Background and Aims: Powder technology plays a significant role in various industrial products, with increasing demands for higher functionality driving the need for more advanced manufacturing processes. As these processes evolve, there is a growing need for enhanced techniques to evaluate powder properties. This report introduces two key devices developed by our company: the Parshe Analyzer^® (PAS) for particle shape and size analysis, and the E-SPART Analyzer^® (EST) for measuring particle charge distribution. These devices offer unique capabilities for precise particle characterization, meeting the sophisticated requirements of modern industrial applications.

Methods and Results: The PAS is a dynamic image analysis system used to measure particle size and shape. While laser diffraction and scattering methods are common for particle size distribution measurement, they lack the capability to evaluate particle shape and detect coarse particles within a sample. The PAS addresses these limitations by utilizing dynamic image analysis, allowing high-throughput measurement of a large number of particles suspended in liquid. With its flat sheath flow system, the PAS maintains precise focus, ensuring accurate measurements for particles ranging from sub-micron to over 100 μm. It also features automated lens switching and an optional auto-sampler for efficient sample dispersion.

A measurement example of silicon carbide (d₅₀=5.6 μm) using the PAS is provided. After ultrasonic dispersion, the particles were analyzed, revealing variations in particle detection depending on the proximity of adjacent particles. This demonstrates the PAS’s capability to deliver both quantitative and qualitative data on particle size and morphology.

The EST is a device that measures particle size and charge using laser Doppler technology. It evaluates phase delay caused by particle inertia in an acoustic field to determine size and calculates charge based on drift velocity in an electric field. Unlike bulk methods like the Faraday cage, the EST provides detailed charge distribution data for individual particles. To address issues with discontinued parts, a new version of the EST is under development, featuring digital signal processing, miniaturization, and improved mobility.

Conclusions (Outlook): The PAS and EST offer unique and precise insights into particle properties, providing advanced solutions for research and quality control applications. The ongoing development of these devices is expected to further support innovations in industries that require accurate particle characterization.

Background and Aims: The push for a decarbonized society has intensified research into energy storage and generation technologies. This paper explores the application of Multilayer Ceramic Capacitor (MLCC) technology—a core technology of TAIYO YUDEN CO., LTD—to the development of advanced energy devices. MLCCs are miniaturized, high-capacity capacitors constructed by alternately stacking thin dielectric ceramic layers of BaTiO₃ (barium titanate) and Ni metal layers, followed by co-firing. This study focuses on enhancing BaTiO₃ powder properties for producing thin dielectric layers and applying this knowledge to the development of oxide-based all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) and metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFCs). The research aims to leverage MLCC technology to achieve the miniaturization and efficiency required for these next-generation energy devices.

Methods and Results: The study began with improving the solid-state synthesis of BaTiO₃, essential for achieving the thin dielectric layers needed in MLCCs. The reaction mechanism was investigated using fine BaCO₃ and TiO₂ powders, revealing that BaTiO₃ formation initiates at the contact points between the two materials, followed by Ba ion diffusion into TiO₂. By optimizing the particle size and homogeneity of the reaction mixture, the team successfully synthesized highly crystalline BaTiO₃ particles. These findings were then applied to the synthesis of battery materials, focusing on achieving a uniform dispersion of fine particles, essential for the thin-layer construction in both ASSBs and MS-SOFCs. The study demonstrated that using MLCC-based processing techniques—such as tape casting, stacking, and co-firing—enabled the production of all-solid-state batteries and SOFCs with promising performance characteristics.

Conclusions (Outlooks): The research highlights the potential of MLCC technology to drive advancements in energy device miniaturization and efficiency. The enhanced solid-state synthesis of BaTiO₃ and its application to battery materials underscore the feasibility of developing compact, high-performance energy devices. Future work will focus on further refining these materials and processing techniques, potentially leading to the commercialization of MLCC-based all-solid-state batteries and SOFCs. The success of this approach could contribute significantly to the development of sustainable energy technologies, aligning with global efforts toward decarbonization.

