Hirofumi Shibata

Title: Hirofumi Shibata: Innovator in Water Absorbent Resin Technology

Introduction

Hirofumi Shibata is a prominent inventor based in Himeji, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of polymer chemistry, particularly in the development of water absorbent resin technologies. With a total of 13 patents to his name, Shibata's work has had a substantial impact on various industrial applications.

Latest Patents

One of Shibata's latest patents focuses on a method for producing polyacrylic acid (salt)-based water absorbent resin powder. This innovation addresses the challenge of reducing out-of-spec products after surface crosslinking, especially when using an alkylene carbonate compound as a surface crosslinking agent. The process emphasizes the importance of controlling air temperature and minimizing the production of ethylene glycol as a byproduct. The method involves storing a non-polymerized organic compound in a heated state, mixing it with other compounds at a predetermined ratio, and subsequently transforming the mixture into a water absorbent resin powder.

Career Highlights

Hirofumi Shibata has dedicated his career to advancing polymer technology. His work at Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd. has positioned him as a key figure in the development of innovative materials. His expertise in polymer chemistry has led to numerous advancements in the production processes of water absorbent resins.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Shibata has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Kazushi Torii and Yoshio Irie. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and the sharing of ideas.

Conclusion

Hirofumi Shibata's contributions to the field of water absorbent resin technology exemplify the importance of innovation in polymer chemistry. His patents and collaborative efforts continue to influence the industry, showcasing the potential for advancements in material science.