A new starting point for academic research is born from the wisdom of those who are willing to address the issues that prevent the limits of current performance.
Visualization and free control of the energy landscape of the interphase ion diffusion field formed at the electrode and electrolyte interface
Taking on the challenge of developing new power storage materials and interface technologies based on the guiding principles of
"utilization of metastable phase interfaces" and "utilization of continuous media"
Prospective International Students Prospective International Students
For research-related inquiries, please contact:
Prof. Nobuyuki Zettsu
Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG)
Shinshu University
zettsu@shinshu-u.ac.jp
Please attach your CV and academic transcript when making your first inquiry.
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We welcome highly motivated students from around the world who are interested in advanced research on rechargeable batteries, solid-state ionics, electrochemical energy storage, computational materials science, and sustainable materials.
The Zettsu Laboratory currently accepts international graduate students through the following programs at Shinshu University.
The Graduate Program in Aqualogy is a newly established international graduate program focusing on water, hydrogen, and sustainable energy technologies.
Integrated 5-year Master's–Doctoral program
All lectures, research supervision, and academic activities are conducted entirely in English
Comprehensive financial support is available, including exemption from the application fee, admission fee, and tuition (subject to program regulations)
Enrollment begins in April 2027 or Octorber 2027
The Zettsu Laboratory also welcomes applications from students wishing to pursue a Ph.D. degree through the Graduate School of Science and Technology.
Research topics include: Lithium-ion batteries, Sodium-ion batteries, All-solid-state batteries, Solid electrolytes, High-entropy materials, Mixed-anion materials, AI- and data-driven materials discovery, Computational materials science
Multi-layer structure control of electrochemical phase interface
Free control of the energy landscape formed in the ion diffusion field
Energy storage materials and interface technologies based
on atomic and molecular technologies
-Energy density, rapid charge / discharge characteristics, and long-term cycle characteristics are established by forming a superion conduction path.-
July 30, 2025
To address global water challenges and contribute to the realization of a hydrogen-based society, Shinshu University will launch the new Graduate Program in Aqualogy.
Applications for students enrolling in April 2027 will open soon, and the admission guidelines are scheduled to be released in September 2026.
The Graduate Program in Aqualogy is an integrated Master's–Doctoral program (the doctoral program is planned to be established in 2029, subject to official approval). To prepare students for global careers, all lectures, research supervision, and academic activities are conducted entirely in English. The program also provides comprehensive financial support, including exemption from the application fee, admission fee, and tuition, enabling students to devote themselves fully to research.
Building upon Shinshu University's internationally recognized strengths in materials research related to water, energy, and the environment, as well as its selection for Japan's national J-PEAKS initiative, the program aims to educate highly skilled researchers and professionals capable of addressing pressing global challenges.
We define research fields related to the regeneration of the global environment through water—including water recycling, the production of green hydrogen from water, and hydrogen utilization technologies—as the field of Aqua Regeneration. Shinshu University is committed to advancing research excellence in this interdisciplinary field.
The Graduate Program in Aqualogy is the only educational program in Japan centered on Aqua Regeneration, pioneering the future of water, hydrogen, and sustainable energy through interdisciplinary education and research.
For more information, please visit the website of the Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG):
https://www.shinshu-u.ac.jp/institution/arg/academics/#daigakuin
October 1, 2021
It was adopted in the 2021 JST-CREST "Free Arrangement System".
Problem name: "Multi-layer structure control of solid-liquid electrochemical phase interface"
research summary:
(1) "Utilization of semi-stable phase interface by increasing configuration entropy" brought about by multi-elementization and compounding, and (2) Characteristics, polymolecularness, and orientation control of liquid crystal polymer as a dynamic continuum medium Multi-order solid-liquid electrochemistry with controlled energy interface based on the guiding principle of "utilization of a dynamic continuum medium in which the periodicity of stabilized heterogeneous potential and hierarchical structure changes continuously" brought about by We will work on the formation of the phase interface and the dynamics control of the ion diffusion between the phases.
