Research

Molecular Assembly Group pursues novel functional materials, useful & powerful processes, and device techniques for electronic/photonic devices, by exploiting the nature of self-assembling properties of organic compounds.
One of the features of the Group is the collaborative environment. Professionals from diverse backgrounds and experiences bring new perspectives in research projects. The followings are part of our research results.

Materials science and technology

We have been conducting basic research on materials for organic devices and smart materials for processing / manufacturing for the next generation. We have been explored materials such as photo-functional organic materials which drastically change their physical properties on photoirradiation. Generally, in the solid state, photochemical reactions with large deformation in molecular shape are difficult to take place, because of lack of free volume. We have found new molecules that exhibit drastically change their phase (solid / liquid) on photoirradiation. Also, we have designed materials whose luminescent property can be switched by light.

Technology for processing and manufacturing

We have been developing novel processing technologies taking advantage of self-assembly of organic molecules, and interaction between light and substances. For example, we have been studying nano-scale patterning by self-assembly of molecules on solid surface and its application for manufacturing processes. We have developed a method to improve the adhesiveness of plating layer and the patterning method by using white pulse light.

Technology for electronic / photonic devices

We have been developing novel electronic / photonic devices by using unique optical / physical properties of organic materials and by precisely controlling the molecular alignment / nano- or micro-structures of organic materials. For example, we have succeeded to fabricate the carbon nanotube transparent conductive film and we have shown its long-term stability of conductivity under open-air conditions. We have also developed a battery-driven small spectrophotometer that can send and receive data by wireless communication. Its portability opens up the possibility of a wide range of applications.