| POLYMERS Vol.63 No.1 |
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COVER STORY
Rising Stars Ⅱ |
| COVER STORY: Topics and Products Young Leaders Ⅱ |
| Soft but Inflowable Matters | Kenji URAYAMA |
| <Abstract> I have launched my own group at Kyoto Institute of Technology in 2013. This article summarizes the recent research topics and shows the future directions of my research. The research topics include the results of biaxial tensile behavior of soft gels, rheological properties of topologically controlled polymer networks, and stimulusresponse behavior of liquid crystal elastomers. Keywords: Elastomers / Gels / Rubber Elasticity / Rheology / Liquid Crystal Elastomers / Soft Actuators |
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| Toward Realization of the Research That can be Easily Recognized as My Works | Toshiyuki OYAMA |
| <Abstract> Last April, I started managing a laboratory by myself. My present research areas are the following: 1. Preparation of polypeptides with unique higher-order structure and functions based on their monomer sequences by using dynamic side-chain exchange, 2. Preparation of novel photosensitive polymers using polymer reactions during the development process (reaction development patterning), 3. Development of high-performance thermosetting resins including toughening of thermosetting resins by in situ prepared modifier polymers, preparation of encapsulating resins for next-generation power devices, and utilization of ligins for thermosetting resins, 4. Preparation of membranes for polymer electrolyte fuel cell that work under unhumidified condition. Through development of present research and realization of other new ideas, I would like to realize the research that can be easily recognized as my own works. Keywords: Polypeptide / Dynamic Covalent Bond / Photosensitive Polyimide / Photosensitive Engineering Plastics / Reaction Development Patterning / Thermosetting Resin / Toughening / Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell |
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| Managing a Writhing DNA | Kensuke OSADA |
| <Abstract> Escaping inherent defense systems, delivery systems for DNA must access the nucleus of the targeted cells and lead to protein expression in order to pursue potential gene therapy. We have been developing such gene delivery systems by clarifying underlying principles of structure formation and been directing them to demonstrate the best biological performance. Here I would like to introduce examples of our advances and current interests together with future perspectives. Keywords: Gene Delivery System / DNA Folding / Polyion Complex / Polymeric Micelle |
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| Contribution to Environment by Tire Materials Research | Hiroyuki KISHIMOTO |
| <Abstract> The biggest issue in tire materials research is a decrease in rolling resistance due to positive contributions to the environment. Materials in the tire rubber form the temporal-spatial hierarchical structure in a wide range of scales. This hierarchical structure relates to the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of tires. In order to improve the tire properties, we carry out research and development of tire materials using the synchrotron radiation and neutron techniques. In this article, we introduce a dynamics study in rubber with quasi elastic neutron scattering. Keywords: Syncrotron Radiation / Neutron / Rubber / Dynamics |
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| The Frontier of Overseas Business with R&D Experiences | Motoki KYO |
| <Abstract> When I joined Toyobo Co., Ltd. in 1993, I set a personal goal that I would develop my original product. Through my research in Kyoto University, University of Wisconsin and Toyobo, we could develop SPR imaging instruments. Even though its business performance was so small, I could feel that my dream had come true. I experienced negotiations and works with American bio-venture companies. After the project ended, my task has been changed from R&D to planning, then to overseas business. My goal has reset to “Increasing business of products that I am engaged with.” Now I am focusing on selling in-vitro diagnostics devices, especially urine sediment analyzers. My actual jobs are far from R&D, but require my experiences in R&D. I am just a company employee, therefore I am not sure what and where I will work in the future. But I would like to be flexible and absorb a lot of things. I believe that my future is becoming more exciting. Keywords: SPR Imaging / In-Vitro Diagnostics Device / Urine Sediment |
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| Development of Functional Materials based on the Understanding of Surface and Interface | Michinari KOHRI |
| <Abstract> I established my small research group in 2008. My research interests are focused on studies of functional polymeric materials that are designed and synthesized based on the surface and interface control. In this essay, I would like to describe current works, future plans, and research policies. Keywords: Functional Polymers / Polymer Particles / Enzymatic Synthesis / Surface Modification |
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| For the Students | Toshifumi SATOH |
