To create new products with high added value, we are conducting research and development on high-accuracy, high-efficiency, resource-saving manufacturing technologies through micro-/nanometer-level material removal, deformation, and property control. Our recent research focuses include ultraprecise mechanical fabrication, micro-nano forming/imprinting, electrical machining, laser machining, laser Raman spectroscopy, and laser defect repair.

Since 2002, we have developed a new functional elastomer of “Electro-Adhesive Gel (EAG)” whose adhesive property at the surface can be changed according to applied electric field. The high-performance EAG is possible to be applied to the brake, clutch and fixture mechanisms. We will exhibit the practical application devices in our booth.

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) films have attractive properties such as low friction coefficient and high gas barrier, and been used in many areas. In fact, there are some industrial applications to packaging and automobile parts etc. Here, we show DLC-coated medical device which contains fluorine (F-DLC) with antithrombogenicity property.

A high-sensitivity magnetic field sensor with nanometer resolution has been developed using impurities doped in a high-purity diamond. Our aim is to realize a bioimaging system that can replace the present MRI.

Novel methods for large-scale and fine synthesis of metal nanoclusters, super-small particles of sub-bulk size which have unusual and various functionalities, have been developed. Among them we display: 1. High power magnetron sputtering for metal nanoclusters; 2. Micro-fluid reactor for liquid phase synthesis of nanoclusters protected by organic ligands.

There are many surface modification treatments performed for metals used for machines and constructions aiming to functionalize their properties. Properties needing to be improved are fatigue strength, corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and more. Here are some of the new surface modification processes developed recently, targeting the improvement of such properties.

Antifouling coating film with superhydrophobic and superoleophobic properties was fabricated by a simple method. The film cannot be soiled by liquids that have various surface energies including cooking oil, soy sauce, mayonnaise, and ketchup. And the transparency and durability of the coating film were improved for practical use.