February 28, 2025
Our research project has been selected for the 2025 Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (A) (KAKENHI), funded by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).
Project Title
Establishing the Fundamental Principles of High-Entropy Solid–Solid Interfacial Ionics
The ionic conductivity of solid electrolytes is governed by their constituent elements, chemical composition, atomic arrangement, and crystal structure. At solid–solid interfaces, where crystal structures become distorted and atomic ordering is disrupted, ionic conductivity is often more than two orders of magnitude lower than that of the bulk material. Furthermore, at dynamic solid–solid interfaces involving ion diffusion, continuous formation of resistive interfacial layers caused by local variations in ion concentration eventually suppresses ion transport.
This project aims to establish the fundamental principles of high-entropy solid–solid interfacial ionics by exploiting the unique effects of multicomponent high-entropy materials to precisely control ionic transport across solid interfaces. Using multi-element substituted garnet-type solid electrolytes as model materials, we will combine advanced interfacial characterization techniques—including electron microscopy and quantum beam analysis-with large-scale computational simulations.
By correlating ionic transport properties with local lattice strain and its spatial fluctuations (mean atomic displacement) derived from experimental and computational data, we seek to establish a new theoretical framework for understanding and designing high-entropy solid–solid interfaces with enhanced ion transport. The outcomes of this project are expected to provide fundamental design principles for next-generation solid-state electrolytes and all-solid-state batteries.
This project is conducted in collaboration with:
Prof. Michihisa Koyama, Shinshu University
Dr. Kohei Suda, Nagoya University
December 26, 2024
Our collaborative research project has been selected for Phase C of the FY2024 "Technology Development Project for the Discovery and Commercialization of New Energy and Other Technology Seeds", supported by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).
Project Title
Commercialization of a Polyimide Binder for Silicon-Based Anodes to Achieve a 30% Increase in the Capacity of Next-Generation Rechargeable Batteries
Silicon (Si) anodes are among the most promising materials for increasing the energy density of rechargeable batteries. However, their practical application has been hindered by rapid capacity degradation caused by the large volume expansion and contraction of silicon during charge–discharge cycling.
This project aims to develop a high-strength polyimide binder capable of suppressing the volume changes of silicon while remaining compatible with existing battery manufacturing processes operating at temperatures below 160°C. Based on WINGO Technology's proprietary low-temperature imidization and functional soluble polyimide synthesis technology, the project will also strengthen the conductive network within silicon anodes, which intrinsically exhibit low electrical conductivity.
The developed binder will be validated in prototype batteries by demonstrating more than 300 charge–discharge cycles with a capacity retention of at least 80% for silicon-based anodes. Because the binder can be introduced without modifying existing manufacturing equipment or battery materials, the project is expected to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation rechargeable batteries and contribute to the advancement of the battery industry.
This project is conducted in collaboration with WINGO Technology Co., Ltd.
September 21, 2023
Our research project has been selected for the 2023 JSPS Fund for the Promotion of Joint International Research (International Collaborative Research) under the Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (KAKENHI) program.
Project Title
Active Control of Ion Diffusion Dynamics at Electrolyte/Electrode Interfaces through Mixed-Anion Surface Engineering
We have proposed a mixed-anion surface engineering strategy as a novel approach to modifying electrode materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. This technology aims to achieve outstanding safety, long cycle life, rapid charging capability over a wide temperature range, and high-power performance under diverse operating conditions.
A major limitation in realizing the full performance of lithium-ion batteries is the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), where significant energy losses occur. Therefore, precise control of SEI formation is essential for the development of next-generation batteries.
In this project, we will employ mixed-anion surface engineering to control the selective adsorption and orientation of solvated lithium ions and electrolyte molecules, thereby establishing protocols for forming SEI layers with precisely tailored composition, thickness, and porous structure.
