In order to design and control the surface interaction between fine and nanoparticles in liquid and gas phases, we have been developing our original methods for characterization of molecular and nanometer-scale structure at interface, as well as the interaction between particles. In various application fields, since the control of adhesion and aggregation behaviors of nano and fine particles are one of the most important technologies, surface molecular structure design by organic ligands with different molecular structures for nanoparticles dispersion stability control in various organic solvents. For fine particle adhesion behavior control at high temperatures in energy and environmental systems is overviewed, the original characterization systems were developed to analyze the mechanisms of adhesion increase behaviors. New original method for preparation of model ash particles from pure silica and metal oxide particles was also developed by the addition of small amounts of elements, such as alkali metals and phosphates. Based on the analyzing results, the adhesion behavior of fine particles was controlled by the addition of various materials.

The Discrete Element Method (DEM), introduced by Cundall and Strack in 1979, gradually spread to the field of powder engineering in the late 1980s. In the 1990s, numerous applications of DEM to the field of powder technology were made, and its usefulness for predicting powder behavior was recognized. Subsequently, in the 2000s and 2010s, with the development of computers and the popularization of general-purpose software, numerical simulation of powder processes became widely adopted in the industrial sector as well. Since the 1980s, the author has been actively involved in discrete particle modeling of solid-gas two-phase flows and the development of DEM-CFD models for numerical analysis of dense gas-solid two-phase flows. This paper describes the development of discrete particle models and simulations conducted by the authors.

Powder handling is closely associated with several powder characteristics, including adhesiveness, flowability, and chargeability. Predicting these characteristics solely through theoretical means is challenging due to the combined effects of multiple underlying factors, thereby necessitating evaluation tests. Moreover, expressing these features solely in terms of average or representative values is inadequate; therefore, methods for obtaining distributions or profiles are recommended. The evaluation tests, similar to powder handling processes, require the application of vibration, static electricity, and various external forces. This article describes powder characterization methods that satisfy these requirements, then presents examples of powder handling applications that employ vibration incorporating innovative mechanisms such as powder feeders, powder agitators, and bubbling fluidized beds. Additionally, it introduces technologies that utilize static electricity for particle levitation, dispersion, and mixing.

When zeolites are used as catalysts or adsorbents, diffusion in micropores affects the catalyst/adsorption phenomenon itself. Therefore, the development of technology that enables the preparation of fine particles is important. However, it is not easy to directly synthesize nano-sized crystals (~100 nm) by the bottom-up method in zeolite synthesis, that is, by controlling nucleation and crystal growth. Normally, zeolites often grow to a size of about several microns under hydrothermal conditions, and there is also a method for pulverizing the zeolite to size-regulate it. However, zeolite, which is a porous material, is more susceptible to damage from mechanical impact than dense metal oxides. In recent years, the authors have developed a new method for preparing nanosized zeolites by combining a bead milling method with low mechanical load and a recrystallization method using an aluminosilicate aqueous solution (Wakihara et al., Cryst. Growth Des. 2011, 11, 4, 955–958). At present, the target is expanded from the initial LTA-type zeolite to various zeolite systems.

Oxide semiconductor materials exhibit excellent properties and new functions due to the synergy of their size and shape. In this study, various structural tunings of titanium oxide (titania) nanopowders, which have low-dimensional nanometer-scale structures such as nanotube structures and, hence, exhibit excellent physicochemical and photochemical functions, were performed to further improve their photocatalytic properties and to add advanced functions. Specifically, we describe the unique nanocomposite structures and their photocatalytic and sensing properties of TNT-based nanocomposites with different materials (nanocarbons and conductive polyaniline polymers) obtained by solution chemical processes. Furthermore, recent research results on the control of the surface chemical structure of low-dimensional nanostructured titania by a simple chemical treatment to add visible light responsivity, including process and structure, physical properties, and improvement of photochemical (photocatalytic) functions, will be presented, aiming at applications in the environmental and energy fields, and even in next-generation biomedical fields.

“Advanced lithium-ion batteries (LIBs)” are a class of next-generation batteries, which combine the advantages of conventional LIB with new cutting-edge technologies for high performance of battery cells. These batteries have a wide range of applications as basic energy devices in our global society. To realize advanced LIBs with high energy densities, improved battery material powders and their structural designs play a crucial role. This paper aims to introduce the fundamental designs of battery powders for advanced LIBs, along with several powder treatment techniques that contribute to the development of high-performance batteries.

Human Stem Cell Culture Supernatant, a product of regenerative medicine and stem cell research, contains various cell growth factors and bioactive substances. It has diverse and multifaceted mechanisms of action, so that it is capable of activating cellular functions and promoting the production of constituent components. Consequently, it has attracted attention as a groundbreaking cosmetic ingredient and is being used accordingly.

