Shuji Ebata

Title: Innovations by Shuji Ebata in Catalysts and Chemical Processes

Introduction

Shuji Ebata, an accomplished inventor based in Niigata, Japan, has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering with a total of 25 patents to his name. His innovative work primarily focuses on catalysts and processes for producing various chemical compounds, particularly aromatic amines and nitrile compounds. Ebata works at Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc., where he collaborates with other noteworthy inventors in the field.

Latest Patents

Among Shuji Ebata's latest patents is one that details catalysts and processes for producing aromatic amines. The invention involves two main catalysts: the first consists of a metal catalyst component, including nickel (Ni) and/or cobalt (Co), combined with a specific amount of zirconia as a carrier component. This catalyst is prepared through a process involving drying, calcining, and forming a precipitate, which is created by adding an aqueous solution containing soluble salts of both components to an aqueous alkali solution. The second catalyst also combines a metal catalyst component with the carrier, but differs in preparation, as it involves filtering a precipitate formed in a similar aqueous solution method without drying it before drying and calcining the final product. These catalysts boast durability, preventing breaking due to rapid generation of methane and evaporation of liquid ammonia during reactivation, thus allowing for long-term use.

Another notable patent describes a process for producing nitrile compounds. This method involves introducing a carbon ring or heterocyclic compound with organic substituents along with ammonia and air into a reactor, where the introduction leads to a reaction in the presence of a catalyst. During this process, a residual gas obtained from the separated nitrile compound is recycled back into the reactor, constituting 10 to 60% by volume of the fresh raw materials. Additionally, the molar ratio of molecular oxygen to the organic substituent is maintained between 1.5 to 7, enabling the production of nitrile compounds at high yields under advantageous conditions.

Career Highlights

Shuji Ebata’s career at Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. has been marked by his groundbreaking work on catalytic processes and his commitment to innovation. His expertise has significantly contributed to the company's advancements in chemical production methods, making them more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Collaborations

Ebata works alongside talented colleagues, including Hirofumi Higuchi and Koichi Kida, who share a commitment to advancing research in chemical engineering. Their combined expertise enhances the innovation potential within their field and contributes to the progress of their respective projects.

Conclusion

Shuji Ebata stands out as a leading inventor in the field of chemical engineering, diligently working to enhance catalyst efficiency and chemical processes. With numerous patents to his name, he continues to make significant strides at Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc., paving the way for future innovations that could revolutionize the industry. Through his collaborations and groundbreaking inventions, Ebata exemplifies the spirit of innovation that drives the chemical engineering field forward.