Shinsuke Inagi and Masaaki Kitano are FY2018 STAR grant recipients

• Research overview: Development of functional polymer materials based on bipolar electrochemistry

Although the principles of bipolar electrochemistry, where wireless electrodes (bipolar electrodes) that simultaneously manifest positive and negative poles are utilized, have been known for a long time, only recently has it been applied to chemical synthesis methods that use electric energy (electrons) as a reagent. It is once again attracting attention as a field for creating next-generation lightweight and flexible organic and polymeric materials. This classic yet new bipolar electrochemistry is making it possible to realize things such as technologies for patterning conductive polymers without wires, forming conductive polymer networks, and the development of gradient polymer materials that skillfully utilize electric potential distribution generated on the surface of bipolar electrodes, resulting in the proposal of never-before-seen technologies and materials.

Furthermore, by fusing it with redox (oxidation/reduction) chemistry in a broad sense, we are aiming to create new value in areas such as smart molecular conversion technology, energy conversion, and the construction of smart systems that precisely combine redox systems.

I am honored to be selected as a STAR recipient. Since I came to know about this interesting phenomenon called bipolar electrochemistry, I have been deeply immersed in and enjoying my research, and would like to show my appreciation to the students and joint researchers with whom I am engaging in this work. This support motivates me to work even harder on my research. I would like to thank all those who have provided support by contributing to the Tokyo Institute of Technology Fund.

• Research overview: Development of new solid catalysts containing electride or hydride compounds

Ammonia (NH₃) is commonly used as a raw material in nitrogen fertilizers, foods, and medicines. In recent years, it has attracted attention as a material for storing hydrogen energy, and demand is expected to increase. Currently, it is synthesized via the Haber–Bosch process, which uses a large amount of energy to cause nitrogen and hydrogen to react in a high-temperature and high-pressure environment. We developed new electrides and hydrides containing a high density of electrons and hydride ions in a crystalline framework, and using these, our aim is to create catalysts that activate nitrogen molecules at low temperature in order to achieve an ammonia yield that is superior to current industrial processes.

I am thankful at this time to be granted this Support for Tokyo Tech Advanced Researchers. I am more determined to develop my own research with this support, and I want to use it to achieve creative, world-class research achievements. In addition to achieving excellent results in fundamental research, I will strive to achieve practical applications through my research.