In this paper, the functionality of a smart technology that fuses human stem cell culture fluid and PLGA nanospheres was verified. The results suggest excellent collagen-producing ability, especially in the epidermis and dermis, and indicate that the technology can be expected to be utilized in aging care cosmetics. It has been demonstrated that PLGA NS work as a highly useful delivery technology, which facilitates penetration of ingredients like HSCCS, despite their large molecular size, deep into the skin, and retains them at the site of action, ensuring a long-lasting effect.

DRYMEISTER^® (model: DMR), which continues to evolve through numerous improvements and modifications since its development in 2000, is a representative model with high efficiency as a dryer. This dryer has a high-speed dispersion/pulverization mechanism and is also equipped with a classification mechanism. Experimental results and considerations are reported are reported, focusing on the improvement of drying efficiency, compactness, easy access cleaning, and reduction of adhesion, which are required for high-speed airflow direct heating dryers.

Due to the market trends in recent years, there is a growing demand for further miniaturization of powders. Effective methods for obtaining fine particles during pulverization usually include jet mills and agitating media mills with strong pulverizing power. However, products pulverized by mechanical mills sometimes exhibit characteristics different from those pulverized by jet mills. In order to obtain fine particles with specific characteristics, it is necessary to increase the rotational speed of the mechanical mills to enhance the impact force. Vibration is a crucial factor in promoting high-speed machines, and we will concisely summarize its importance here. With our extensive expertise in engineering, designing, manufacturing, facility installation and maintenance, we have accumulated various experiences in this field. Based on these experiences, we are pleased to propose equipment capable of manufacturing particles that possess the desired powder characteristics as requested by our customers.

Filtration dust collectors are widely used in manufacturing lines that handle a variety of powders, including minerals, chemicals, foods, and pharmaceuticals, as well as for powder collection and environmental protection, including air pollution control. The filtration-type dust collectors we offer are dry-type dust collectors (Bag filter) with a pulse-jet cleaning mechanism that can be used with a wide variety of molded and sewn filters. They have several features, such as high dust collection efficiency, stable continuous operation, and a high treatment airflow per filtration area (filtration air velocity). In this article, we will introduce a typical dry-type dust collector and a unique KP-type pulse jet collector that we offer. We will also provide an overview of the tests we are capable to perform.

There are various types of particle measurement methods, and particle size measurement by image analysis is effective for evaluating the shape of particles and evaluating coarse particles contained in very small amounts. The Parshe Analyzer^®, which is a dynamic particle image analyzer, and the optional Auto Sampler, which is an automatic sample preparation and dispensing device, are introduced with examples of actual powder measurement.

The world is rapidly being digitized due to the advocacy of Industry 4.0 and the provision of IoT platforms in the industrial world. As a result, digitization has become a central topic in the manufacturing industry. Among the various aspects of digitization, digital twins have attracted considerable attention. However, implementing digital twins poses many technical challenges, demanding advanced calculations, especially in the field of powders, where the consideration of particle behavior is complex. In order to solve these problems, we have focused on measuring the angle of repose and bulk density using the “POWDER TESTER” as the standard method for numerically evaluating powder behavior in practical industries. This approach allows us to develop a simulation model forming the basis of the digital twin in the powder field, in collaboration with DENSE Co., Ltd. Although powder simulations are computationally expensive in general, we managed to perform this simulation within a practical timeframe by applying a coarse-grained model. In this report, we report the construction and verification results of this simulation model.

The “Nano DDS-type hair-growth agent with PLGA nanospheres” is our core technology and has a high hair-growth effect, and has been actually used for hair growth in humans. In this report, we present the results of an in vitro test using dermal papilla cells, which play a central role in the normalization of the hair cycle, which is essential for hair growth, and in the formation and growth of hair follicles. In experiments using cells, we evaluated cell activating effects, gene expression of hair growth-promoting factors, and expression-suppressing effects of genes related to hair loss. The results showed that PLGA NS, which contains hair-growth components, has effects on the activation of papilla cells, normalization of the hair cycle, promotion of hair follicle formation, promotion of blood flow, and prevention of telogen effluvium transition (hair loss). These effects indicate that PLGA NS is an extremely useful delivery technology that allows hair-growth ingredients to penetrate deep into the pores and remain at the site of action for a sustained effect.

The Parshe Analyzer^® is a dynamic image analyzer that measures particle size and shape from particle images. With a wide measurement range of 0.5–160 μm, it is used not only for shape measurement but also for foreign matter detection.

The optional automatic pretreatment equipment, known as the “Auto Sampler”, can automatically perform solvent dispersion, ultrasonic dispersion, measurement, and cleaning of up to 12 samples.

As the new hair item in our best-selling haircare brand, the “NanoImpact^® HYBRID SPRAY” is now available. Simply spraying it on provides natural coverage of areas of concern, while PLGA nanocapsules enable hair and scalp care.

