Catalytic Utilization of Carbon Resources Research Team

Catalyst development based on understanding the reaction mechanisms, targeting valorization of various carbon resources

Team Director

Kyoko Nozaki Ph.D.

1991: Ph.D., Kyoto University
1991: Instructor, Kyoto University
1999: Associate Professor, Kyoto University
2000: Researcher, PRESTO, JST
2002: Associate Professor, The University of Tokyo
2003: Professor, The University of Tokyo (-current)
2025: Executive Vice President, RIKEN (-current)
2025: Team Director, Catalytic Utilization of Carbon Resources Research Team, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science (-current)

Main Research Fields :	Chemistry
Related Research Fields :	Engineering / Complex Systems / Interdisciplinary Science & Engineering / Synthetic Organic Chemistry / Green Sustainable Chemistry / Polymer Chemistry
Keywords :	Carbon Resources / Valorization / Homogeneous catalysis / Heterogeneous catalysis / Reaction mechanism analysis
project :	Material Circulation and Catalysts

Outline

We conduct both fundamental and applied research aimed at achieving nonlinear breakthroughs in catalysis and polymer science, with the goal of enabling the effective use of underutilized carbon resources such as carbon dioxide, non-edible biomass, and plastic waste. Through this work, we seek to contribute to solving global environmental challenges.
In particular, our efforts focus on developing methods for synthesizing polymers from carbon dioxide and olefins, as well as deoxygenation reactions that valorize biomass and plastic waste, employing both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. Moreover, by elucidating the underlying mechanisms, we aim to establish a unified theory of catalyst design that applies across both liquid- and solid-phase systems.

Subjects

Catalyst development for effective hydrogenolysis of carbon–oxygen bonds
Material synthesis for carbon dioxide valorization
Mechanistic understanding of molecular and solid catalysts

Development of catalysts and reactions for effective use of carbon resources: Catalyst development is targeted toward utilization of various carbon resources beyond fossil resources