Naoki Nakatsugawa

Title: Naoki Nakatsugawa: Innovator in Methane Fermentation

Introduction

Naoki Nakatsugawa is a prominent inventor based in Saitama-ken, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in the area of methane fermentation. With a total of three patents to his name, Nakatsugawa's work focuses on enhancing the efficiency of methane production through innovative microbial methods.

Latest Patents

One of Nakatsugawa's latest patents involves extremely halophilic methanogenic archaebacteria, specifically Methanohalococcus alcaliphilum. This microorganism has an optimum growth sodium chloride concentration ranging from about 2.5 to about 3 moles. The halophilic and alkalophilic properties of this bacteria allow for methane fermentation methods to be conducted at alkaline pH levels, high salt concentrations, and low temperatures. Another significant patent is for the alkalophilic methanogen Methanosarcina alcaliphilum, which thrives in an optimum growth pH range of about 8.1 to 8.7. This strain is particularly valuable for treating solid waste and wastewater, as it can rapidly increase bacterial concentration in reactors, allowing for compact reactor designs.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Nakatsugawa has worked with the Research Development Corporation of Japan, where he has contributed to various innovative projects. His expertise in microbial biotechnology has positioned him as a key figure in the advancement of methane fermentation technologies.

Collaborations

Nakatsugawa has collaborated with notable individuals in his field, including Koki Horikoshi. Their joint efforts have furthered research and development in methane fermentation processes.

Conclusion

Naoki Nakatsugawa's innovative work in the field of methane fermentation showcases his dedication to advancing biotechnology. His patents reflect a commitment to improving efficiency in waste treatment and methane production.