Through collaboration with an international partner possessing state-of-the-art operando multiphysics characterization techniques, we aim to elucidate the dynamic ion-exchange reactions and SEI formation processes under applied electric fields—an area that has remained largely unexplored. The knowledge gained from this research will establish new design principles for solid–liquid electrochemical interfaces, enabling lithium-ion batteries to surpass their current performance limits.
This project is conducted in collaboration with Prof. Nicolas Louvain,
Institut Charles Gerhardt Montpellier (ICGM),
ENSCM (École Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Montpellier), France.
July 13, 2026
Prof. Nobuyuki Zettsu contributed to the preparation of the handbook entitled "Safe Use of Mobile Devices Equipped with Lithium-Ion Batteries", published by the Mobile Computing Promotion Consortium (MCPC). The handbook provides practical guidance on the safe selection, use, storage, and disposal of lithium-ion battery-powered mobile devices to help prevent battery-related accidents and fires.
As a specialist in lithium-ion battery materials and safety, Prof. Zettsu provided technical expertise on battery structure, failure mechanisms, and safety considerations, contributing to the scientific accuracy of the handbook. The publication is intended to promote the safe and responsible use of lithium-ion battery-powered products among consumers and industry.
The handbook is available on the MCPC website:
Safe Use of Mobile Devices Equipped with Lithium-Ion Batteries.
July 19, 2026
Prof. Nobuyuki Zettsu contributed as a scientific advisor to an article in Asahi Shimbun's popular science series "Nono-chan's DO Science", titled "Is It Bad to Charge Your Smartphone Repeatedly?"
The article explains the fundamentals of lithium-ion batteries in an easy-to-understand manner for children and general readers. It addresses common questions about smartphone charging habits, battery degradation, and practical ways to extend battery life while maintaining safe operation.
Drawing on his expertise in lithium-ion battery materials and electrochemistry, Prof. Zettsu provided scientific explanations of battery aging mechanisms, charging behavior, and best practices for the safe and effective use of rechargeable batteries.
Article (Asahi Shimbun Digital):
https://digital.asahi.com/articles/ASV770RB8V77UTFL00VM.html?iref=pc_ss_date_article
July 6–7, 2026
Prof. Nobuyuki Zettsu and Associate Professor Tien Quang Nguyen presented their latest research at the Data-Driven Materials Science Workshop 2026 Summer Meeting.
The presentations highlighted the integration of data-driven materials informatics, machine learning, first-principles calculations, and experimental materials design for the development of next-generation lithium-ion battery cathode materials.
(1) Tien Quang Nguyen, Nobuyuki Zettsu, Michihisa Koyama
Data-Driven Screening of High-Entropy Ni-Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes: From Neural Network Potential Screening to First-Principles Mechanistic Understanding
This presentation introduced a data-driven framework for discovering high-entropy Ni-rich layered oxide cathodes by combining neural network potential (NNP) screening with first-principles calculations to reveal the underlying mechanisms governing structural stability and electrochemical performance.
(2) Nobuyuki Zettsu, Yinxu Sun, Shunsuke Narumi, Tien Quang Nguyen, Michihisa Koyama
Composition Design and Control of c-Axis Contraction in LiNi₀.₈TM₀.₂O₂ Cathodes for Suppressing Stress Accumulation Associated with the H2–H3 Phase Transition
This presentation reported a composition design strategy for Ni-rich layered oxide cathodes that suppresses stress accumulation during the H2–H3 phase transition through precise control of c-axis contraction, contributing to improved structural stability and cycling performance.
April 20, 2026 | 16:00–17:00
Prof. Nobuyuki Zettsu delivered an invited webinar entitled "Data-Driven Research for Multi-Element Energy Storage Materials Development", organized by the Data-Driven Materials Science Workshop.
As the compositional space of multi-element substituted energy storage materials continues to expand, data-driven materials research has become an increasingly powerful approach for accelerating materials discovery and optimization.
