Hiroki Konno

Introduction

Hiroki Konno is an accomplished inventor based in Annaka, Japan, known for his significant contributions to silicone and fluororubber technologies. With a remarkable portfolio of five patents to his name, Konno has made strides in the field of chemical engineering, particularly in the improvement of vulcanization activators and the preparation of graft copolymers.

Latest Patents

Konno's latest innovations include a patented modified silicone vulcanization activator. This invention features a modified organopolysiloxane comprising specific silicon-oxygen units where R¹ can be a hydrogen atom or a monovalent hydrocarbon group with 1 to 12 carbon atoms. This innovative activator plays a crucial role in enhancing the vulcanization process of fluorocarbon rubber or fluorocarbon/silicone rubber compositions, particularly when using peroxide vulcanizing agents. The preparation process involves reacting triallyl isocyanurate or its derivatives with dimethylchlorosilane in the presence of a platinum catalyst, offering a novel approach to improve vulcanization efficacy.

Another notable patent involves the process for preparing a fluororubber graft copolymer. This process outlines the graft-copolymerization step of fluororubber with organosilicon compounds possessing specific unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon groups. This innovative method significantly advances the field of rubber technology, offering enhanced performance characteristics for fluororubber applications.

Career Highlights

Hiroki Konno has spent a significant part of his career at Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., where he has driven numerous projects focused on advanced materials. His expertise in chemical synthesis and materials engineering has contributed to the continuous innovation at the company, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of silicone and rubber technologies.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Konno has collaborated with fellow researchers, including Yasushi Yamamoto and Hirofumi Kishita. These partnerships have fostered an environment of creative problem-solving and shared knowledge, allowing for the successful development of pioneering technologies in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Hiroki Konno stands as a notable figure in the realm of innovations in silicone and fluororubber technologies. His patented inventions and collaborative efforts within Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. highlight his commitment to advancing material science and engineering. Through his work, Konno continues to impact the industry, paving the way for future advancements in chemical applications.