Toshiaki Sugita

Title: Toshiaki Sugita: Innovator in Expandable Polymer Manufacturing

Introduction

Toshiaki Sugita is a distinguished inventor based in Akashi, Japan, known for his contributions to the field of polymer technology. With a total of four patents to his name, Sugita's work primarily focuses on the manufacturing of expandable styrene and thermoplastic polymer particles, showcasing his innovative approach to enhancing their properties and applications.

Latest Patents

Among his most recent inventions is the "Method for manufacturing expandable styrene type polymer particles." This patent introduces a unique technique that involves adding a styrene type monomer to styrene type polymer seed particles. The particles are suspended in an aqueous dispersing medium and polymerized while being absorbed, altering the structure of the particles. The invention emphasizes using specific styrene type polymer particles whose weight-average molecular weight is a fraction of the resulting polymer particles, leading to enhanced moldability and the production of high-strength, aesthetically pleasing foamed articles.

Additionally, Sugita has developed a "Method for producing expandable thermoplastic polymer particles." This method outlines a process where polymerization occurs by introducing a polymerizable monomer to uniformly sized thermoplastic polymer particles suspended in water. The introduction of an amide compound during polymerization allows for the production of expandable thermoplastic particles with fine and uniform cells, making them ideal for immediate expansion post-production.

Career Highlights

Toshiaki Sugita has spent a significant portion of his career at Kanegafuchi Kagaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, where he has made substantial advancements in polymer technology. His patents reflect a deep understanding of material science and a commitment to elevating manufacturing processes and product quality in polymers.

Collaborations

Working closely with notable colleagues such as Kiyoshi Mori and Hiromitsu Tachibana, Sugita has been able to leverage diverse expertise to advance his research and innovations in polymer manufacturing. These collaborations have not only fostered a dynamic work environment but also contributed to significant developments in expandable polymer technologies.

Conclusion

Toshiaki Sugita's work in the field of expandable polymer particles demonstrates a remarkable blend of creativity and technical proficiency. With his innovative patent contributions, he has significantly influenced the manufacturing processes of expandable polymers, highlighting the importance of continuous innovation in material science. As he continues his work, Sugita remains a pivotal figure in advancing technology for enhanced polymer applications.