Surface-modification technology

  Surface modification of materials is an effective way of improving various advanced functions of products. Through our research on producing high-hardness, low-friction, and low-damage materials by plasma surface modification, we are contributing to materials design in the fields of power generation, cars, and household appliances and to shop-floor production that is easy on the environment.
Energy saving regarding cars and household appliances as well as reliability of electrical-contact components in motors and electrical equipment are our ongoing research themes.

  Surface-modification technology is one material process that meets the demand for a low-energy and low-emission society. Starting with materials with low friction, abrasion resistance (tribology), corrosion resistance, and resistance to discharge damage (such as steel, light alloys, and carbon materials), we are developing high-strength, high-reliability materials by coating and surface modification. In particular, we are taking the challenge of developing new processes (like one that applies microwaves) that are centered on the plasma processes, such as ion nitriding and sputtering (UBMS), that we have been developing up till now.