In this lecture, Prof. Zettsu introduced recent research from his laboratory on multi-element substituted layered rock-salt cathodes and spinel-type battery materials. By integrating experimental characterization, first-principles calculations, and machine learning, the research reveals key factors governing electrochemical reaction dynamics, including local structural disorder, modulation of site potential distributions, and the transition from two-phase to solid-solution reactions through the incorporation of elements such as Sc, Fe, Si, Ti, and Ge.
The lecture also presented recent advances in data-driven composition design and interface engineering of oxide solid electrolytes, highlighting strategies for achieving high ionic conductivity and stable solid-state interfaces.
Finally, Prof. Zettsu discussed a closed-loop research framework that combines experimental data, computational modeling, and machine learning to establish new design principles for next-generation energy storage materials beyond conventional trial-and-error approaches.
April 15, 2026
Prof. Nobuyuki Zettsu delivered an online seminar entitled "Fundamentals, Recent Advances, Current Challenges, and Future Prospects of Sodium-Ion Batteries", organized by Joho Kiko Co., Ltd.
Driven by concerns over the uneven distribution of lithium resources, rising raw material costs, and the growing importance of energy security, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted worldwide attention as one of the most promising post-lithium energy storage technologies. Offering advantages such as improved safety, excellent low-temperature performance, and the use of abundant, low-cost materials, sodium-ion batteries are rapidly approaching large-scale commercial deployment.
This seminar provided a comprehensive introduction to sodium-ion battery technology, beginning with the motivation for its development, fundamental cell configuration, operating principles, and key advantages and limitations compared with lithium-ion batteries.
The seminar then reviewed recent advances in layered oxide and Prussian white cathode materials, highlighting the latest research and industrial development trends in Japan and abroad. It also introduced recent progress in hard carbon anodes, focusing on sodium storage mechanisms and materials design strategies for achieving high capacity and long cycle life.
In addition, Prof. Zettsu discussed the development of carbon nanotube (CNT) binder technology, which enables both high durability and fast charge–discharge performance, and its potential for next-generation sodium-ion batteries.
Finally, the seminar examined the remaining scientific and technological challenges facing sodium-ion battery commercialization and presented future perspectives for promising applications. By integrating advances in materials science, electrochemistry, and battery engineering, the seminar outlined the future direction of sodium-ion batteries as a low-cost, reliable, and sustainable energy storage technology for next-generation applications.
April 15, 2026
Prof. Nobuyuki Zettsu delivered an online seminar entitled "Fundamentals, Recent Advances, Current Challenges, and Future Prospects of Sodium-Ion Batteries", organized by Joho Kiko Co., Ltd.
Driven by concerns over the uneven distribution of lithium resources, rising raw material costs, and the growing importance of energy security, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted worldwide attention as one of the most promising post-lithium energy storage technologies. Offering advantages such as improved safety, excellent low-temperature performance, and the use of abundant, low-cost materials, sodium-ion batteries are rapidly approaching large-scale commercial deployment.
This seminar provided a comprehensive introduction to sodium-ion battery technology, beginning with the motivation for its development, fundamental cell configuration, operating principles, and key advantages and limitations compared with lithium-ion batteries.
The seminar then reviewed recent advances in layered oxide and Prussian white cathode materials, highlighting the latest research and industrial development trends in Japan and abroad. It also introduced recent progress in hard carbon anodes, focusing on sodium storage mechanisms and materials design strategies for achieving high capacity and long cycle life.
In addition, Prof. Zettsu discussed the development of carbon nanotube (CNT) binder technology, which enables both high durability and fast charge–discharge performance, and its potential for next-generation sodium-ion batteries.
Finally, the seminar examined the remaining scientific and technological challenges facing sodium-ion battery commercialization and presented future perspectives for promising applications. By integrating advances in materials science, electrochemistry, and battery engineering, the seminar outlined the future direction of sodium-ion batteries as a low-cost, reliable, and sustainable energy storage technology for next-generation applications.
