Background and Aims: Gas-phase particle synthesis enables the formation of unique microparticles and nanoparticles due to specific formation mechanisms, including particle generation from microdroplets and formation under non-equilibrium conditions through rapid quenching. This approach allows for the synthesis of distinctive structures such as aggregated nanoparticles, spherical particles, amorphous particles, core–shell structures, porous particles, hollow particles, and heterogeneous material composites. The aim of this study was to develop functional nanoparticles with controlled structures using aerosol-based methods and evaluate their performance in energy, environmental, and life science applications.

Methods and Results: We employed spray-based synthesis methods, including flame spray pyrolysis and spray drying, to achieve structural control of functional nanoparticles. For porous structure formation, Nb-doped SnO₂ (NTO) nanoparticles were synthesized using flame spray pyrolysis with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) particles as pore-forming templates. The resulting macroporous NTO particles demonstrated enhanced gas diffusion properties and achieved power generation performance comparable to carbon nanoparticles in polymer electrolyte fuel cells, with porosity increased from 12% to 36%. Three-way catalyst particles with controlled pore sizes (61–381 nm) showed improved CO oxidation performance, with 90% CO conversion achieved at lower temperatures due to enhanced mass transfer within the porous structures. For composite material development, cellulose nanofiber/iron oxide hybrid particles were successfully synthesized via spray drying, enabling magnetic separation while maintaining high negative surface charge (−50 mV) and biocompatibility for life science applications. Temperature optimization studies revealed that porous catalyst particles achieved 100% CO conversion at 130°C, representing a 170°C reduction compared to conventional aggregate particles. The magnetic hybrid particles demonstrated excellent recyclability, maintaining both binding capacity and magnetic responsiveness over multiple separation cycles without structural degradation.

Conclusions and Outlooks: Gas-phase structuring of nanoparticles offers significant potential for advanced material development through precise control of particle morphology and internal structure. Future challenges include: (1) numerical understanding of colloidal arrangement during solvent evaporation, (2) quantitative control of particle structure and function-based design, (3) integration of experimental approaches with AI-driven process science, (4) development of nanostructured particle–resin composites, and (5) scale-up processes for enhanced productivity. Japan’s advantages in nanomaterial availability position it well for pioneering next-generation particle development for advanced applications.

Background and Aims: Slurries in which fine particles are highly dispersed in liquid media are utilized in a wide range of material processing, including those in the fields of energy, environment, catalysis, and pharmaceuticals. Controlling the dispersion state and assembly structure of fine particles is key to improving the handleability of slurries and the performance of the final products. Herein, we review some examples of applying a partial complex of polyethyleneimine (PEI) and fatty acids as functional polymer dispersants to control particle dispersion and assembling behaviors in liquid media. Further, focusing on ceramic processing, we demonstrate that the particle dispersion/assembling control by functional polymer dispersants can be implemented in material microstructure control and three-dimensional structuring.

Methods and Results: A complex of PEI and fatty acids was simply prepared by mixing PEI and fatty acids in nonaqueous solvents. The designed PEI based complex was found to adsorb on various series of particles which enabled to improve the dispersion stability of multi-component slurries. In addition, particle assembling control was achieved through a strategic mixing sequence of the slurries containing PEI based complex. By utilizing this particle assembling technique, the microstructure control of ceramic green bodies comprised of Si and sintering aids, which were designed for post-reaction sintering process of Si₃N₄ ceramics, was successfully achieved to improve material properties. Further, interparticle photo-cross-linkable slurries can be designed by the leverage of free amine groups in PEI based complex fixed on particles as cross-linking reaction sites. The designed photocurable suspension played an important role in achieving rapid 3D structuring of densified and porous ceramic components.

Conclusions (Outlooks): Partial complex of PEI and fatty acids was designed as polymer dispersants possessing multifunctional properties enabling particle dispersion control, particle assembling, and provision of stimuli-responsive reaction sites. The designed functional polymer dispersant played an important role in microstructure control and 3D structuring of ceramic components. We believe that the present technology is expected to make a significant contribution to the continued evolution of powder-based processes in materials development.

Background and Aims: SiAlON phosphors are ceramic powders that exhibit luminescent properties when doped with cations like Eu²⁺. These materials are known for their high-temperature stability and durability, making them essential components in white LEDs used for lighting and display applications. Initially, SiAlON phosphors had low luminescence efficiency, but through optimization of chemical composition and manufacturing processes, their properties have significantly improved. This document explores the development and practical applications of α- and β-SiAlON phosphors, highlighting their role in enhancing the performance of LEDs in various fields, including turn signals and LCD backlights.

