applications as a separation membrane.      

 

■Research on micro- and mesoporous materials

A precursor gel is once dried, and this is then crystallized in the vapor phase. The use of the DGC method allows the preparation of zeolites with structures and compositions not obtainable by the hydrothermal synthesis method. The Laboratory conducts research on the crystallization mechanism of zeolite by the DGC method. Using the DGC or hydrothermal synthesis method, the Laboratory searches for microporous crystals with new structures, assesses catalyst characteristics, ascertains the crystallization process, and develops a method for inserting heteroelements into the crystal skeleton.    

■Awards: The Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan (SCEJ) Encouragement Award; The Japan Petroleum Institute Award for Encouragement of Research and Development; Catalysis Society of Japan Encouragement Award, The Japan Institute of Energy (JIE) Progress Award, etc.

■Affiliation: The Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan; The Japan Institute of Energy; The Japan Petroleum Institute; Japan Association of Zeolite; Japan Society of Energy and Resources; Catalysis Society of Japan; American Chemical Society; The Chemical Society of Japan; Materials Research Society; American Institute of Chemical Engineers; The Membrane Society of Japan