Throughout 2025, the Zettsu Laboratory welcomed distinguished researchers and industry experts from academia and industry to share their latest research, technological innovations, and career experiences. We sincerely thank all of our speakers for their valuable contributions.
April 28
"Advanced Functionalization of Insertion Materials and Their Applications in Rechargeable Batteries"
Prof. Naoaki Yabuuchi, Yokohama National University
October 16
"Exploring Career Paths After Graduate School"
Mr. Takeshi Kishimoto, ScienceCo Specialty Polymers Japan K.K.
October 23
"Industrial Applications of Carbon Nanotubes"
Mr. Tsuyoshi Hashimoto, Meijo Nano Carbon Co., Ltd.
October 30
"The Fourth State of Matter: Liquid Crystals — Beyond Display Technologies"
Prof. Hiroshi Shimizu, Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG), Shinshu University
November 13
"A Textile Platform for the Development of Wearable Devices"
Prof. Mutsumi Kimura, Faculty of Textile Science and Technology, Shinshu University
November 21
"Understanding Structure–Property Relationships from Local Structures: Materials Design through Chemical Pressure"
Prof. Tomohito Sudare, The University of Tokyo
December 4
"Hydrogen Utilization Business at Toyota Tsusho Corporation"
Mr. Tadao Minamikawa, Toyota Tsusho Corporation
December 11
"Plasma-Enabled Manufacturing: From One-of-a-Kind to World-Leading Technologies"
Prof. Kazuya Yamamura, Osaka University
December 23
"Towards Crystal Structure Determination of Unknown Materials by Combining AI-Based Space Group Prediction (SpgVolNet) with Le Bail Analysis"
Dr. Hiroyuki Ozaki, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)
The Zettsu Laboratory Seminar Series provides an interdisciplinary forum where students and researchers can interact with leading experts from universities, research institutes, and industry. Covering topics ranging from battery materials, hydrogen technologies, nanomaterials, and AI-driven materials discovery to advanced manufacturing and career development, the seminar series aims to broaden scientific perspectives and foster future collaborations.
October 20, 2025
We are pleased to welcome Dr. Tsutomu Teraoka to the Zettsu Laboratory as a Specially Appointed Professor.
Dr. Teraoka has extensive experience in both fundamental and industrial research on advanced electronic materials, having worked for many years at Seiko Epson Corporation and other research organizations. His career spans the entire research and development process, from basic materials science to technology commercialization.
In recent years, Dr. Teraoka has made significant contributions to the development of oxide-based solid electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries. His expertise in solid-state ionics, materials design, and battery technology will further strengthen the laboratory's research activities.
As a Specially Appointed Professor in the Prof. Zettsu PI Unit of the Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG), Dr. Teraoka will play a leading role in research on all-solid-state batteries, with particular emphasis on both oxide- and sulfide-based solid electrolytes and their interfaces.
We warmly welcome Dr. Teraoka and look forward to the exciting research opportunities that his expertise will bring to the laboratory.
October 1, 2025
We are delighted to welcome Dr. Kei Nishikawa to the Zettsu Laboratory as a Specially Appointed Associate Professor through Shinshu University's Cross-Appointment Program.
Dr. Nishikawa serves as a Principal Researcher in the Rechargeable Battery Materials Group, Battery Materials Division, Research Center for Energy and Environmental Materials (GREEN) at the National Institute for Materials Science.
His research has focused on enabling the practical use of lithium metal anodes, one of the most promising next-generation battery technologies. His achievements include controlling the metallurgical properties of lithium metal, nanoscale characterization of electrode surfaces, and elucidating lithium mass transport phenomena during charge–discharge cycling. Through these studies, Dr. Nishikawa has made significant contributions to advancing the understanding of lithium metal batteries.
As a Specially Appointed Associate Professor in the Prof. Zettsu PI Unit of the Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG), Dr. Nishikawa will play an important role in both the management of the research unit and the supervision of laboratory activities.