Methods and Results: The development of SiAlON phosphors involved optimizing their chemical composition and refining manufacturing processes to enhance luminescent properties. For α-SiAlON phosphors, various cations like Ca²⁺ and Eu²⁺ were added to improve luminescence efficiency and stability. The manufacturing process included mixing raw materials and firing them at high temperatures (1700–1900°C) in a nitrogen atmosphere. Adjustments in the composition parameters (m and n values) led to significant improvements in fluorescence intensity and peak wavelength. For β-SiAlON phosphors, the process involved higher firing temperatures (1950–2050°C) and post-treatment methods like heat and acid treatments to enhance internal quantum efficiency. These treatments resulted in a threefold increase in fluorescence intensity compared to initial values. Additionally, the study explored the effects of precursor particle morphology, sintering kinetics, and phase purity on the final phosphor performance. The use of α-SiAlON seed particles and controlled heating rates contributed to improved crystallinity and reduced grain boundary phases, which in turn enhanced quantum efficiency. For β-SiAlON, post-synthesis annealing in argon followed by acid treatment was found to remove defect-related absorptive species, leading to brighter and more stable green emission. The improved phosphors demonstrated better performance in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, making them suitable for applications in LEDs and displays.

Conclusions(Outlooks): The advancements in SiAlON phosphors have led to significant improvements in luminescence efficiency and durability, enabling their practical application in various fields such as turn signals and LCD backlights. The ongoing research aims to further enhance these materials’ properties, making them even more suitable for high-performance lighting and display technologies. Future developments will focus on optimizing chemical compositions and refining manufacturing processes to achieve even higher efficiency and broader application potential.

Background and Aims: Powder materials are extensively utilized not only as final products in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals but also as raw materials and intermediates in the manufacturing processes of various industrial products including battery materials and magnetic materials. Powder consists of an aggregate of solid particles, and controlling the structure of powder, such as particle dispersion state and granulation structure, is essential for material development and manufacturing. While wet grinding can achieve sub-micron particle sizes, it requires additional drying processes and wastewater treatment, making dry processing more economical for industrial-scale production. Recent advances in high-performance classifiers have enabled dry grinding to produce finer particles, and dry composite processing has emerged as an energy-saving and environmentally friendly method. This study aims to introduce examples of particle structure control through dry operations, focusing on particle size reduction and composite processing using our equipment.

Methods and Results: Three main dry processing technologies were investigated: fine grinding, high-speed classification, and dry composite processing. For fine grinding, Pulvis^®, a dry-type agitating media mill with an integrated classifier, successfully produced sub-micron silica particles by combining grinding and classification operations. High-speed classifiers mounted on jet mills achieved average particle sizes of approximately 0.5 μm with maximum particle sizes around 2 μm for silica grinding. Opposed jet mill AFG demonstrated effective disintegration of agglomerated particles while minimizing contamination and controlling fine particle generation through gas pressure adjustment. For composite processing, Nobilta^® dry particle composer was applied to battery materials and pharmaceuticals. In battery applications, silicon particles were surface-modified with solid electrolyte coatings, creating microporous structures that reduced volume changes during charge-discharge cycles. In pharmaceutical applications, mannitol granules were composited with finely ground ibuprofen, and dissolution behavior was controlled through surface coating with hardened castor oil powder.

Conclusions (Outlooks): This study demonstrates that dry processing operations offer significant advantages over wet methods, including elimination of binder requirements, no need for drying processes, and overall energy savings in manufacturing processes. The combination of advanced grinding equipment with high-performance classifiers enables continuous and efficient production of sub-micron particles while preventing reagglomeration. Dry composite processing proves particularly valuable for battery materials requiring high charge-discharge rates and pharmaceutical applications demanding controlled dissolution behavior. The binder-free nature of dry processing makes it especially suitable for battery material development, where contamination control is critical. As global demand for automotive battery materials continues to grow and pharmaceutical industries face increasing numbers of poorly soluble drugs, dry processing technologies are expected to find expanded applications. Future development efforts will focus on further improving the performance of dry processing equipment to meet evolving industrial requirements for advanced functional materials.

