Environmentally Adaptive Interface Materials Research Group
We develop interface-functionalized materials—such as films and coatings—that control light and heat transmission at solid surfaces. These materials enhance visibility, predict potential hazards, and improve comfort. Our technologies contribute to safety and security, promote energy efficiency, and support a more sustainable future.
Group Research Theme
Liquid crystal materials that autonomously adjusts the amount of incident light in response to changes in ambient temperature.
We are developing a flexible optical device composed of a polymer matrix with dispersed liquid crystals, in which the switching between a transparent state (allowing light transmission) and a scattering/reflective state is triggered by temperature changes. This switching between colorless transparency and light scattering enables control of solar light transmittance.
Development of temperature-responsive light transmission control elements using polymer network liquid crystals
Polymeric materials that autonomously exhibits a visual change in response to hydrogen leakage.
We are developing a low-cost sheet material made from polymeric and inorganic materials that changes color upon reacting with hydrogen. By applying this sheet to hydrogen storage and transportation sites, rapid detection of hydrogen leakage can be achieved.
Reaction of hydrogen detection sheet
Staff Members
| position | name | |
|---|---|---|
| Leader, Group | URATA Chihiro |  0000-0003-2071-3828 |
| Chief Senior Researcher | HOZUMI Atsushi | 0000-0003-4375-3785 |
| Senior Researcher | KAKIUCHIDA Hiroshi | 0000-0002-0084-2545 |
| Senior Researcher | HU Chih-Wei | 0000-0001-9200-4444 |
| Senior Researcher | WAKABAYASHI Ryutaro | 0000-0003-4036-504X |
| Senior Researcher | KITA Ken'ichiro | 0000-0002-3150-6325 |
| Attached to Research Group | YAMADA Yasusei | 0000-0002-6514-6487 |
| Attached to Research Group | NISHIZAWA Kaori | 0000-0002-3143-1298 |
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