Background and Aims: Many carbon materials are used in the fields of advanced semiconductors and energy creation, and they require extremely high levels of purity and specific properties. In recent years, they have been widely deployed in various applications, from industrial to consumer, such as energy conservation and clean energy, and are playing an important role as a basic material that supports our lives. Furthermore, technological developments such as new application developments and composite material technology have led to a wide range of applications. Although carbon is a material that consists only of the element C, the factors that determine the characteristics of these applications are largely due to the handling technology of the powder made from the raw powder. In particular, we will describe the characteristics of high-performance artificial graphite, which is an integrated powder control technology, and report on mesoporous carbon CNovel^® as the latest carbon powder material.

Methods and Results: CNovel^® was synthesized by utilizing resin powder as a carbon source, which was then heated to approximately 900°C in an inert atmosphere. The process involved the use of MgO as a template to form mesopores. Post-synthesis, MgO was removed through washing with dilute sulfuric acid and pure water. Various techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms, were employed to analyze the pore structure and surface area of the resultant carbon material. The study demonstrated that by adjusting the MgO crystal size, researchers could precisely control the pore size of CNovel^®. Results showed that carbon materials with tailored pore structures significantly enhanced performance in energy storage and catalytic applications compared to conventional carbons.

Conclusions (Outlooks): CNovel^®’s ability to control pore size through MgO crystal size manipulation opens new avenues for the development of advanced carbon materials. The tailored pore structures offer promising improvements in efficiency and functionality for applications such as supercapacitors, batteries, and catalytic converters. Future research should focus on optimizing synthesis parameters and exploring additional applications to fully harness the potential of CNovel^® in various industrial and technological fields.

Introduction: The Nauta Mixer^® is a powder mixer developed in the 1940s in the Netherlands for mixing animal feed. The machine consists of a conical body with a mixing screw attached to a rotating arm. The Nauta Mixer has several favorable attributes, such as mixing swiftly with low energy consumption, minimal damage to the powder particles, ease of discharge with a low amount of residue, and ease of cleaning, making use of multiple products easier. The mixer has been widely adopted worldwide, with over 20,000 units sold across various industries.

Nauta Mixer^® principle and design: The Nauta Mixer utilizes the principle of convective mixing, where the powder undergoes upward, downward, and spiral motions within the casing due to the rotation of the screw. The mixer design follows a geometric similarity, with the casing angle remaining constant across different capacities, while only the height varies. As the capacity increases, the screw length also increases proportionally. This design approach ensures consistent mixing performance across different mixer sizes.

Nauta Mixer^® types and features: The Nauta Mixer is available in three main types: NX, DBX, and VN. The VN type, introduced in 1997, features a compact and sanitary design with improved drive-unit integration. Compared with the DBX type, the VN type offers a smaller footprint and improved cleanability while maintaining mixing performance.

Case study: low-floor VN mixer: A case study is presented where a low-floor 5000-L VN Mixer was replaced a horizontal mixer, addressing issues such as poor powder discharge and blocking by powder. The low-floor design was achieved by cutting the bottom section while ensuring adequate mixing performance through design modifications.

Research on mixing time: Research on estimating the mixing time for the Nauta Mixer is discussed, highlighting the correlation between mixing time and various parameters, such as screw diameter, length, rotational speed, and Froude number. While empirical equations show good agreement for smaller capacities, deviations are observed for larger mixers, likely due to more active convective mixing at higher powder levels.

Conclusions: The Nauta Mixer provides efficient convective mixing with minimal shear and temperature rise, making it suitable for various applications. Hosokawa Micron continues to innovate and provide tailored solutions to meet a variety of customer requirements and applications.

Introduction: Touch screens have become an integral part of our daily lives, from ATMs and vending machines to smartphones. In the factory automation (FA) field, major manufacturers like Mitsubishi Electric, Omron, and Schneider Electric have developed touch screen products. Hosokawa Micron Corporation primarily adopts Mitsubishi Electric’s GOT series, which accounts for over 90% of their touch screen installations.

Evolution of Control Panels: The adoption of touch screens has significantly transformed the specifications and operation of control panels. Hosokawa Micron’s delivery record shows a steady increase in touch screen adoption, from less than 20% in the early 2000s to 80–90% currently. The decline in 2011 was due to the impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, which disrupted the production of essential components like capacitors. In addition, the decline since 2018 has been due to the shortage of semiconductors caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has finally shown a recovery trend over the past few years.