Background: If powders handled in industrial processes are flammable, there exists a risk of dust explosions and fires. Dust explosions cause severe damage through chain reactions, as explosion shock waves disperse accumulated dust to form additional dust clouds, leading to secondary explosions. The occurrence rate of dust explosions in crushing and dust collection processes is approximately 20% each, with particularly high probability in dust collection operations. Due to multiple interrelated factors—including not only the physical properties of the powders being handled, but also their particle size distribution, dispersion concentration in air, and humidity—it is difficult to regulate them uniformly through laws and regulations. Currently, there are no detailed regulations in Japan comparable to those in Europe and the United States. However, if a dust explosion occurs, penalties may be imposed for violations of the Industrial Safety and Health Act.

Filter-type Dust Collectors and Explosion Risks: Over 90% of dust collection equipment currently handled utilizes filter-type dust collectors. These devices employ felt fabric filters to capture particles larger than approximately 0.05 μm, with collected powder removed through pulse jet cleaning mechanisms. The cleaning process creates dust clouds that may reach concentrations above the lower explosion limit, posing explosion risks when ignition sources are present. Common ignition sources include static electricity, self-ignition, and external factors such as impact sparks from high-speed rotating components, friction heat from adhered powder growth, and hot particles from upstream processes.

Preventive Measures: Dust explosion countermeasures are categorized into ignition source prevention and damage mitigation strategies. Ignition source prevention includes spark removal/fire suppression, static electricity prevention, spark generation prevention, thorough maintenance management, and oxygen concentration control using inert gases. Damage mitigation measures include explosion venting (rupture discs, hinged panels), flame arresters, isolation valves, explosion-resistant design, explosion suppression systems, and facility cleaning protocols.

Case Studies and Implementation: Domestic implementation typically follows cost-effectiveness priorities, starting with anti-static measures, explosion-proof electrical equipment, and explosion venting. European installations demonstrate comprehensive approaches with explosion-resistant equipment rated for 1 MPa, complete with isolation valves and fire suppression systems for systematic dust explosion protection.

Conclusions: Despite the high explosion probability in dust collection processes, Japan requires enhanced safety measures considering material characteristics and installation environments to minimize accident risks and reduce post-explosion damage. This paper introduces the risks of dust explosions and countermeasures based on the principles and processes of filter-type dust collectors used in dust collection operations.

Background: Drying is a fundamental process in powder technology, involving the removal of moisture from materials through the application of heat. Industrial dryers vary widely in design and operating principles, and no single dryer type is universally applicable to all materials or processes. The selection of an appropriate dryer depends heavily on the physical properties of the raw material and the desired drying performance.

Classification of Dryers: This study categorizes dryers into two main types based on heating method—direct heating and indirect heating—and two types based on operation mode—continuous and batch. Direct heating dryers utilize convective heat transfer by exposing materials to hot air, while indirect heating dryers rely on conductive heat transfer through heated surfaces such as walls or paddles. Each type has distinct advantages and limitations depending on the material’s moisture content, stickiness, and sensitivity to temperature.

Dryer Models Introduced: Four representative dryers manufactured by Hosokawa Micron Corporation are introduced, each designed to address specific material properties and processing requirements through distinct heating mechanisms and operational modes:

• Drymeister^® H-type (DMR-H): A continuous direct heating dryer with strong dispersion capability, suitable for low-moisture powders and sticky materials.

• Nauta Mixer^®: A batch-type indirect heating dryer with vacuum and freeze-drying capabilities, ideal for heat-sensitive and solvent-containing materials.

• TorusDisc (TD): A versatile indirect heating dryer with a large heat transfer area, capable of both continuous and batch operation, suitable for resin drying and thermal treatment.

• Solidaire (SJ): A continuous indirect heating dryer with high thermal efficiency and adjustable paddle configurations, effective for crystallization and drying of chemical and polymer materials.

Conclusion: By analyzing the structural features, drying mechanisms, and material compatibility of each dryer, this report provides practical guidance for selecting suitable drying equipment. The classification framework and case studies presented herein aim to support engineers and researchers in optimizing drying processes for diverse industrial applications. These insights facilitate cost-effective equipment selection and enhanced process efficiency in powder processing operations.