| <Abstract> I have launched a new laboratory in the Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University in April 2013. My research topics are 1) precise polymerization of cyclic ester, cyclic carbonate, epoxide, metacrylate, acrylate, and isocyanate using air-free technique, 2) precise synthesis of macromolecular architecture such as star polymer, cyclic polymer, figure-eight-shaped polymer, and hyperbranched polymer, and 3) fabrication of microscopic structure by “green” nanolithography using oligosaccharide and/or biodegradable polymer. In this short article, I also describe my research and educational policies; I would like to do excellent research for the students, to create a good research environment for the students, and to work hard for the students. Keywords: Precise Polymerization / Air-Free Technique / Macromolecular Architecture / Microscopic Structure / Lithography |
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| Towards the Nature Research of Polymer Science | Harumi SATO |
| <Abstract> I moved as an associate professor to Kobe University at 1st October 2012, and started my new laboratory. I describe here new research topics of my research group. Now, our group concentrates on four major topics; crystallization process and hydrogen bonding of low molecular weight poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), gelation mechanism of gellan gum, NIR imaging and handling of poly(lactic acid) fabrics, thermal properties of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid). Especially, we would like to investigate the relationship between intermolecular interactions and crystalline structure of polymers. Keywords: Biodegradable Polymer / Infrared Spectroscopy / Crystallization Behavior / Gelation Mechanism |
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| Simple, but Epoch-Making Photo Lithography | Michihiro SHIRAKAWA |
| <Abstract> In this article, I describe the challenges of our company which breaking through the resolution limit of the conventional photo lithography. The Negative-tone development process is becoming a new standard process for the manufacture of semiconductor devices. The Dualtone development process, which we expect as a nextgeneration process, is also introduced. Keywords: Photo Lithography / Photo Resist / Negative-Tone Development / Dual-Tone Development |
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| Research and Education as Both Wheels | Manabu TANAKA |
| <Abstract> This essay describes recent topics on our research and education. One of the examples in my research is ionconductive nanofibers for fuel cell applications. We have revealed fast ion conduction in the electrospun ion-conductive nanofibers. The composite membranes containing the nanofibers are promising candidates for the practical fuel cell applications. On the other hand, we are working on educational innovation in our department. Project-Based Learning（PBL）Classroom, in which I am taking the central role to conduct the class, was incorporated into the Applied Chemistry Fundamental Seminar for freshmen. I would like to keep in putting out my best efforts to research and education as both wheels along with other activities. Keywords: Fuel Cells / Nanofibers / Organic Nanoionics / Project-Based Learning |
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| Growth State of Research Seeds | Atsushi NARUMI |
| <Abstract> Happy New Year 2014. My group, consisting of myself and 16 students, is conducting research in Yamagata University. In this essay, recent topics of the group are described, which include the progress in the syntheses of macrocyclic polymers via ring expansion “vinyl” polymerizations based on the cyclic initiators for the nitroxide-mediated controlled radical polymerization (NMP). I report the outcomes and future perspectives brought by the JSPS Japan-France bilateral joint projects (SAKURA program) during 2012-2013 with Dr. Otsuka in CNRSCERMAV as the French’s side principal researcher. My motivations towards the developments of glycoconjugated photosensitizers for the photo dynamic therapy (PDT) are also mentioned. Keywords: Macrocyclic Polymer / Ring Expansion “Vinyl” Polymerization / Glycoconjugate / Maltooligosaccharide / Amphiphlic Monomer / Worm-Like Micelle / Photosensitizer / Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT) |
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| Remote Control of Drug Delivery System | Takuro NIIDOME |
| <Abstract> Development of drug delivery techniques is an important challenge to achieve successful chemotherapy without side effect. In the past three decades, lots of delivery techniques mediated by functional liposomes, polymers and so on have been reported. However, efficiency of the delivery is still quite low. In order to improve the efficiency, external stimuli such as light irradiation has attracted attention to control the drug release from the carrier at a targeted site. In this situation, we have focused on gold nanorods that can be heated by near infrared light irradiation. So far, we could demonstrate controlled drug release responding to the light irradiation, which were mediated by doublestranded DNA or retro Diels-Alder cycloadducts on the gold surface. Recently, I moved to Kumamoto University and started new projects for the control of the immune system by external stimuli. Now, I am enjoying starting up my laboratory with new students. Keywords: Drug Delivery System / Controlled Release System / External Stimulus / Gold Nanoparticles / Near Infrared Light / Nanomedicine |
