Elucidation of the Origin and Mechanism of Electrochemical Reactions in Nanospaces
In nanospaces with pore diameters of 1 nm or less, peculiar phenomena occur. For example, crystals requiring 2 GPa form within these nanospaces (standard atmospheric pressure is 101.325 kPa). Furthermore, constraints on the arrangement structure of water molecules also arise, resulting in conditions entirely different from those under atmospheric pressure. Fundamentally, such nanospaces are considered unsuitable for reactions because reactants and products cannot diffuse easily. However, the Takimoto Laboratory has discovered that specific electrochemical reactions (zero overpotential reactions) proceed in nanospaces and aims to elucidate their origin and mechanism. Ultimately, we seek to develop advanced material conversion technologies and overcome environmental and energy challenges through technological innovation.
Development of Water Purification Technologies
Okinawa Prefecture is a resort destination surrounded by exceptionally clear seas and rich ecosystems, including coral reefs. Seawater and rivers contain impurities resulting from human activities. Some of these substances pose environmental and health risks. Removing these impurities holds potential for contributing to environmental solutions. The Takimoto Laboratory conducts research on applying nanospaces and nanosheets to water purification technologies. This research aims to overcome environmental and ecological challenges in Okinawa Prefecture.
Development of Electrodes for Aqueous Secondary Batteries
We are developing electrode materials for storage batteries utilizing nanoscale spaces. Our material development efforts aim to significantly reduce charging times while also increasing the amount of energy that can be stored. Key points in electrode development include spatial design for efficient use of nanoscale space and determining how to incorporate energy-storage organic molecules into this nanoscale space. Developed electrodes demonstrate shorter charge/discharge times compared to conventional organic electrode materials. Furthermore, they exhibit no dissolution degradation—a fundamental issue with organic electrodes—and astonishing performance with 100% reaction efficiency.
Development of 2.5-Dimensional Nanomaterials
Nanosheets, represented by graphene, are known for their high reaction efficiency and activity due to their large specific surface area. However, their flexible structure causes the sheets to bend, resulting in lower-than-expected efficiency. In Takimoto Prefecture, we are developing a synthesis method using high-specific-surface-area nanocarbon materials as templates to address this challenge. Specifically, we aim to synthesize materials where the nanosheets (2D) form a three-dimensional (3D) structure without folding. We refer to this as ‘2D+3D=2.5D’. We are conducting synthesis experiments ranging from fundamental to applied research, aiming to advance the synthesis principles and methods.
