Fundamental Research
【Introduction - Basic Research Department】
Our research department conducts joint researches with the Institute of Industrial Science R&D centers and university corporation laboratories on renewable natural energy (geothermal, cogeneration, fuel cells) in an effort to achieve a low carbon environmental society for the development of a new generation of world class products.
Recycled Waste Heat Power Generation
There is a variety of untapped heat in our environment. We are currently developing technology which will convert variable temperature changes into electricity (thermoelectric power) to utilize as electricity.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Research
We are reseraching power generation from dissipated heat and exhaust gas using solid oxide fuel cells. Solid oxide fuel cell is a power source that operates in high temperatures, but as a means of power, hydrogen can be used as well as straight hydrocarbon fuel such as methane and propane gasses. With these characteristics, we are developing fuel cells that can use waste or exhaust gas to generate power.
Hydrogen Detection Technology Research
In order to safely celebrate the new era of hydrogen energy as the ultimate renewable energy source, we are developing technology for the detection of hydrogen. Our hydrogen detection technology is different from commonly used hydrogen detection methodology. We trim down hydrogen storage alloy film to a nano micron level so it reacts to hydrogen by turning transparent. This allows us to make the hydrogen visible without requiring any external energy. This color changing trait (variant permeability in response to hydrogen) allows us to detect hydrogen using transmission or reflection of light.
