Lithium–oxygen (Li–O₂) batteries have attracted considerable attention as prospective next-generation energy storage devices because of their highest theoretical energy density among all rechargeable batteries. Although fundamental researches focusing on the properties of the solid-state discharge products have been conducted to elucidate the factors that contribute to large charge overvoltages, many questions remain unanswered. In particular, due to the main discharge product being a peroxide, which cannot remain stable in the atmosphere, its formation process, properties, and the relationship between the surface structure and its reactivity are not fully understood. The present article aims to introduce the latest understanding of the reductive growth and oxidative decomposition processes of discharge products, particularly from a surface science perspective.

The behavior of materials at the sliding contact is extremely challenging to determine since the contact area is normally hidden from view. We therefore have developed a custom-designed apparatus that enables us to observe the actual contact area while simultaneously measuring the friction/normal forces. From this, we found the von Mises stress applied at the contact area at yield approach the ideal strength of Ag and 20 times higher than that for bulk Ag. The results strongly suggest that the actual contact area at the sliding point forms an amorphous layer and slides while deforming the layer. That indicates we may overestimate the actual contact area and underestimate the stress applied at the contact area if those results were not considered.

The local imaging technique, which is able to directly visualize the catalytic activity originating from the structural heterogeneity of the catalyst, is significantly required to provide the guidelines for the development of the new catalyst with an ability of efficient activity. Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) is one of the promising candidates because of the ability to obtain the distribution of redox activity on the sub-microscale by forming the meniscus on the sample surface using a nanopipette. We have so far developed single-barrel SECCM to further improve its spatial resolution. In addition, we have applied this technique to various catalysts, for instance, MoS₂ and SnS₂ nanosheets and TiO₂ nanotube. Here, we present the principle and setup of single-barrel SECCM and its applications to the chemistry of catalysis.

This report describes the usage, specification, troubles and the countermeasures of dry pumps in Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC). In J-PARC, while dry scroll pumps (DSP) are widely used, many of them are being replaced with roots pumps due to frequent maintenance and troubles of DSP. Some of the facilities use roots pumps with special specifications, such as radiation resistant specifications, separate power supply, and with diaphragm type, etc. Although some problems have occurred with both DSPs and roots pumps, they have been addressed by revising maintenance methods and improving parts, contributing to stable operation for users.

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) is widely used as one of the primary techniques for investigating the surface chemical composition of materials. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the demand to observe the electronic states associated with chemical reactions under operating conditions close to real environments, such as in fuel cells and catalytic materials. To address this need, Near Ambient Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (NAP-XPS) instruments have been developed and continuously improved. This article introduces atmospheric pressure photoelectron spectroscopy at pressures of several bars and provides data examples. Additionally, we present software technology designed to visualize spatiotemporal-resolved data expected to be obtained in the future using this measurement technique.