Kameya Research Group

Research Overview
 
Our research is focused on energy & mass transfer/conversion engineering. We are interested in functional micro/nanostructured materials for controlling interfacial phenomena. The current research topics include solar energy harvesting, micro-scale thermal management, and radiative cooling. Our goal is to develop novel technologies that can be useful in achieving solutions to environmental problems.  
 
    

 
    

 
Nanoparticles for energy conversion systems
Nanoparticles play a critical role in a wide range of energy technologies, where precise control of their dispersion and interfacial behavior is essential for achieving targeted functionality. We investigated the dispersion of nanoparticles in a liquid and demonstrated their capability to enhance solar radiation absorption. We also conducted numerical investigations of film formation during the drying of nanoparticle dispersions, a key process in fabricating catalyst layers for PEM fuel cells. By integrating numerical modeling with experimental analysis, we enable accurate prediction and optimization of nanoparticle transport and assembly behaviors.

 
Related publications
  • Kameya, et al., Modeling nanoparticle agglomeration in the centrifugal method to evaluate heat-resistant functionally graded materials, Journal of Nanoparticle Research (2023) [link]
  • Kameya, et al., Molecular diffusion and mobility characterization in ionomer/catalyst dispersions using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy-imaging combined technique, Colloid and Polymer Science (2018) [link]
  • Kameya, Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation of nanoparticle film formation via nanocolloid drying, Journal of Nanoparticle Research (2017) [link]
  • Kameya, Hanamura, Enhancement of solar radiation absorption using nanoparticle suspension, Solar Energy (2011) [link]

 
Particulate pollutant reduction for cleaner environments
The particulate emissions from hydrocarbon combustion require efficient removal through catalytic oxidation. We characterized diesel- and gasoline-derived particulates using electron microscopy and USAX, clarifying their morphology and packing structures. Using ESEM, we directly observed soot–catalyst interactions during oxidation, identifying mechanisms essential for enhanced reactivity. We also developed a microstructured photocatalyst surface and demonstrated its effectiveness in promoting soot oxidation.

Related publications

  • Kameya, et al., Photocatalytic soot oxidation on TiO2 microstructured substrate, Chemical Engineering Journal (2017) [link]
  • Kameya, Lee, Soot cake oxidation on a diesel particulate filter: environmental scanning electron microscopy observation and thermogravimetric analysis, Energy Technology (2013) [link]
  • Kameya, Lee, Ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering characterization of diesel/gasoline soot: sizes and particle-packing conditions, Journal of Nanoparticle Research (2013) [link]
 
Carbon nanoparticle and its surface nanostructure for energy conversion processes
Thermochemical hydrogen production via methane cracking is catalyzed using carbon nanoparticles. We investigated the catalytic performance of carbon black and proposed a quantitative description, which can be used in the reactor design. Also, the evolution of surface nanostructures during the methane cracking was clarified, and their potential as stable catalyst supports was demonstrated.

Related publications
  • Kameya, et al., Stability of platinum nanoparticles supported on surface-treated carbon black, Applied Catalysis B: Environmental (2016) [link]
  • Kameya, et al., Oxidation-resistant graphitic surface nanostructure of carbon black developed by ethanol thermal decomposition, Diamond and Related Materials (2016) [link]
  • Kameya, Hanamura, Carbon black texture evolution during catalytic methane decomposition, Carbon (2012) [link]
  • Kameya, Hanamura, Variation in catalytic activity of carbon black during methane decomposition: active sites estimations from surface structural characteristics, Catalysis Letters (2012) [link]
  • Kameya, Hanamura, Kinetic and Raman spectroscopic study on catalytic characteristics of carbon blacks in methane decomposition, Chemical Engineering Journal (2011) [link]