Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
Technology development was conducted for production of useful substances using the bioconsortia system. In FY 1998, the development of element technology was studied. As to the utilization technology of gut symbiotic microorganisms such as termite and longhorn beetle, clone types of gut microorganism complex system were analyzed to find out the diversification. In the decay of wood, co-culture of two species of mold fungus was increased in efficiency than single culture. More than 90% was classified/identified of the mold fungi accumulated (in wood piece)/separated for the utilization of plant symbiotic microorganisms. For the production of petroleum substituting useful resource, conditions were established of callus induction from immature embryos of tropical oil crops, especially oil palm, and of regeneration of a lot of small plants from the callus. To establish the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation system of oil palm, the binary vector harboring the reporter gene and selectable marker gene was constructed. Using the vector, oil palm tissues are inoculated and infected with agrobacteria. To heighten the function of palm oil, 10 particular clones were selected from the complementary DNA library obtained from oil palm fruit tissues. The genetic study of germs was also made. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
For use of advanced functions of bioconsortia (complex microorganisms composed of more than 2 microorganisms with certain specific function), this project analyzes specific functions of specific organisms and the interaction between the specific functions, and develops isolation and incubation technologies of component organisms. In fiscal 1998, to promote this project, the meetings were held frequently in National Institute of Bioscience and human Technology. Study was made on production of useful substances and useful degradation functions in association with bioconsortia. The result showed that microorganisms coexisting with nematode produced physiologically active substances exhibiting antimicrobial activities to tubercle bacillus, MRSA and others, microorganisms coexisting in eggs of some insects produced substances having antiviral activities and activities against pathogenic bacteria in a plant, and microorganisms growing in some plants or mycorrhiza organisms produced insecticidal substances or growing-promoting substance. The basic understanding was obtained on cooperative actions of bioconsortia to bioremediation and degradation of organic substances. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
The objectives are set to analyze functions and interactions of organisms having specific functions, to develop the techniques for isolating and cultivating the constituent organisms, and thereby to develop the techniques for their industrial utilization, in order to develop the techniques for handling organisms in bioconsortia as the techniques to utilize their functions, e.g., production and decomposition of materials, and also to develop the techniques for culturing/controlling microorganisms in bioconsortia and for strengthening their functions. The FY 1998 themes are development of the functional material production technology, and comprehensive study for the project. More concretely, the former includes histochemical analytical technology (development of techniques for detecting microorganisms in soil, and of techniques for in-situ detection/isolation of specific microorganisms in bioconsortia and for analysis their functions), isolation and culture technology (development of detection, separation and cultivation technology of microorganisms that are not easily cultured), functional substance production technology (technical utilization of microbial consortia for production of environment-friendly oil/water separation polymers), and functional material production technology (development of methods for artificial gene exchange in microbial consortia). (NEDO)
Exploration for petroleum and natural gas in Sonai Plain
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Konishi, K
1965-09-01
Exploration in the Sonai Plain by Sekyu Shigen Kaihatsu Kabushiki Kaisha (Oil Resources Development Corporation) since 1955 is described. The development tasks are made difficult due to the presence of permeability traps. However, 41 out of 65 wells drilled up to late March of 1965 have been successful. Quantities of crude oil and natural gas produced in 1963 were, respectively, 5 and 6 times those of 1958. The Sonai Plain is a relatively new area, and there are still many unknown factors, yet the rate of development has increased greatly. More and deeper wells are expected to be drilled with even better results.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
To fulfill the above-mentioned purpose, research and development of technologies were carried out involving genetic information measurement, genetic information analysis and utilization, analysis and utilization of information on proteins, and the measurement of biomolecular interaction. In a chapter 'Research and development of genetic information analysis using next-generation genome chip,' gene amplification is effected using RNA-DNA molecules and a method for efficiently building UPD (unilateral protruding DNA) was developed. In a chapter 'Development of international standard DNA chip and analyzing system for analysis of massive gene expression,' a relational database program for activating a system for gene preservation, purification, multiple injection, and management was completed. In a chapter '3D-1D modelling of all the proteins coded on genomes,' this fiscal year, analyses were conducted using Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis as model microbes. In a chapter 'Analysis of gene expression clustering,' a software program was developed for measuring and analyzing the budding yeast gene expression profile. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