Touch Screen Features: Touch screens offer several advantages over traditional control panels:

1. Operation monitoring screen: Allows for visual representation of equipment status and process values.

2. Setup screen: Consolidates parameter settings, alarm configurations, and timer adjustments into a single interface, often with password protection.

3. Error screen: Displays detailed error information and guidance, eliminating the need for physical indicator lamps.

4. Equipment screen: Records and displays equipment run times, aiding in maintenance scheduling.

5. Startup condition screen: Indicates the reasons for startup failure, simplifying troubleshooting.

6. Trend screen: Enables data logging and trend visualization without the need for separate recording devices.

7. Special screens: Customizable screens tailored to specific equipment requirements, such as the startup setting screen for Hosokawa Micron’s GLACIS^®—a high performance cooling type fine grinding mechanical mill.

Conclusion: The widespread adoption of touch screens in control panels is driven by the benefits of digitization, consistent operation, and data logging capabilities. As user needs evolve, touch screen software is expected to become more diverse, potentially incorporating features inspired by smartphones and tablets. Hosokawa Micron aims to identify and propose effective touch screen solutions to meet customer requirements.

Introduction: In industrial settings, drying slurry and clay-like materials can be achieved through direct or indirect heating methods. The Solidaire^TM dryer, an indirect heating dryer, stands out due to its efficient combination of jacket heating and high-speed paddle agitation. This study explores new technological advancements in Solidaire to enhance its drying capabilities.

About Solidaire^TM: The Solidaire dryer indirectly transfers heat to the material via a heated jacket while agitating the material with high-speed rotating paddles, ensuring efficient and rapid drying. The internal structure includes a cylindrical casing with a surrounding heating jacket and a rotating paddle assembly. The paddles’ high rotating speed helps to break down agglomerates, reducing the residence time and minimizing heat damage to the material.

Experimental methods: A series of tests was conducted to evaluate the effects of increased paddle rotating speed and reduced clearance between the paddles and the casing. These tests used a prototype designed to achieve higher paddle speeds and adjustable clearance. Experiments were conducted using a lightweight calcium carbonate slurry (primary particle size 150 nm, 67% W.B.), which is prone to adhesion. The overall heat transfer coefficient and moisture content of the dried product were measured under various conditions.

Results and Discussion:

1. Clearance Effect: Reducing the clearance between the agitator paddles and the inner wall increased the overall heat transfer coefficient, likely because of a decrease in the thickness of the boundary layer (L_p in Fig. 3).

2. Paddle Speed Effect: Increasing the paddle peripheral speed from the standard 11 m/s to 22 and 33 m/s improved the overall heat transfer coefficient (Figs. 7–9). Higher speeds facilitated particle dispersion, increased contact between particles and the heated wall, and reduced adhesion.

3. Jacket Temperature Effect: Higher jacket temperatures (steam pressures) increased the overall heat transfer coefficient and reduced the moisture content of the dried product, as expected (Figs. 11–14).

4. Adhesion Reduction: Higher paddle speeds effectively reduced adhesion inside the dryer, which is a common issue in drying operations (Fig. 15).

Conclusions: The study demonstrated that increasing the paddle rotating speed and optimizing the clearance in the Solidaire^TM indirect heating dryer significantly improved the drying capacity by enhancing the overall heat transfer coefficient and reducing adhesion. These findings provide insights into the development of next-generation dryers with improved performance for various industrial applications.

Background and Aims: In contemporary society, rapid digitalization is advancing, expanding IoT platforms in the manufacturing industry. Among these developments, interest in digital twin technology is growing. However, this technology requires advanced computational capabilities, posing significant technical challenges. Particularly in the field of powder technology, it is necessary to accurately consider the complex behavior of particles, making its realization difficult. To address these challenges, we have focused on measuring properties such as the angle of repose and bulk density using the powder property measuring device “Powder Tester”. In collaboration with DENSE Ltd., we have been developing a simulation model that forms the basis of digital twins in powder technology.