Background: The fluidized bed opposed jet mill AFG has been widely utilized in industries requiring fine particles while avoiding metal contamination since its commercial launch by Hosokawa Alpine in 1981, with over 1,000 systems delivered worldwide. With increasing demands for ultrafine grinding in electronics and other high-tech industries, the need for submicron-scale particle production has intensified. To address this requirement, AFG-CR was developed in 2014, featuring a high-performance CR-type classification rotor superior to the conventional ATP-type rotor. Subsequently, AFG-CRS was introduced in 2017, maintaining the ultrafine classification capabilities while improving disassembly and maintenance characteristics.

Objective: This study presents the installation and evaluation of a 400/4AFG-CRS test facility at Hosokawa Micron Corporation’s Test Center in Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture. This equipment represents the most commonly delivered scale in Japan and operates at a scale close to actual production equipment, enabling more reliable scale-up data acquisition.

Equipment and Methods: The 400/4AFG-CRS system comprises a raw material feeder, AFG main unit, pulse jet collector, blower, and grinding air compressor. The grinding mechanism utilizes high-pressure gas ejected from opposing nozzles to create particle-to-particle collisions without impact plates, minimizing contamination. The facility is equipped with multiple classification rotor options, including four 150CRS rotors capable of achieving finer classification points compared to conventional ATP-type rotors. Performance evaluation was conducted using talc, graphite, and ground calcium carbonate as test materials.

Results: Comparative testing demonstrated that CRS-type rotors achieved significantly finer particle sizes than ATP-type rotors. For talc grinding, the minimum average particle diameter reached 0.9 μm with CRS rotors compared to 1.8 μm with ATP rotors, while maintaining equivalent grinding efficiency. Similar improvements were observed for graphite and calcium carbonate processing, confirming the superior ultrafine grinding capabilities of the AFG-CRS system.

Conclusion: The newly installed 400/4AFG-CRS test facility provides a near-production-scale testing environment that significantly reduces scale-up risks. The enhanced classification performance enables the production of submicron particles while maintaining the inherent advantages of opposed jet mills, including minimal contamination and high wear resistance. This facility strengthens the company’s capability to meet diverse industrial needs for ultrafine particle processing across various applications.

Background and Aims: Powder technology plays a crucial role in modern industrial products across diverse fields including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, ceramics, and electronic materials. In electrophotographic technology particularly, the charging characteristics of toner particles have a decisive impact on print quality, making accurate evaluation of particle charging properties essential. The conventional Faraday cage method, which has been widely used, has significant limitations as it only measures the average charge amount of the entire sample and cannot determine the charge distribution of individual particles or the correlation with particle size. This study aims to introduce the particle size and charge distribution analyzer “E-SPART Analyzer^®” (EST), which enables charge measurement at the individual particle level to address these challenges, and to demonstrate its measurement principles and applications.

Methods and Results: EST simultaneously measures particle size and charge amount of individual particles using acoustic and electric fields formed within a measurement cell. Particle size measurement utilizes phase lag caused by particle inertia in an acoustic vibration field, while charge measurement employs precise laser Doppler measurement of charged particle deflection phenomena in an electric field. In experiments with two-component toner concentration changes, a clear shift of the charge distribution toward zero was observed as toner concentration increased from 2% to 6%. This is attributed to the relative decrease in triboelectric charging opportunities for individual toner particles due to the increased number of toner particles per carrier. Scatter plot visualization enabled intuitive understanding of the correlation between charge amount and particle size, as well as distribution characteristics, demonstrating the acquisition of detailed charging property information that cannot be obtained through conventional bulk measurements.

Conclusions (Outlooks): EST represents the world’s only individual particle charge measurement technology, having been utilized for over 30 years since its commercial launch in 1987 with more than 100 units sold. Development of next-generation EST is currently underway, featuring significant miniaturization for portability, improved mechanical stability through semiconductor laser adoption, and enhanced measurement accuracy and operability through digitalization. As interest in the impact of particle charging characteristics on product quality continues to grow, the value of precise charging property evaluation technology is expected to increase further, and EST is anticipated to continue contributing to the advancement of powder technology.

Lignin, an abundant aromatic biopolymer, is primarily generated as a by-product from industrial processes such as kraft pulping and lignocellulosic bioethanol production. Traditionally, lignin has been utilized as a combustion fuel for process heat recovery; however, this approach contributes to CO₂ emissions and offers limited value in the context of a carbon-neutral economy. With growing societal and industrial interest in sustainable materials and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, lignin is increasingly recognized as a promising renewable feedstock for a variety of high-value applications, including energy storage, construction materials, cosmetics, and polymer composites.