To fulfill the above-mentioned purpose, research and development of technologies were carried out involving genetic information measurement, genetic information analysis and utilization, analysis and utilization of information on proteins, and the measurement of biomolecular interaction. In a chapter 'Research and development of genetic information analysis using next-generation genome chip,' gene amplification is effected using RNA-DNA molecules and a method for efficiently building UPD (unilateral protruding DNA) was developed. In a chapter 'Development of international standard DNA chip and analyzing system for analysis of massive gene expression,' a relational database program for activating a system for gene preservation, purification, multiple injection, and management was completed. In a chapter '3D-1D modelling of all the proteins coded on genomes,' this fiscal year, analyses were conducted using Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis as model microbes. In a chapter 'Analysis of gene expression clustering,' a software program was developed for measuring and analyzing the budding yeast gene expression profile. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
Technologies of producing useful substances using the substance decomposing/producing functions of complex biosystems and methods of their handling are developed. In the utilization of microbes in the digestive tracts of termites and longicorns, it is made clear that several kinds of termites cleave the {beta}-O-4 ether linkage. In relation to technologies for wood decomposing complex microbial system construction and complex vector system development, a screening system is constructed in which strains that exhibit complex actions are combined. Concerning the advanced utilization of tropical oil plants, conditions are determined for inducing callus out of oil palm tissues. Out of oil palm sarcocarp tissues, mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid) is isolated for the construction of a cDNA (complementary deoxyribonucleic acid) library. For the purpose of isolating a powerful promoter, a partial base sequence is determined for ubiquitin that frequently expresses itself in cells. A pathogenic bacterium ailing the oil palm is sampled for identification, and it is inferred that the bacterium is a kind of Ganoderma boninense. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
For the purpose of establishing the analysis technology and industrial utilization technology required for the establishment of the utilization technology of consortia's high functions which are already used in the fermentation technology field over the limit of the conventional bio-technology using functions of single biological species, study was made. As a part of the study, the establishment was aimed at of the high-grade utilization technology of seaweed/algae using the degradation/conversion functions of the consortium base and the useful substance production technology by interaction of the consortium base of organism and flora/fauna. Studies for the establishment of the technology were made in the following two fields: technology to use unused resources such as lignocellulose and technology to produce petroleum substituting useful resources. As to the technology to use unused resources, the establishment was proceeded with of the technology to degrade/convert the seaweed-origin acidic polysaccharide into the useful substance using the consortium system. In FY 1998, in search of the excellent microorganism consortia which can degrade/solubilize carageenan, samples were picked up from the underwater of the Republic of Palau and incubated in the flat culture medium. Thirty-eight kinds of the degraded bacterium group were acquired. Using the degraded bacterium group, {kappa}-carrageenan was degraded and analyzed of the products. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
For the purpose of establishing the analysis technology and industrial utilization technology required for the establishment of the utilization technology of consortia's high functions which are already used in the fermentation technology field over the limit of the conventional bio-technology using functions of single biological species, study was made. As a part of the study, the establishment was aimed at of the high-grade utilization technology of seaweed/algae using the degradation/conversion functions of the consortium base and the useful substance production technology by interaction of the consortium base of organism and flora/fauna. Studies for the establishment of the technology were made in the following two fields: technology to use unused resources such as lignocellulose and technology to produce petroleum substituting useful resources. As to the technology to use unused resources, the establishment was proceeded with of the technology to degrade/convert the seaweed-origin acidic polysaccharide into the useful substance using the consortium system. In FY 1998, in search of the excellent microorganism consortia which can degrade/solubilize carageenan, samples were picked up from the underwater of the Republic of Palau and incubated in the flat culture medium. Thirty-eight kinds of the degraded bacterium group were acquired. Using the degraded bacterium group, {kappa}-carrageenan was degraded and analyzed of the products. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-04-01
The paper described the FY 1998 results of the development of bioinformatics. All structure/sequence known proteins from all public databases were hierarchically classified systematically and according to similarities among sequences. Individual proteins in each classified group were added with explanatory notes of structure and physiological function. The mutually related information in metabolic system/signal transfer system was also included. The state of each residue position was classified into three states in terms of the solvent accessibility and three states in terms of the secondary structure. Parameter sets of occurrence frequency for each state of 20 kinds of amino acid were made. By these, it can be evaluated how much the arbitrary amino acid sequence is suitable for each structure in database. The data on the structure of low molecular-weight compounds are also incorporated so that the search for the related biomolecular system information becomes possible. The metabolic system/signal transfer system information was made database, the link was formed between each protein and each low molecular-weight compound, and the information on biomolecular networks was made searchable. A system to predict/support protein structure and function was developed. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Maruyama, T [Tokyo University of Fisheries, Tokyo (Japan); Miura, A [Aomori University, Aomori (Japan). Faculty of Engineering