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| Material Design for Heat & Sound Management | Hisakatsu HAMA |
| <Abstract> In this article I would like to introduce examples from the development process of materials for an optimized function of the products. The important point is a clearly defined knowledge what exact physical properties are needed in each product for heat & sound management in advance. Therefore, not only basic experiments but also the demonstration experiments were combined with the material design, which is based on the physical phenomena including computer simulation. Keywords: Heat Dissipation / Sound Insulation / Polypropylene / Tafthren / Polyethylenenaphthalate(PEN) / FRP |
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| In Pursuit of Hidden Possibilities of Polymers | Naoki HARAGUCHI |
| <Abstract> Polymer-supported chiral catalysts bearing an ammonium sulfonate group at the polymer side chain were effective for the asymmetric reduction of ketones and imines in aqueous media. Chiral organocatalysts bearing quaternary ammonium salt or amine salt entities readily and quantitatively reacted with sulfonated polymer via an ion exchange reaction to afford a polymer-supported chiral organocatalyst. The ammonium sulfonate or amine sulfonate formation could be extended for the synthesis of main-chain polymers of chiral organocatalysts by intermolecular reaction of dimeric ammonium salt or amine salt with disulfonate. Resulting polymeric chiral organocatalysts showed good catalytic activity in asymmetric reactions. The polymeric chiral organocatalyst could be recovered and reused several times without any significant loss of the enantioselectivity. Appropriate design of the support polymer is significant because the polymer is not just a support for the catalyst but a matrix for the catalytic asymmetric reaction. Keywords: Polymer-supported Catalyst / Organocatalyst / Ion Exchange Reaction / Ionic Bond / Polymerization / Chiral Polymer / Polymer Microsphere / Asymmetric Reaction |
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| To See a Friend from Different Field is a Joy | Kazuaki MATSUMURA |
| <Abstract> My research interest is Biomaterials. Recently we showed that several kinds of polyampholytes have a cryoprotective effect on cells in solution. This interesting phenomenon is one of our results from the focus on a different field apart from polymer chemistry. I would like to show the prospective research view based on the integrative study with different fields. Keywords: Biomaterials / Polyampholytes / Biomimetic Materials / Cryobiology |
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| Research on New Possibilities of π-Conjugated Polymers | Isao YAMAGUCHI |
| <Abstract> UV-Vis measurements of polymers that consist of 5-piperazinium-penta-2,4-dienylideneammonium chloride units revealed that the π-conjugation system expanded along the polymer chain due to the orbital interaction between the electrons on the two nitrogen atoms of the piperazinium ring, and its conversion from the boat form to the chair form via the half-chair form occurred stepwise accompanied by the decrease of the π-conjugation length. Polyphenylenes (PPs) that contain viologen side groups were obtained by a reaction using PPs having a NH2 side group as starting material. The electric conductivities of PPs with viologen side groups were three orders of magnitude higher than those of PPs without viologen side groups because of the self-doping based on the electron transfer from the polymer backbone to the viologen moiety. n-Type π-conjugated polymers with the benzo15-crown 5-ether (benzo15C5) pendant groups were synthesized. The polymers with the benzo15C5 subunits exhibited a higher stability for the n-doping state in air as compared to those without benzo15C5 subunits. Keywords: π-Conjugated Polymer / Doping / Through Space Interaction / Helical Structure / Viologen / Crown Ether |
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| Functionalization of Supramolecular Complexes by Hybridization of Biomolecules with Synthetic Compounds | Hiroyasu YAMAGUCHI |
| <Abstract> In biological systems, life processes are led by the unique behavior of macromolecules such as proteins and DNA. Molecular recognition by macromolecules plays an important role, for example, in substrate specificity of enzymes and antigen-antibody reactions in human life. Selective molecular recognition among macromolecules is achieved through a large number of weak interactions. We have focused our attention on the special behavior of antibodies, especially monoclonal antibodies, because they can recognize a complex compound with high specificity. We develop novel materials through hybridization of biorelated macromolecules such as monoclonal antibodies with synthetic small molecules. We construct functionalized catalytic and energy conversion systems based on specific molecular recognition of bio-related polymers and selective assembly of bio/synthetic molecules. Keywords: Molecular Recognition / Self-Assembly / Monoclonal Antibodies / Transition Metal Complexes / Catalysts / Energy Conversion / Noncovalent Bonds / Functionalization |