To effectively utilize lignin in such applications, it is essential to precisely control its physicochemical characteristics, particularly particle size and morphology, which directly influence dispersion, reactivity, and processability. Due to lignin’s complex, variable structure and flammability, advanced powder processing technologies are required to ensure both functional performance and operational safety.

This paper introduces a comprehensive approach to lignin powder processing, focusing on two core technologies: fine grinding and dry granulation. For the fine grinding of lignin to particle sizes suitable for applications such as films or fillers in thermoplastic composites—typically requiring a d₉₇ below 10 μm—jet milling systems are employed to ensure high-precision production of ultrafine particles with a narrow particle size distribution. In particular, the fluidized bed opposed jet mill (AFG) developed by Hosokawa Alpine has been demonstrated as an effective technology for achieving the desired specifications.

For coarser applications (e.g., d₉₇ ≈ 20–30 μm), impact classifier mills such as the ACM Pulverizer^® offer an energy-efficient alternative. Experimental data presented in this study demonstrate how particle size and energy consumption are interrelated and highlight the importance of process selection based on target application.

Additionally, to address challenges related to handling, dusting, and bulk density, dry agglomeration using roll compactors has been implemented. This technique produces dust-free, free-flowing granules or briquettes that facilitate storage, transport, and downstream processing.

The integration of powder technologies enables the functional conversion of lignin into industrially viable forms, thereby supporting its transition from a waste stream to a valuable resource. This work emphasizes the role of particle engineering in realizing lignin’s potential as a key material in a circular, low-carbon economy.

Background and Aims: In contemporary society, skincare and haircare have gained more attention, accelerated by the widespread adoption of online interactions and social media. Meanwhile, concerns such as skin dryness, wrinkle formation, and hair loss remain common issues, so more effective solutions are needed. We developed functional materials based on our proprietary poly (lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NP) technology to address these issues.

Methods and Results: Functional ingredients for improving skin barrier function, reducing wrinkles, and promoting hair growth were respectively encapsulated within PLGA NP. In vitro assays and monitor trials were conducted to verify their efficacy.

a) To enhance skin hydration, it is essential to improve the skin barrier function, which protects against external stimuli and retains moisture. We evaluated PLGA capsulex^® BasicCare, which encapsulates ingredients that support this function. Cellular assays demonstrated that BasicCare enhanced keratinocyte activation by 1.3-fold and upregulated the expression of genes associated with skin barrier function by 2.8-fold compared to the untreated group. Furthermore, skin hydration increased 2.7-fold, as confirmed by a monitor test.

b) For wrinkle reduction, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin—key proteins responsible for skin elasticity—is crucial, as fibroblasts play a role in their synthesis. We examined PLGA capsulex^® AgingCare, which encapsulates ingredients with wrinkle-improving effects. Cellular assays showed that fibroblast proliferation increased 1.4-fold in the AgingCare-treated group, leading to an at least 1.2-fold increase in collagen and elastin production. In addition, a five-week monitor trial demonstrated that the number of wrinkles decreased following continuous use of AgingCare.

c) Hair dermal papilla cells regulate hair follicle regeneration and the normal hair cycle transition, making their activation crucial for hair growth. We evaluated PLGA capsulex^® HairCare, which contains an ingredient with papilla cell-activating effects. Results showed a 1.4-fold increase in papilla cell proliferation in the HairCare-treated group. Gene expression levels involved in promoting hair growth were 2.8-fold higher than those in the untreated group.

Conclusions: The functional materials demonstrated significant effects in addressing specific skin and hair-related concerns. PLGA NP-treated groups exhibited significantly higher gene and protein expression levels compared to the untreated group and the functional component alone. These findings suggest that PLGA NP technology enhances cosmetic efficacy through its superior permeability and sustained release properties. Future challenges include more detailed efficacy verification and expanding applications to address additional beauty concerns. Overall, this research highlights the potential of nanotechnology in cosmetic science.

This paper introduces the “Auto Sampler”, an automatic pretreatment equipment designed specifically for the dynamic image analyzer, Parshe Analyzer^®. By simply placing up to 12 powder or slurry samples into designated cups, the system automatically performs a series of processes including dispersant addition, stirring, ultrasonic dispersion, liquid feed, measurement, and cleaning. The implementation of this system significantly improves measurement reproducibility, enhances operational efficiency, and eliminates human error. Furthermore, it supports data integrity compliance, which is increasingly emphasized in the pharmaceutical industry.