1993-05-01
This paper describes the result of a toxicity test by means of a shaking culture on municipal sewage effluents using seaweed as a test living organism. Dead cells of porphyra yezoensis (nori) have emerged more specifically with the addition of non-disinfected secondary treated water at about 1% and with the lower the salt content. This phenomenon is thought to be an antagonism among growth accelerating substances for porphyra thallus, growth inhibiting substances, and salt content, one of the important characteristics of non-disinfected treated water. As a result of culture test on ripe seawater added with chlorine-disinfected secondary treated water, it was found that the growth of porphyra yezoensis (nori) is governed completely by concentrations of free chlorine added to the treated water, but very little by the treated water addition factor. Substances with very strong growth inhibition power, including NH4Cl, are generated in the chlorine-disinfected secondary treated water. It was disclosed that growth ratios of giant kelps at different factors of addition of non-disinfected secondary treated water change with the sampling time; water quality of the treated sewage water changes from one hour to another; and there are two time bands that show the growth ratio of about the same extent and a time band that shows a transition growth ratio. 60 refs., 8 figs., 2 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
1991-10-25
This paper is a research report in which the cultivated production of forest resources, the development to useful substances and the systematization to take the root in a region were studied. The distribution maps of biological resources on respective woodland systems: that is, the nationwide distribution maps of the amount of resources in Japan as to the broadleaf trees in private forests and national forests, the available amount and kinds of tree were prepared. As for the establishment of cultivation technique of the super-short deforestation forest, that is, pursue of wooden growth to the maximum limit, the superior clone 26 system was selected from the willow group through the research of wooden cultivation and the clone which showed the maximum yield reached 24t/ha every year. As for the material preparation technique due to microbial enzymes, that is, the creation and breeding of fungi which have the high lignin decomposition power, a stock of fungi which has the high lignin decomposition power and the decomposition selectivity was created by the cell fusion and the UV (ultraviolet ray) radiation treatment. As for the use of effective components in wooden resources, many useful characteristics could be detected by applying the boiling, bursting and ozone treatment. As for the mushroom cultivation through the application of unused tree kinds, a new kind of mushroom for food service was selected to clarify the possibility of fruit body formation. The development of a new material from conifers is promising. 1 tab.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
Genetic resources and databases involving microbes and the like were conserved and amplified for the reinforcement of biotechnology industries. In the maintenance of marine microalga culture collection, 16S rDNA sequences were determined for 120 strains of Cyanophyceae isolated by Marine Biotechnology Institute Co., Ltd., and databases were prepared containing the results of molecule classification, history of each strain, and pictures obtained using optical microscopes. In the maintenance of marine bacterium culture collection, methods for identifying by molecule classification bacteria separated from the sea were simplified and unified, and genera were identified for 776 strains. In the development of systems for classifying and conserving subtropical microbial resources, base sequences were analyzed for 14 strains of six kinds of microbes such as Aspergillus awamori conserved at Institute of Applied Microbiology of University of Tokyo. Other efforts included the enrichment of marine microalga collections, construction of an embryo bank system, advanced classification of microbes, and development of a DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) analyzing system. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
Experimental researches were conducted and the FY 1997 results were reported with the aim of establishing analytical technology for the complex biological system by which the complex biological system can be analyzed in such a state as it is using the molecular biological method. In the study of the molecular genetic analytical technology, PCR primers used for amplification of topoisomerase II genes of the whole eukaryote was designed. As to the histochemical analytical technology, a study was made on the new constitution microorganism detection method by the hybridization method and the antibody specific dyeing method, and the following were conducted: manifestation in quantity of colibacillus and the recovery, refining, and construction of peptide library by fuzzy display method. Concerning the functional analytical technology, technological researches were made such as the environmental adaptation mechanism of high thermophile and the information transfer mechanism among bacteria through cell membranes for elucidation of the special environment detection/response mechanism and the special environment adaptation/resistance mechanism. As to the separation/culture technology, various anaerobic microorganisms were separated from marine sponge for the development of a method of culturing in 3D matrices. (NEDO)
Profiling of Escherichia coli Chromosome database.