Methods and Results: To numerically evaluate the complex behavior of powders, we measured the angle of repose and bulk density using the Powder Tester^TM in collaboration with DENSE Ltd. Based on these measurements, we developed a simulation model applying a coarse-grained model for irregular particles. This model enables practical time analysis in powder simulations, which typically require enormous computational costs. By incorporating these measurements into our model, we were able to simulate the behavior of powders more efficiently. The simulation results showed good agreement with experimental data, validating the model’s accuracy and effectiveness in predicting powder behavior under various conditions. Additionally, we explored different simulation scenarios to assess the model’s robustness and flexibility, further confirming its potential for practical applications in the industry.

Conclusions and Outlooks: The development of this simulation model has demonstrated that the behavior of irregular particles can be analyzed within practical timeframes. This achievement is expected to contribute to advancing digital twin technology in powder technology. Future challenges include further improving this model and applying it to simulate a wider range of powder behaviors, ultimately enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of digital twins in various industrial applications. By continuing this research, we aim to overcome existing limitations and drive innovation in the field of powder technology. Our ongoing efforts will focus on integrating more complex particle interactions and refining the model to handle diverse powder properties, paving the way for more sophisticated digital twin solutions.

 It has been reported that oral health is closely related to overall health, and dental health management can be considered an integral part of general health management. Oral biofilm is widely recognized as a key factor in the etiology of periodontal disease. The primary goal in preventing periodontal disease is to inhibit the formation and reformation of oral biofilms, which necessitates the development of highly effective biofilm inhibiting materials. Therefore, we developed IPMP (isopropylmethylphenol) loaded PLGA (polylactic acid-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (NP) with high permeability to biofilms, aimed at effectively preventing periodontal disease.

 Active ingredient-loaded PLGA NP are thought to be capable of delivering drugs deeper into biofilms compared to the active ingredient alone. IPMP not only has a strong antibacterial effect but is also less irritating and highly safe and widely used in cosmetics and other products, including toothpaste. We developed three prototypes of toothpaste: one that did not contain either IPMP or PLGA NP, one that contained IPMP, and one that contained the IPMP-loaded PLGA NP, and conducted clinical trials. The increase in oral bacterial counts was suppressed in the IPMP-loaded PLGA NP group compared with the IPMP-only group. The amount of hemoglobin in the saliva tended to be lower in the IPMP-loaded PLGA NP group than in the IPMP-only group. The sulfur compound concentration tended to be lower in the IPMP-loaded PLGA NP group than in the IPMP-only group. When PLGA NP containing the fluorescent component Coumarin were used, the fluorescent component remained on the tongue even after rinsing.

 Clinical trials using IPMP-loaded PLGA NP demonstrated reductions in bacterial counts, subgingival bleeding, and improved halitosis. These results suggest that IPMP-loaded PLGA NP are effective in inhibiting biofilm formation.

The ACM PULVERIZER^® is a fine impact mill with a built-in classifier and is widely used for various applications worldwide. It has the advantage of high grinding capacity and easy adjustment of target particle size by simply changing the classifier’s rotation speed. Recently, we have commercialized the next-generation ACM-F Type, which achieves further energy and space savings by modularizing the grinding section, classifying section, and internal circulation structure of the conventional ACM series.

The next-generation oral care product from Hosokawa Micron. This low-foaming gel texture allows for extended brushing to thoroughly remove plaque and stains while providing a gentle massaging effect on the gums. Metasodium nitrilotriacetate lifts stains for a brighter smile. PLGA nanocapsules deliver IPMP deep into biofilms to inhibit periodontal pathogens long-lastingly. This product is formulated with antimicrobial CPC and anti-inflammatory β-glycyrrhetinic acid to prevent gum disease and bad breath.