His expertise is expected to make a particularly strong impact on research involving single-particle electrochemical measurements, advanced battery reaction analysis, and all-solid-state battery technologies. We look forward to the new research opportunities and collaborations that his participation will bring to the laboratory.
September 1, 2025
We are pleased to welcome Dr. Hideaki Katayama to the Zettsu Laboratory as a Specially Appointed Professor.
Dr. Katayama has built an outstanding career in the battery industry, serving in key positions including Deputy General Manager of the Battery Innovation Department, New Business Headquarters, Maxell, Ltd. Throughout his career, he has been engaged in all stages of battery research and development, from fundamental materials research to product development and commercialization.
In recent years, Dr. Katayama has made significant contributions to the development of sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries, particularly for compact battery applications. His extensive industrial experience and expertise in advanced battery technologies will greatly strengthen the laboratory's research and industry collaboration activities.
As a Specially Appointed Professor in the Prof. Zettsu PI Unit of the Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG), Dr. Katayama will play a central role in research on sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries. He will also contribute to the development of next-generation lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, with particular emphasis on silicon-based anodes and hard carbon anodes.
We warmly welcome Dr. Katayama and look forward to the innovation and practical perspectives that he will bring to our research activities.
June 1, 2025
We are pleased to welcome Dr. Naskar Pappu to the Zettsu Laboratory as a Postdoctoral Researcher.
Dr. Pappu has conducted research on metal–organic framework (MOF)-based sodium-ion batteries, with particular emphasis on cathode materials for aqueous sodium-ion battery systems. His work has focused on the design and synthesis of advanced MOF materials to achieve high electrochemical performance and improved stability in aqueous electrolytes.
As a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Prof. Zettsu PI Unit of the Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG), Dr. Pappu will contribute to research on high-entropy multi-element MOFs and the upcycling of spent battery materials into electrocatalysts for water electrolysis. His expertise in MOF chemistry and electrochemical energy storage will support the laboratory's efforts to develop sustainable materials for next-generation batteries and hydrogen production technologies.
We warmly welcome Dr. Pappu and look forward to his contributions to our interdisciplinary research activities.
March 22, 2025
We are delighted to welcome Prof. Naoaki Yabuuchi to the Zettsu Laboratory as a Specially Appointed Professor through Shinshu University's Cross-Appointment Program.
Prof. Yabuuchi is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Life Science, Faculty of Engineering, Yokohama National University and is internationally recognized for his pioneering research on cathode materials for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. His contributions to the discovery, design, and fundamental understanding of advanced electrode materials have had a significant impact on the field of rechargeable batteries.
As a Specially Appointed Professor in the Prof. Zettsu PI Unit of the Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG), Prof. Yabuuchi will play a key role in the management of the research unit and the development of the laboratory's research activities.
In particular, we look forward to his leadership and expertise in research on aqueous rechargeable batteries and proton batteries, helping to advance next-generation electrochemical energy storage technologies through close collaboration within the laboratory.
We warmly welcome Prof. Yabuuchi and look forward to the exciting scientific opportunities and collaborations that his appointment will bring.
January 6, 2025
We are pleased to welcome Prof. Hiroshi Shimizu to the Zettsu Laboratory as a Specially Appointed Professor.
Prof. Shimizu is an internationally recognized expert in liquid crystal materials. He was the first in the world to demonstrate the photoconductivity of discotic liquid crystals, pioneering a new research field at the interface of liquid crystal science and organic electronics. Since then, his research has focused on liquid crystalline organic semiconductors and their device applications, making significant contributions to the understanding of electronic charge transport in soft functional materials.
His outstanding achievements in elucidating molecular dynamics in liquid crystals and discovering novel functions arising from molecular mobility have been widely recognized. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Achievement Award of the Japanese Liquid Crystal Society.