Yamazaki, Yukiko; Niki, Hironori; Kato, Jun-ichi
2008-01-01
The Profiling of Escherichia coli Chromosome (PEC) database (http://www.shigen.nig.ac.jp/ecoli/pec/) is designed to allow E. coli researchers to efficiently access information from functional genomics studies. The database contains two principal types of data: gene essentiality and a large collection of E. coli genetic research resources. The essentiality data are based on data compilation from published single-gene essentiality studies and on cell growth studies of large-deletion mutants. Using the circular and linear viewers for both whole genomes and the minimal genome, users can not only gain an overview of the genome structure but also retrieve information on contigs, gene products, mutants, deletions, and so forth. In particular, genome-wide exhaustive mutants are an essential resource for studying E. coli gene functions. Although the genomic database was constructed independently from the genetic resources database, users may seamlessly access both types of data. In addition to these data, the PEC database also provides a summary of homologous genes of other bacterial genomes and of protein structure information, with a comprehensive interface. The PEC is thus a convenient and useful platform for contemporary E. coli researchers.
Miki, Takeyoshi; Yamamoto, Yoshihiro; Matsuda, Hideo
2008-01-01
We developed a novel, simple, high-throughput method for isolation of genome-wide transposon insertion mutants of Escherichia coli K-12. The basic idea of the method is to randomly disrupt the genes on the DNA fragments cloned on the Kohara library by inserting a mini-transposon first, and then transfer the disrupted genes from the lambda vector to the E. coli chromosome by homologous recombination. Using this method, we constructed a set of 8402 Km(r) cis-diploid mutants harboring a mini-Tn10 insertion mutation and the corresponding wild-type gene on a chromosome, as well as a set of 6954 haploid mutants derived from the cis-diploid mutants. The major advantage of the strategy used is that the indispensable genes or sites for growth can be identified. Preliminary results suggest that 415 open reading frames are indispensable for growth in E. coli cells. A total of 6404 haploid mutants were deposited to Genetic Strains Research Center, National Institute of Genetics, Japan (Chapter 26) and are available for public distribution upon request (http://shigen.lab.nig.ac.jp/ecoli/strain/nbrp/resource.jsp).
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Fan Chunyang; Simmons, Steven O.; Law, Sheran H.W.; Jensen, Karl; Cowden, John; Hinton, David; Padilla, Stephanie; Ramabhadran, Ram
2011-01-01
Fish models such as zebrafish and medaka are increasingly used as alternatives to rodents in developmental and toxicological studies. These developmental and toxicological studies can be facilitated by the use of transgenic reporters that permit the real-time, noninvasive observation of the fish. Here we report the construction and characterization of transgenic medaka lines expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of the zebrafish neurogenin 1 (ngn1) gene promoter. Neurogenin (ngn1) is a helix-loop-helix transcription factor expressed in proliferating neuronal progenitor cells early in neuronal differentiation and plays a crucial role in directing neurogenesis. GFP expression was detected from 24 h post-fertilization until hatching, in a spatial pattern consistent with the previously reported zebrafish ngn1 expression. Temporal expression of the transgene parallels the expression profile of the endogenous medaka ngn1 transcript. Further, we demonstrate that embryos from the transgenic line permit the non-destructive, real-time screening of ngn1 promoter-directed GFP expression in a 96-well format, enabling higher throughput studies of developmental neurotoxicants. This strain has been deposited with and maintained by the National BioResource Project and is available on request ( (http://www.shigen.nig.ac.jp/medaka/strainDetailAction.do?quickSearch=true and strainId=5660)).