Hosokawa Micron presents a new-age quasi-drug make-up base for everyone seeking beautiful skin. This primer is a revolutionary product that not only ‘covers’ and ‘cares for’ skin problems but also provides long-lasting skincare while finishing base makeup in a sophisticated way. This primer enhances the skin’s natural beauty while offering UV protection and skincare effects. Formulated with two effective ingredients—tranexamic acid and dipotassium glycyrrhizate—encapsulated in long-lasting nanocapsules, it penetrates deep into the skin for prolonged skincare effects. It not only addresses skin concerns but also prevents irritation and promotes a brighter complexion. Ideal for busy modern women, this product provides both makeup and skincare in one, making it a reliable partner for achieving healthy, radiant skin.

HOSOKAWA MICRON CORPORATION manufactures and sells a wide range of powder processing equipment used in various industries. Our lineup includes equipment for Milling, Classifying, Mixing, Drying, Dust collection, Granulation, and Particle design, etc. We offer over 200 models, providing different processing volumes and purposes, from experimental equipment to production-scale systems.

The Powder Processing System Division is responsible for marketing, manufacturing, and sales. We provide equipment and systems to a wide variety of markets, such as minerals, chemicals, food, recycling, electronics, and automotive materials. Additionally, the Pharma & Lab Division handles sales activities for measuring equipment and pharmaceutical-related applications.

To meet customer requirements and enhance product value, we engineer optimal systems, such as the HOSOKAWA GEN4 RM with IoT for remote monitoring and anomaly detection, and DMR DRYMEISTER^® drying machine proposing an energy-saving system with cost reduction and SDG contributions. In this way, by providing end-to-end support, from planning to trial operation, we offer our customers satisfactory equipment and system solutions. Feel free to contact us for customized equipment and systems.

The Pharma & Lab Division of Hosokawa Micron was established in October 2021, separating from the Powder Processing System Division. This new division addresses the unique needs of the pharmaceutical industry, which requires specialized knowledge and swift responses to rapid changes. The division focuses on advanced powder technologies, such as jet milling for drug coatings and dry coating techniques. It also introduced the PAS (Parshe Analyzer^®), which provides precise particle shape and size measurements. The division aims to enhance its market presence by expanding its offerings in both pharmaceutical equipment and measurement instruments.

After Sales Division is engaged in sales and repair of parts, alteration of machinery, and system improvements to solve issues related to powder processing. Our main goal is to provide the best solutions and develop trust with our clients by offering customized alterations tailored to their specifications. We have domestic branches in Osaka, Tokyo, Nagoya, and Shimonoseki, and an overseas branch in Malaysia to support our clients in Southeast Asia. Our experienced engineers respond promptly to inquiries and deliver skilled, reliable repairs and maintenance services, whether for a single piece of equipment or an entire process line.

Our Toll Processing business responds to customer’s specific production needs under strict quality control, based on various experience and know-how in powder processing technologies that Hosokawa Micron Corporation has cultivated for over 100 years.

Our business mission is to support our customers’ business opportunities with a variety of powder processes, such as small-scale test processes for research and development, bridging production processes until the start of equipment operation, and mass production processes that replace existing production lines.

Material Business Division possesses advanced PLGA (Poly-Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) nanoparticle technology with DDS (Drug Delivery System) characteristics. The PLGA nanocapsules proposed and provided by us have already been applied to not only drug formulation but also cosmetics, quasi-drugs, medical devices such as stents and balloon catheters. Since 2004, we have launched to sell both a functional skincare cosmetic brand “NanoCrysphere^®” and a haircare brand “NanoImpact^®”, both using the PLGA nanocapsules. We are also promoting ODM production and sales for various types of unique cosmetics, such as powdery serum and eyelash serum utilizing our PLGA nanocapsule technology.

Hosokawa Micron Corporation’s Healthcare Department (formerly Hosokawa Micron Cosmetics) launched a new oral care brand, “Nanoral^®,” in March 2024, introducing the medicated toothpaste gel “Medicated White & Protect.” This product combines four active ingredients to provide whitening and protection against periodontal disease, cavities, and bad breath. It features “IPMP (Isopropyl Methylphenol)” encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles, which effectively penetrates biofilms to deliver a sustained antibacterial effect, significantly improving periodontal health. As Japan’s aging population increasingly focuses on oral health, the company has expanded its promotional efforts through various media, targeting both senior and pre-senior demographics.