As a Specially Appointed Professor in the Prof. Zettsu PI Unit of the Institute for Aqua Regeneration (ARG), Prof. Shimizu will play a key role in both the management of the research unit and the development of the laboratory's research activities.
In particular, we look forward to his leadership in the emerging field of lyotropic liquid crystalline electrolytes, especially the study of molecular gate effects for controlling ion transport. His expertise in soft functional materials is expected to open new directions for next-generation electrochemical devices and energy storage technologies.
We warmly welcome Prof. Shimizu and look forward to the innovative research opportunities that his appointment will bring to the laboratory.
December 1, 2024
We are pleased to welcome Associate Professor Tien Quang Nguyen to the Zettsu Laboratory.
Associate Professor Nguyen specializes in computational materials science, surface science, applied physics, and multiscale simulation. His research combines state-of-the-art computational techniques with data-driven materials discovery to accelerate the design of advanced functional materials.
Prior to joining the laboratory, he made significant contributions to our research through neural network potential (NNP) calculations, supporting the analysis of high-entropy materials and mixed-anion materials developed in the Zettsu Laboratory. He has also played a central role in large-scale compositional screening of battery materials, enabling the efficient exploration of vast materials design spaces that would be difficult to investigate experimentally.
As an Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen will take a leading role in both the management of the laboratory and the development of its computational research activities. His expertise will further strengthen the integration of first-principles calculations, machine learning, and experimental materials science, advancing our data-driven approach to next-generation battery materials.
Together with Associate Professor Nguyen, we look forward to expanding the laboratory's capabilities in AI-assisted materials discovery and making full use of advanced computational platforms such as Matlantis to accelerate battery materials research.
June 1, 2022
Prof. Masayuki Nagamine joined our laboratory as a specially-appointed professor in the Fuculty of Engineering, Shinshu Univeristy.
He will work on battery material development research in Zettsu Laboratory, focusing on lithium-ion conductive oxide-based solid electrolytes and hetero-phase interface bonding. We will work together to find the ideal storage battery of the future.
June 1, 2022
Takumi Yana joined our lab as a researcher.
He will work on battery material development research in Zettsu Laboratory, focusing on nanocarbon batteries.
April 1, 2022
Dr. Shiho Mukaida (Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.) has joined our laboratory as a visiting associate professor in the Fuculty of Engineering, Shinshu Univeristy.
She will work on battery material development research in Zettsu Laboratory from the viewpoint of material and process informatics.
She will also give 15 lectures on an introduction of MI and AI for the graduate course students.
May 30, 2022
Photographs were taken with the members of the laboratory for the 2022 academic year. Two months have already passed since the start of the new academic year. The atmosphere in the laboratory has become more academic. The members are getting used to an environment where they speak English on a daily basis, and their English conversation skills are visibly improving.
Research staff: 9, Secretaries: 2
M2: 7, M1: 4, B4: 4
One more research student (foreign student) is scheduled to join.
We are becoming more lively.
May 9, 2022
The 3rd CREST Zettsu Team Meeting was held at the International Science Innovation Center, Nagano Engineering Campus, Shinshu University. The Zettsu Group, Nagao Group at JAIST, and Koyama Group at Shinshu University reported on their progress and discussed strategies for intra-team collaboration. The research that each team has been promoting independently is now developing in a non-linear manner through intra-team collaboration. All presentations are given in English. From Zettsu group, Prof. Zettsu, Project Assistant Prof. Eugenio, Mr Omar, Mr Chen, and Mr. Muraki made presentations. From Nagao group, Prof. Nagao, Mr Rahul, and Mr Zhaohan presented their research. From Koyama group, Prof. Koyama, Mr Attila, Mr Quang, and Assistant Prof. Hisama presented their research. Thank you all for your time.
First of all, this one year
April 7, 2022
Five people, Mr. Imai, Ms. Kashiki, Mr. Narumi, Mr. Fuji, and Ms. Wakimoto, have been assigned as graduate students.