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| With the Bird's Eye | Satoshi YAMASAKI |
| <Abstract> Since joining Mitsui Chemicals, INC., the author has engaged in the research and development of polyurethanes. Meanwhile, I had the opportunity to publish in the “Growing polymer” issue of this Journal in 2007. My dream that research and development can bring benefits to the people has not changed and now I will continue to create materials friendly to the global environment. Seven years have passed since writing the “Growing polymer” article, and now I introduce our results on the commercialization of high purity polyol with phosphazene as an organic molecule catalyst, biomass polyol and the development of isocyanate to control the stereoisomers, biomass isocyanate with unique features. Just because we are now in a time of intense environmental change, we have tried to develop a “bird’s eye” view, which provides us with a snapshot of the whole, and encourages us to continue to promote the research and development of polymer materials. Keywords: Polyurethane / Polyol / Phosphazene / Biomass / Isocyanate / Stereoisomer |
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| Relationship between Structures and Physical Properties of Polymers!? | Katsuhiro YAMAMOTO |
| <Abstract> It has been important to clarify the relationship between structures and physical properties of polymers since the beginning of polymer science. It seems to be important eternally. Novel techniques, methods, and development of computer technology continuously bring new aspects of the polymer science that could not been understood before. Research often moves in an unexpected direction. That really generates fun and excitement about the research. Our research area is an effort to reveal the mechanism of the structure formation of the block copolymer thin films, to analyze the detailed structure of polymer alloys, and the control of their structures in order to understand the relationship mentioned above. We would like to visualize them eventually. Keywords: Polymer Structure / Physical Property / Block Copolymer / Polymer Thin Film / Microphase Separation / Grazing Incidence Small-Angle X-ray Scattering |
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| Morphology Control of Molecular Assembly toward Novel Optical and Electronic Function | Yohei YAMAMOTO |
| <Abstract> Toward a realization of novel optical and electronic function, I newly started research on self-assembly of polymers, biomolecules, and organic semiconducting molecules in a new laboratory in the University of Tsukuba. I describe recent results of our research and difficulty in building up molecular assemblies and a new laboratory. Keywords: Molecular Assembly/ π-Conjugated Polymer/ Peptide Assembly / Optical Properties / Electronic Properties |
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| The Studio of Coulomb Soup | Hitoshi WASHIZU |
| <Abstract> “Coulomb soup” is an expression used by Prof. Murugappan Muthukumar to describe the living cell as the highly crowded environment of charged polymers and dissociated small ions in an electrolytic medium. It is the most complicated and functional system in the soft matter and also adaptable for industrial applications such as batteries or bio-mimetic synovial joints. The author started a new research group dealing with computer simulations calculating multi-physical dynamics of ion environments around charged polymers or electrodes including the effects of solvation and solvent flows. This will be a new challenge of molecular simulations and for soft matter science and technologies. Keywords: Polyelectrolytes / Coarse-Grain molecular Simulation / Batteries / Coulomb Soup / Friction / Ion Atmosphere / Solvation / Solvent Flow |
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| Polymer Science and I: A Personal Account |
| Failures Led to Success and Luck Brought Trouble | Teppei YAMADA |
| <Abstract> Hundreds of unsuccessful experiments brought me the opportunity for a wonderful travel to Augsburg, Germany to attend the 1st MOF symposium. A trouble during the flight gave me a little happiness, while an award resulted in delight and waste. |
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| Front-Line Polymer Science |
| Control of Birefringence of Polymers for High Image Quality Displays | Akihiro TAGAYA |
| <Abstract> Optical polymer films play an important role to display high-quality images on liquid crystal displays（LCD）. Elimination and control of birefringence of the optical polymer films are important since LCDs handle polarized light. From a viewpoint of birefringence control, this article focuses on some cutting-edge topics in this field such as compensation of birefringence, control of wavelength dependency of birefringence, low birefringent polymer films, a quarter-wave plate, and extremely highretardation films. These research and developments have strengthened international competitiveness of relevant Japanese companies. Furthermore, findings from these research and developments have provided valuable fundamentals for the next innovation in photonics devices. Keywords: Optical Film / Optical Polymer / Birefringence / Liquid Crystal Display / Retardation / Quarter-Wave Plate / Compensation / Smartphone |
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