Nanoral^® Whitening & Protection Gel Toothpaste, initially launched in March 2024, now offers a larger 90 g version in response to user demand for more generous, family-friendly use. It features IPMP encapsulated in PLGA nanocapsules, enabling deep penetration into biofilm and sustained antibacterial action. CPC provides fast-acting sterilization, while β-Glycyrrhetinic acid reduces gum inflammation. This advanced formula targets four major oral issues—periodontal disease, bad breath, whitening, and cavities. With eco-friendly shrink packaging and improved usability, Nanoral^® supports daily oral health and contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.

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 having DDS (Drug Delivery System) characteristics. The PLGA nanoparticles 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 both a functional skincare cosmetic brand “NanoCrysphere^®” and a haircare brand “NanoImpact^®” with the PLGA nanoparticles. Currently, we are also promoting ODM productions and sales for various types of unique cosmetics such as powdery serum and eyelash serum, etc., utilizing our PLGA nanoparticle technology.

Hosokawa Micron has been importing and selling powder coating machines using environmentally friendly “Powder coatings” since 1979 from the 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 oversprayed (unpainted) powder can be efficiently recovered and reused.

Hosokawa Micron (Shanghai) Powder Machinery Co., Ltd. (HMS), the Hosokawa Micron Group’s exclusive China subsidiary, delivers advanced powder processing solutions to the Chinese pharmaceutical industry. HMS not only prioritizes emerging applications but also places strong emphasis on local after-sales support, helping drive the industry toward greater quality and efficiency.

Amid growing global environmental and social challenges, sustainability has become increasingly important. Hosokawa Micron and its group companies aim to contribute to a sustainable society through powder technology, aligning with ESG principles. In 2023, we established the Sustainability Management Committee and Working Groups, followed by the launch of a new Sustainability Promotion Office in 2024 to accelerate company-wide efforts. We remain committed to integrating sustainability into our business and delivering long-term value.

Wagner-Hosokawa Micron Ltd. has relocated to a new headquarters in Hirakata City, Osaka, to support its growing powder coating equipment business. The new four-story steel structure integrates previously separated facilities, including offices, warehouses, and testing areas, enhancing operational efficiency. As a joint venture between Hosokawa Micron and Germany’s Wagner Group, the company promotes environmentally friendly powder coating technology, aligning with SDGs. The vibrant building design reflects the company’s dynamic spirit and commitment to employee motivation. With this move, Hosokawa Micron Wagner aims to further expand its business and strengthen its presence in the Japanese market.

On July 24, 2024, 28 students who majored in chemical engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e, Eindhoven, The Netherlands) visited HMC’s Osaka headquarters as part of their three-week international study tour across Asia. The visit, arranged through HMC’s Netherlands subsidiary, Hosokawa Micron B.V. (HMBV), aimed to provide insights into Japanese industry and culture. The program included presentations by HMC executives and members of the Hosokawa English Program, covering the company’s technologies and career opportunities in Japan. A lively Q&A session followed and extended beyond scheduled time, reflecting the students’ strong interest. During lunch, students and Hosokawa English Program members engaged in cultural exchange over traditional Japanese dishes such as tempura and sushi. Many students experienced Japanese cuisine for the first time, showing genuine appreciation for the cultural experience. The event concluded with a farewell speech by President Kohei Hosokawa. While students gained valuable knowledge about chemical engineering careers in Japan and at HMC, HMC employees benefited from practicing English and interacting with international guests. The exchange fostered mutual understanding and inspired HMC staff to further improve their language skills. Participants showed increased confidence and motivation in English learning, with hopes that this initiative will inspire more employees to pursue language improvement.

The 57th Symposium on Powder Technology, hosted by the Hosokawa Powder Technology Foundation, was held in Tokyo and online on September 3, 2025. Centered on “Structural Control of Powders and Their Applications in Advanced Fields”, the event featured six lectures, including the KONA Award commemorative lecture by Prof. Anthony J. Hickey. Topics ranged from aerosol drug delivery systems to particle structure control in gas and liquid phases, and industrial applications such as phosphors, solid electrolytes, and dry processing. About 260 participants joined from academia and industry. The symposium concluded with a networking reception. The KONA Award ceremony honored Prof. Hickey as the 39th recipient. The next symposium is scheduled for September 2026 in Osaka.