Mr. Otal, Mr. Omar, Ms. Mayeesha, Mr. Chen, and Ms. Ishii are in the same room. It feels good to be surrounded by an academic atmosphere. We got off to a great start.
The lab is led by students, such as enthusiastic guidance to juniors by M1 and planning of seminars by M2.
We, the faculty, have to keep up!
March 23, 2022
Three second-year master's students (Adachi, Uchimura, Kondo) and six fourth-year undergraduate students (Amano, Kang, Kitada, Kubo, Nakata, Nishimura) have obtained a master's degree (engineering) or a bachelor's degree (engineering). bottom. Congratulations on your completion and graduation! !! !! !! !! !! You all did your best.
They have produced a lot of research results despite the restrictions caused by COVID-19. Based on their achievements, we have obtained large-scale joint research funds with JST-CREST, NEDO, and private companies. Using these results as a source of funds, we will thoroughly identify basic research on battery material technology academically.
Mr. Adachi, Mr. Uchimura, Mr. Kondo, and Mr. Kitada will be caught in the rough seas of society from now on, but there is nothing to fear. If you demonstrate the basic academic ability and the ability to apply it that you have acquired at Shinshu University, you have nothing to be afraid of!
I managed to avoid crying this year (laughs)
March 23, 2022
Congratulations to Mr. Adachi, Mr. Uchimura, and Mr. Kondo for receiving their master's degrees in engineering!
There is no reason you can't play an active part in the world.
Would you like to get a PhD as well?
March 23, 2022
B4 Mr. Kubo, congratulations on your bachelor's degree (engineering)!
High-output, high-durability TiNbO-based negative electrode material development has been successful. I wanted you to have another two years.
B4 Mr. Nakata gave a presentation at the conference
March 17, 2022
"Effect of carbon nanotube binder on charge / discharge cycle characteristics of porous silicon electrode. @ Electrochemical Society 89th
#Si negative electrode #CNT binder
March 7, 2022
The final results of the "Shinshu Regional Innovation Ecosystem through Industrial Implementation of Innovative Inorganic Crystalline Materials Technology" were reported at the final meeting.
Professor Zettsu took the podium as the core researcher of Research Project 3 and reported on the results of the five-year research. The final evaluation of the project was "S". Congratulations to everyone involved..
March 2, 2022
We held a research result report meeting for the Nagano Prefecture Coordination Activity Support Project.
Title: "Scale-up of positive electrode active material for nanocarbon batteries for aircraft electrification and battery evaluation"
Collaboration with companies in the prefecture for mass production
2022/2/22
Collaboration with companies for mass production of high-power batteries
#CNT binder #Lithium ion battery #
Collaboration with companies in the prefecture for mass production
2021/12/31
Collaboration with companies for mass production of high-power batteries
#CNT binder #Lithium ion battery
Collaborative research results with Prof. Denis Yu published in Electrochimica Acta
2021/12/22
Developed a new technology to improve the initial coulombic efficiency of the SiO negative electrode
#SiO negative electrode
M1 Yuu Muraki presents at the conference
2021/12/15
"Effect of cation ordering in lithium-based layered transition metal oxides on their ionization potentials"
@ 31st Japan MRS Annual Convention
#Theoretical Calculator (DFT) #Informatics
M1 Natsumi Kawabe presents at an academic conference
2021/12/2
"SW-CNT mixing effect on the robustness of the 3D electron conduction network formed in the SiOx electrode"
@ 15th Japan Flux Growth Research Presentation
#SiO negative electrode #CNT binder
Mass production of lithium cobalt oxide
2021/11/13
World's first. Manufacture of battery materials manufactured by the flux method. Manufactured in Shinshu Volta and sold by FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation.
#Positive active material #Lithium-ion battery
2021/11/13
World's first. Manufacture of battery materials produced by flux method. Manufactured at Volta Shinshu and sold by FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation.
#Positive active material #Lithium-ion battery