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
For the purpose of establishing the high-grade utilization technology of unused seaweed/algae and production technology of useful substances using high-grade functions of bioconsortia, study was conducted, and the FY 1999 results were reported. In the analysis of the ocean environment adaptation mechanism, the R and D were made of a selection method of the marine microbial consortia using korormicin. In the study of the high-grade utilization technology of unused resources/substances such as marine-producing algae, several tens of the carrageenase producing microbial consortia were acquired from the surface of seaweed, and some carrageenase producing bacteria and non-producing bacteria were acquired by isolating as pure strains. In the study of the petroleum substituting useful resource production technology, developed was a monitoring system of the environmental stress using marine-product invertebrate/micro-algae symbiotic system. In the study of the high-grade utilization of large useful algae, elucidation of the related genes, fabrication of variants and analysis of genes were carried out for the bacterium BUP-7 which indicates activity of growth acceleration/shape formation of seaweed. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
For the purpose of developing the technology for producing and degrading useful substances using bioconsortia, study was made of the handling technology of bioconsortia, the basic element technology, etc., and the FY 1999 results were reported. In the study of the high-grade utilization technology of lignocellulose/the components, an sample was obtained in which the effect of the bacteria culture supernatant treatment was recognized in the biobleaching by co-treatment of the bacteria culture filtrate - MnP. As to the search for control factor of lignin degrading enzyme and the utilization technology, it was found out that bisphenol A was efficiently degraded by a combination of laccase and mediator production bacteria. Concerning the utilization technology of plant symbiotic bacteria, classification/identification have been finished of approximately 60% of the stored bacteria. In the study of the production technology of the petroleum substituting useful resource, a system was constructed in which immature embryos were used for callus induction and regeneration of plantlets, and plants were regenerated at high frequency via the formation of adventitious embryos. By this, the culture cell with high propagation ability was obtained. (NEDO)
Molecular machines in living cells. Seibutsu no bunshi kikai to sono system
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Osawa, F. (Aichi Inst. of Tech., Nagoya (Japan))
1992-12-20
At first, flagellar motors of bacteria are reviewed as a typical example of molecular machines in living cells. A rotational motor is embedded in the cell membrane at the root of the flagellum. The driving power of the rotation is the flow of hydrogen ion from the inside to the outside of the cell. In a normal state of a bacterium, potential difference of about 0.2 V is produced by the ion pump existing in the cell membrane. A molecular motor of sliding motion of muscle attracts the attention on the relation of the input and output of the molecular motor. The mechanism of the smooth motion without fluctuation in the fluctuated environment and the fluctuated input is unknown. Next, the motion of Paramecium is discussed as an example of a system composed of a number of molecular machines. Paramecium moves to a place of a suitable temperature when placed in a water tank with temperature gradient, however, it does not stop the motion at the place of the suitable temperature and increases a probability to change the direction when leaving, that is it takes a method of indirect probabilistic control. 12 refs., 8 figs.
Biological fixation of carbon dioxide. Seibutsu ni yoru nisanka tanso no kotei
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Someya, J [Fermentaion Research Institute, Tsukuba (Japan)
1991-10-20
Bulks of photosynthetic product to reduce the carbon dioxide by the light energy are forests, represented by the tropical rain forests, on the land, and marine algae and coral reefs in the ocean. For the purpose of effectively utilizing the fixation power of carbon dioxide through the photosynthesis by higher plants and algae, it is necessary to make many further researches, starting with a conditional selection of species, excellent in both absorption and fixation of carbon dioxide. The Japan Technology Transfer Association has recently issued a design to build a large scale closed type farm in the vicinity of factory, exhausting the carbon dioxide, and supply it to structure a system of producing vegetable and other food. What largely contributes to the calcification in the ocean is the coral reefs, where coral is symbiotic with brown algae., called dinoflagellatae. Those algae are judged to accelerate the formation of calcium carbonate by the photosynthesis. To estimate the absorption power of oceanic carbon dioxide, it is important to quantitatively know the calcification by the coral. 4 figs., 1 tab.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
The aim is to utilize the sophisticated functions of complex biosystems. In the research and development of technologies for effectively utilizing unexploited resources and substances such as seeweeds and algae, seaweeds are added to seawater to turn into a microbial suspension after the passage of two weeks, the suspension is next scattered on a carageenan culture medium, and then carageenan decomposing microbes are obtained. In the research and development of technologies for utilizing microbe/fauna-flora complex systems, technologies for exploring and analyzing microbes are studied. For this purpose, 48 kinds of sponges and 300 kinds of bacteria symbiotic with the sponges are sampled in Malaysia. Out of them, 15 exhibit enzyme inhibition and Artemia salina lethality activities. In the development of technologies for analyzing the functions of microbes engaged in the production of useful resources and substances for animals and plants, 150 kinds of micro-algae are subjected to screening using protease and chitinase inhibiting activities as the indexes, and it is found that an extract of Isochrysis galbana displays an intense inhibitory activity. The alga is cultured in quantities, the active component is isolated from 20g of dried alga, and its constitution is determined. (NEDO)
