At the Chemical Systems Engineering Laboratory, we conduct research in a way “seeing the forest for the trees, and the trees for the forests.” We understand the forest well and plant and grow trees for that forest. In addition, by looking at the trees grown from seeds, we also propose and design what kind of forest can be created. As an example, we will introduce the development of a new hydrogen purification system for fuel cells. As a new system (forest), we proposed a method to selectively methaneize and remove carbon monoxide and developed a catalyst material (tree) to realize this system. By working on both the design of the hydrogen purification system and the development of catalytic materials for the elemental technologies, we were able to efficiently approach the realization of the new system.
On the other hand, in the material development (tree) of the element, you may come across unexpected discoveries. In the above-mentioned development of catalysts for selective CO methanation, a material (tree) that methaneizes coexisting carbon dioxide with 100% selectivity was found. Although it is a “bad catalyst” from the original purpose, it is an “extremely excellent catalyst” as a carbon dioxide methanation catalyst that has been attracting attention in recent years. It is a material that greatly contributes to the global carbon cycle system (forest). In this way, by accurately grasping and understanding the performance of substances and thinking about the development of the system with flexible thinking, there is great potential for developing new systems in front of you. Let’s proceed with research toward a zero-carbon society together.