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Nanotechnology advancement in Japan

Japan has formed a Nanotechnology Group that researches on product formation and development using nanotechnology.

Nanotechnology uses the control of atoms and molecules in small scales to create new functions of materials, or extending and improving their characteristics. This technology is being used for research and product development in the fields of information technology (IT), biotechnology, electronics and mass commercial production. This technology is also used in the field of medicine to study certain medical topics and the prevention of side effects.

SPring-8: World's Most Powerful Radiation Facility

The SPring-8 Super Photonring 8GeV was created for the study of nanotechnology. Located in Harima Science Garden City, it is regarded as the world's most powerful synchrotron orbital radiation facility. Constructed in cooperation with the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute and the Institute of Physical and Chemical Research, SPring-8 contributes about ¥110 billion to Harima Science Garden City's income.

This institution analyzes the structure and properties of various materials, and the changes in the matter caused by conventional radiation. With these findings, SPring-8 is able to create major advancements in the field of science and medicine.

SPring-8 has 62 beam lines that can be used for research, 48 of which are already operational. The Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute and the Institute of Physical and Chemical Research are using three kinds of beam lines for further studies. Common beam lines can be used by researchers in Japan and from around the world, while some organizations can build an exclusive beam line for their own use.

Every six months, research can be made using the common beam line. Different organizations support these researches to promote the creation and use of materials and other equipment for different industries, as well as further studies in different research topics.

New SUBARU

Located in the Himeji Institute of Technology, the New SUBARU is one of the world-class medium-sized sychrotron orbital radiation facilities in the country. This institution, operational since January 2000, conducts research on ultramodern technology, primarily optical technology.

The New SUBARU uses the electron beam of SPring-8. It will accumulate 1.5 GeV from a beam line and uses it for research to support different industries.

All the stages of research can be done in the New SUBARU, from analysis to processing and trial of a product, making it very advantageous to many companies.

Aside from these facilities, the Hyogo Prefectural Advanced Technology Support Center (CAST HYOGO) is located in Harima Science Garden City, the center of the analysis and processing of materials using nanotechnology.