Keiichi Kawata

Title: Innovations of Keiichi Kawata in Carbon Nanotube Technology

Introduction

Keiichi Kawata is a prominent inventor based in Tokyo, Japan, known for his significant contributions to the field of carbon nanotube technology. With a total of three patents to his name, Kawata has developed innovative methods and apparatuses that enhance the production and alignment of carbon nanotubes, which are crucial for various applications in materials science and nanotechnology.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is a production method of carbon nanotube assembly. This method involves growing a carbon nanotube assembly on a substrate that has a catalyst on its surface. The process includes a formation unit that reduces the catalyst on the substrate and a growth unit that grows the carbon nanotube assembly. Notably, the substrate is continuously conveyed using conveyance units that operate through screw rotations. The formation and growth steps are conducted in separate gas environments to prevent mixing, ensuring a more efficient production process.

Another significant patent is an apparatus for producing aligned carbon nanotube aggregates. This apparatus is designed to grow aligned carbon nanotube aggregates by surrounding a catalyst on a substrate with a reducing gas environment. The apparatus also involves heating either the catalyst or the reducing gas, as well as surrounding the catalyst with a raw material gas environment. The components exposed to these gases are made from heat-resistant alloys and are plated with molten aluminum, enhancing their durability and performance.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Keiichi Kawata has worked with notable organizations such as Zeon Corporation and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology. His work in these institutions has allowed him to advance his research and contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies in the field of nanomaterials.

Collaborations

Kawata has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Akiyoshi Shibuya and Kenji Hata. These collaborations have fostered a productive environment for innovation and have led to significant advancements in carbon nanotube research.

Conclusion

Keiichi Kawata's innovative work in carbon nanotube technology has made a lasting impact on the field. His patents reflect a deep understanding of the complexities involved in nanotube production and alignment, showcasing his role as a leading inventor in this area.