Breakthrough Particle Synthesis Method for Various Applications through Liquid Dropletization

 AC Biode and Nano Research Kyoto Introduce Breakthrough Particle Synthesis Method for Various Applications through Liquid Dropletization

AC Biode and Nano Research Kyoto (NRK) have initiated a new method for synthesizing microparticles through liquid dropletization, capable of handling a wide range of feedstocks. This includes water-based, organic solvent-based, and moderately high-viscosity raw materials. This pioneering technique shows promise to produce sub-5μm particles with minimal size variation, catering to diverse industries such as biopharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems (DDS), cosmetics, and the chemical sector.

Tadashi Kubo, CEO of AC Biode, explains: “Traditionally, we use emulsion polymerization and microreactors to produce small droplets. The problem is that we cannot control the size very well on a micro-scale.” When asked about competitors he replies: “Yes, some companies now use microreactors and inkjet technologies, but they can only handle low viscosity (up to 20 cps) feedstocks. Also, they cannot create particles smaller than 10μm.”

Key features of the invention include:

• Handling feedstocks with viscosities up to 100 cps
• Droplet size control ranging from approximately 0.5μm to 5μm (with a certain degree of adjustability)
• Dropletization rate of 7.2 mL/10 minutes

SEM of the acid ball at micro-scale

In a significant breakthrough, AC Biode and NRK have successfully developed a technique to dropletize relatively high viscosity (up to 100 cps) feedstocks in large quantities, leading to the synthesis of submicron particles with minimal size variation through liquid-liquid reactions or emulsion polymerization.

As a practical application, a 1.5% sodium alginate solution (50 cps) was dropletized in substantial quantities. The dropletized feedstock was injected into a calcium chloride aqueous solution, resulting in a reaction that led to the filtration of the reaction mixture, yielding calcium alginate micro-particles with a size variation of only 0.8μm. By dispersing microparticles or bacteria in the sodium alginate solution, it becomes possible to create alginate balls encapsulating these components.

About Nano Research Kyoto:

Nano Research Kyoto is a venture company dedicated to providing cutting-edge research and development services based on unique ideas and technologies. With core competencies in "3D microfabrication," "fluid control," and "magnetic control," the company actively integrates its expertise into diverse fields such as chemistry, biotechnology, and medicine. Nano Research Kyoto is committed to contributing to the resolution of Japan's technological challenges, including "super-aging," "IoT and robotics," and the post-COVID-19 era.

For media inquiries, please contact:

https://www.nanoresearch-kyoto.co.jp/

Tadashi.kubo@acbiode.com

 

Company Overview: Nano Research Kyoto

• Company Name: Nano Research Kyoto Co., Ltd.
• Website: https://www.nanoresearch-kyoto.co.jp/
• Establishment Date: July 1, 2022
• Capital: 3 million JPY
• Address: KRP Building 1, 134 Nakadōji Minamimachi, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Representative: Yasuhisa Fujii, CEO
• Business Activities: Contract Research, Consulting

About AC Biode:

AC Biode is committed to its mission of contributing to the reduction of global warming gases, addressing marine plastics, and increasing recycling rates through chemical technology. The company is engaged in the development of exchange batteries, circuitry, catalysts for plastic decomposition (Plastalyst), and various adsorbents. With a presence in Luxembourg and an office in Cambridge UK, AC Biode operates in Europe, Japan, and other regions. They have successfully achieved depolymerization of materials like polyethylene and PET bottles and have multiple patent applications in progress.

Image: Experiment at Keihanna Plaza Lab in Seika Town, Kyoto Prefecture.

For inquiries about products and technology: Contact Link

AC Biode is hiring a chemist:

AC Biode actively seeks experts in materials science (organic, inorganic, hybrid, polymer, natural polymers), electrochemistry, and catalysis. The following qualifications are desirable:

• Location: Keihanna Plaza Lab (Seika Town, Kyoto Prefecture), with opportunities for overseas travel.
• Skills: Proficiency in organic and inorganic synthesis. Strong handling of various experimental reagents. Familiarity with vacuum and pressurized systems. Safe handling of flammable and inert gases.
• Language: Japanese or English. Proficiency in Japanese is beneficial but not mandatory.

CVs should not include photos or gender information. Individuals interested in contributing to environmental issues through chemical technology are encouraged to contact the company. Please submit CVs in Japanese or English (both languages are ok, and cover letters are not required).

For inquiries regarding employment: Email: Tadashi.kubo@acbiode.com

Company Overview: AC Biode

• Company Name: AC Biode S.a r.l. (Luxembourg), AC Biode Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Website: https://acbiode.com/
• Establishment Date: April 1, 2019
• Capital: 100 million JPY (Japan)
• Address: Luxembourg; 498-6 Iwakura Hanazonocho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Offices: Cambridge, UK; Otemachi, Tokyo
• Representative: Tadashi Kubo, President
• Business Activities: Development of exchange batteries, circuitry, catalysts for plastic decomposition, various adsorbents, etc.