Shinichi Towata

Title: Innovations of Shinichi Towata in Hydrogen Storage Technology

Introduction

Shinichi Towata is a notable inventor based in Aichi, Japan, recognized for his contributions to hydrogen storage technology. With a total of 5 patents, Towata has made significant advancements in methods for manufacturing hydrogen storage tanks and improving battery technology.

Latest Patents

Towata's latest patents include innovative methods for manufacturing hydrogen storage tanks. These methods involve disposing of a substantially solid block of hydrogen-absorbing alloy within an activation vessel. Hydrogen gas is introduced into the activation vessel under specific conditions that allow the hydrogen-absorbing alloy to absorb hydrogen and break apart. This process results in a substantially powdered hydrogen-absorbing alloy, which can be transferred to a hydrogen storage tank while minimizing exposure to oxygen. The hydrogen-absorbing alloy is typically ingot-shaped when introduced into the activation vessel. Additionally, the powdered alloy is produced by continuously breaking the ingot-shaped alloy due to volume expansion caused by hydrogen absorption. The hydrogen gas contacts the alloy under relatively high-pressure and low-temperature conditions.

Another significant patent involves the development of an electrode for a sealed nickel/metal hydride battery. This invention aims to suppress the decrease in charging reserve of a hydrogen-storage alloy electrode and manage the internal pressure of the battery. The hydrogen-storage alloy electrode is formed using a binder made from an organic polymer material containing ether linkages, such as polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide, or polybutylene oxide. This material is hydrophilic and exhibits higher oxidation resistance compared to conventional materials, significantly reducing hydrogen production due to oxidation and decomposition.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Shinichi Towata has worked with prominent companies, including Toyota Central R&D Labs, Inc. and Ube Industries, Inc. His work in these organizations has contributed to the advancement of hydrogen storage technologies and battery systems.

Collaborations

Towata has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Senichi Yamada and Hajime Ikuno, to further enhance his research and development efforts in the field of hydrogen storage and battery technology.

Conclusion

Shinichi Towata's innovative work in hydrogen storage technology and battery systems has positioned him as a key figure in the field. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions, making significant contributions to the industry.