In November 2023, the company also released “Medicated Toning Primer UV” under the “NanocrySphere^®” brand. This primer includes “Tranexamic Acid” for skin whitening and “Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate” for its anti-inflammatory properties. It not only enhances skin appearance but also prevents inflammation and irritation, providing high UV protection (SPF50+/PA++++). The product provides a smooth, even-toned complexion with a lightweight, hydrating texture.

Additionally, the company continues to promote its hair growth line, “NanoImpact^®,” with the eighth series, “Medicated NanoImpact^® 8”, launched in September 2022. The company utilizes a broad range of media, including newspapers, TV commercials, and the internet, to expand its customer base.

Hosokawa Micron leverages its proprietary PLGA nanoparticle technology to develop innovative products and engage in distinctive marketing activities. Despite market uncertainties, including global instability and historic yen depreciation, the company remains committed to meeting consumer needs through fast-paced product development, improvement, and marketing. With a strong focus on enhancing quality of life (QOL), Hosokawa Micron aims to expand its product reach both domestically and internationally by promoting its advanced powder technology to a global audience.

Hosokawa Micron has been importing and selling powder coating machines using environmentally friendly “Powder coatings” since 1979 from German company “J. Wagner GmbH”. In 1997, Wagner-Hosokawa Micron Ltd. was established as a joint venture company with Wagner^®. Powder coating is not only safe because it does not use solvents, but it is also a highly promising coating field where over sprayed paint (unpainted) can be recycled.

Hosokawa Micron International Inc. has opened Hosokawa Custom Processing Services LLC in North Carolina, featuring a state-of-the-art facility for powder processing, classification, blending, and characterization. The 50,000 sq ft facility includes advanced milling systems, a full analytical laboratory, and dry blending capabilities. With its strategic location and skilled workforce, the new facility enhances Hosokawa’s ability to provide customized solutions, continuing its century-long legacy of processing expertise.

Hosokawa Solids, part of the Hosokawa Micron Group since 2020, specializes in bulk solids handling with over 55 years of experience. The company excels in storage, discharge, pneumatic conveying, and automation. New facilities in Spain are expanding its production capabilities. With over 10,000 projects completed globally, Hosokawa Solids provides turnkey solutions across various industries, aiming for high performance and efficiency in bulk solids handling.

Integrated reports, while familiar to institutional investors, are not widely known. They include both financial and non-financial information, such as corporate governance and social initiatives. Originating from a focus on corporate social responsibility by overseas investors, these reports have gained traction globally. In Japan, spurred by initiatives like the Corporate Governance Code and ESG investment trends, more companies are producing integrated reports. Last year, our company embraced this trend by determining materiality, calculating CO₂ emissions, and aligning with the TCFD guidelines. We have since produced an integrated report covering our company and two domestic subsidiaries, showcasing our commitment to transparency and sustainability.

This paper introduces the Intellectual Property Department of Hosokawa Micron Corporation, focusing on its evolving role and initiatives. Initially part of the R&D department, the IP Department shifted to the Corporate Division in 2020, one of the supporting functions for the company’s overall business development. The department continues to secure and manage industrial property rights, including patents and trademarks, while increasingly focusing on preventing infringement and reducing litigation risks. Recent efforts also involve international trademark registration and collaboration with external experts. The department aims to enhance visibility to employees, management, and stakeholders, promoting awareness and strategic use of intellectual assets across the company.

The 56th Symposium on Powder Technology, hosted by the Hosokawa Powder Technology Foundation, took place on September 3, 2024, at Grand Cube Osaka in a hybrid format with nearly 250 participants attending. The theme was “Powder Technology and its Applications for Advanced Manufacturing Processes,” featuring six lectures, including the 2023 KONA Award presentation to Emeritus Prof. Wiwut Tanthapanichakoon, the first Asian (excluding Japan) recipient. Lectures covered submicron- and nanoparticle technologies, 3D printing, AI in material development, powder property measurement and industrial applications such as MLCC energy devices and carbon materials. The event concluded with a lively discussion and a closing address by Hosokawa Micron Corporation President Kohei Hosokawa, followed by a social gathering. The 57th symposium will be held in Tokyo.