Kenji Shimokawa

Title: Kenji Shimokawa: Innovator in Organic Chemistry

Introduction

Kenji Shimokawa is a prominent inventor based in Yokohama, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the area of carboxylic acid production. With a total of 5 patents to his name, Shimokawa's work has had a notable impact on industrial processes.

Latest Patents

Shimokawa's latest patents include a process for preparing organic carboxylic acid. In this innovative production step, alcohol is reacted with carbon monoxide in a reaction solvent, utilizing a rhodium-containing solid catalyst. This catalyst is obtained by immobilizing rhodium in an insoluble carrier that contains a pyridine ring in its resin structure, along with an alkyl iodide. The resulting reaction product has a water content of 0.5 to 10% by weight. In the subsequent removal step, an organic carboxylic acid is separated and recovered from the reaction product. The recovered acid is then contacted with another insoluble carrier to remove any iodide present.

Another significant patent involves a methanol carbonylation catalyst. This catalyst features a rhodium complex supported on a porous, cross-linked vinylpyridine resin. The resin has specific characteristics, including a cross-linking degree of 30-60%, a pore volume of 0.1-0.4 ml/g, and an average pore diameter of 20-100 nm. The preparation method includes contacting the resin with an aqueous solution containing rhodium ion, followed by treatment with carbon monoxide and an alkyl iodide in an organic solvent. This process ultimately leads to the production of acetic acid by reacting carbon monoxide with methanol under controlled conditions.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Kenji Shimokawa has worked with notable companies such as Chiyoda Corporation and NKK Corporation. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to refine his expertise in organic chemistry and catalysis.

Collaborations

Shimokawa has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Yoshimi Shiroto and Takeshi Minami. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his research and the successful development of his patented technologies.

Conclusion

Kenji Shimokawa is a distinguished inventor whose work in organic chemistry has led to innovative processes and catalysts. His contributions