We have launched three innovative essence products: PLGAns^® FD Derma Essence for skincare, FD scalp essence for haircare, and Powdery Essence for skincare. These products are the result of the synergy between our nanotechnology, the PLGA capsule, and regenerative clinic’s biotechnology, M-CEL^®—a human stem cell culture supernatant. Our essences are designed to revitalize and address various skin and hair concerns effectively by activating cells.

Our latest breakthrough raw material “PLGA Capsulex^TM” is now available for use in your functional skincare/haircare/makeup products. This is an innovative material based on our delivery and long-lasting nanotechnology. We offer four distinct products under the PLGA Capsulex^TM line: BasicCare, AgingCare, HairCare, and PoreCare. Each model contains a selection of beauty ingredients inside the nano-sized capsule and works effectively for different applications and concerns.

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.

After Sales Division is engaged in sales and repair of parts, alteration of machinery and system improvements in order to solve the issues about powder processing. Our main purpose is to provide the best solution to develop a trust relationship with the clients by increasing the number of alterations tailored to customer specifications. Our domestic branches are located in Osaka, Tokyo, Nagoya, and Shimonoseki and also, the overseas branch is located in Malaysia for following-up of Southeast Asian clients. Experienced engineers provide a fast response to enquiries and deliver skilled reliable repairs and maintenance services for a single piece of equipment or your full process line.

Our Toll Processing business responds to customer’s specific production needs under strict quality control, based on various experiences 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 processing, such as small-scale test process for research and development, bridging production process until the start of equipment operation, and mass production process that replaces 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 formulations but also cosmetics, quasi-drugs, and 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^®,” utilizing PLGA nanocapsules. Currently, we are also promoting original design manufacturing (ODM) production and sales for various types of unique cosmetics, such as powdery serum and eyelash serum, etc., utilizing our PLGA nanocapsule technology.

This article highlights Hosokawa Micron Cosmetics Co., Ltd.’s cosmetic business, particularly the recent release of our new product, “NanoImpact Hybrid Spray (Black),” under the NanoImpact^® brand. The company operates two brands, NanoImpact^® for hair growth products and NanoCrysphere^® for cosmetics, both available online.

NanoImpact^® has actively promoted its hair growth product line, especially the 8th generation product, “Medicated NanoImpact^® 8,” launched in September 2022, utilizing various media channels to expand its customer base. The new “NanoImpact^® Hybrid Spray,” introduced in June 2023, serves as a “hair-thickening spray,” concealing thinning hair with fine silica particles adhering to each hair. It combines hair growth agents from “Medicated NanoImpact^® 8,” offering a hybrid function that cares for the scalp and hair while hiding thinning hair.

NanoCrysphere^®, specialized in cosmetics, achieved success with continuous sales of “Eyelash Serum,” renewed in September 2022. Additionally, we launched the new “NanoCrysphere powdery moist^®” in May 2023, a long-standing bestseller since 2008, featuring updated formulas with innovative ingredients for comprehensive anti-aging care.

Despite challenges from COVID-19 and market uncertainties, Hosokawa Micron Cosmetics remains dedicated to developing attractive products with our unique PLGA nanoparticle technology. Emphasizing collaboration within our organization, we aim to differentiate ourselves through innovative marketing and prompt responses to customer needs. Expanding products globally aligns with Hosokawa Micron Group’s commitment to worldwide expansion, ultimately benefiting the public’s quality of life through Nanoparticle Technology.

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.

Sustainability is an important and indispensable keyword for the survival and development of companies in a near-future society facing the problem of global warming. Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and tackling climate change issues, which previously had only been an issue for large corporations, now require the entire world to work together. As a company listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, we bear the responsibility to contribute to these global endeavors. To fulfill our role as a member of a sustainable society and become a company that prioritizes sustainability, we must address these issues through our business activities and implement measures to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To address sustainability as a company-wide activity, we have formed project teams with the help of external consultants. The first team developed a GHG emissions estimation model and conducted an emissions estimation study based on this model. Additionally, they proposed a materiality plan, which also serves as an action guideline for reducing GHG emissions. The second team analyzed climate change scenarios and proposed disclosures on the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) in accordance with the Corporate Governance Code. Both initiatives have received management approval and are now available on our website.

The article discusses the history and evolution of “The Micromeritics” journal, published by Hosokawa Micron Corporation (HMC). It reflects on its 67 issues spanning almost two-thirds of a century, from its first issue in 1957. The journal’s publication history can be divided into four periods, closely related to powder technology’s development, HMC, and the Council of Powder Technology, Japan (CPT). Starting with Issue No. 50 in 2006, the journal embraced digital publishing, introduced color printing in Issue No. 58. Issue No. 59 marked HMC’s 100th anniversary, and the journal was registered on J-STAGE in 2017, attracting a wide readership, including non-academic users. The journal has shown a keen interest in nanoparticle technology, and embraced a wide array of powder-related topics. Its future development is anticipated to continue contributing to the advancement of powder technology and its role in creating a sustainable society, alongside emerging trends in IoT, DX, and AI technologies for analysis and control.