Ishihama, Akira; Shimada, Tomohiro; Yamazaki, Yukiko
2016-03-18
Bacterial genomes are transcribed by DNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RNAP), which achieves gene selectivity through interaction with sigma factors that recognize promoters, and transcription factors (TFs) that control the activity and specificity of RNAP holoenzyme. To understand the molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation, the identification of regulatory targets is needed for all these factors. We then performed genomic SELEX screenings of targets under the control of each sigma factor and each TF. Here we describe the assembly of 156 SELEX patterns of a total of 116 TFs performed in the presence and absence of effector ligands. The results reveal several novel concepts: (i) each TF regulates more targets than hitherto recognized; (ii) each promoter is regulated by more TFs than hitherto recognized; and (iii) the binding sites of some TFs are located within operons and even inside open reading frames. The binding sites of a set of global regulators, including cAMP receptor protein, LeuO and Lrp, overlap with those of the silencer H-NS, suggesting that certain global regulators play an anti-silencing role. To facilitate sharing of these accumulated SELEX datasets with the research community, we compiled a database, 'Transcription Profile of Escherichia coli' (www.shigen.nig.ac.jp/ecoli/tec/). © The Author(s) 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
This report summarizes the fiscal 1997 research results on production technology of functional materials, and the research study result for utilizing substance production and decomposition by complex biosystem for industries. For detecting technique of microorganisms in soil, staining by CFDA-AM was suitable, and allowed visualization of sulfate- reducing bacteria during culture. For research on functional analysis technology, study was made on atomic force microscope technology to detect microorganisms in environment and observe their fine structures. For research on detection, separation and cultivation technology of difficult-to-culture microorganisms, a molecular genetic analysis method of microbial communities and a determination method of their viability were selected. For functional substance production technology, study was made on technical utilization of bioflocculant produced by microbial consortia as environment-friendly oil removal reagent, and on gene transfer control in microbial consortia. For the research study for the project, survey was made on useful substances produced by complex biosystem. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
For the purpose of establishing the analysis technology and industrial utilization technology required for the establishment of the utilization technology of consortia's high functions which are already used in the fermentation technology field over the limit of the conventional bio-technology using functions of single biological species, study was made to look for the consortium based analysis technology by which the consortium base can be analyzed as it is using the molecular biological method. Studies were made in the following four fields: 1) new identification technology of eucaryote using II DNA topoisomerase genes (PCR amplification method of II DNA topoisomerase genes); 2) method to detect new recognition peptide activated microorganism (adjustment of cortical antigen); 3) technology to elucidate detection/response mechanism of the specific environment and adaptation/resistance mechanism of the specific environment; 4) incubation method inside 3D matrices. In 3), studies were made of the analysis of inhibition mechanism of korormicin and separation of solvent-resistant oil degradable bacteria. In 4), for the settlement and dynamic analysis of microorganism consortium by studying incubation conditions, conducted was the molecular system analysis of bacteria and eumycetes inhabiting in sponge. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
For the purpose of developing the industrial utilization technology, analysis was made of functions and interactions of the specified functional biological groups, and at the same time the developmental study was made of the technology to isolate/culture the constitutive biological groups. The FY 1998 results were summed up. As to the technology to detect microorganisms in soil, the SFDA method was improved and the new dyeing method was developed. And, there almost was hope for the development. Concerning the functional analysis technology, the functional substances peculiarly manifested only in the complex system in the ocean environment are searched. Several kinds of compounds were found out, and at the same time the test to confirm the biological activity is under way. Relating to the isolation/culture technology, study was made on rotten fruit, and the existence in the sample of the microorganisms which are difficult in isolation/culture was newly confirmed. In regard to the culture of the microorganisms which are difficult in isolation/culture, availability of the replica method was found out. As to the technology to produce functional substances, studies were made on the following: utilization technology of the environmental harmony type oil/water separation polymer producing microbial consortia, method to artificially make gene exchanges in the microbial consortia, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
For the purpose of establishing the technology to use high grade functions of the bioconsortia system, the R and D were conducted, and the FY 1998 results were summed up. As to the study of functional material producing technology, screening of the 2400 strains owned by Marine Biotechnology Institute was conducted using reporter strain, and about 400 strains of homoserine lactone producing bacteria which are interbiological information convey substances were obtained. Concerning the effective decomposing/purifying technology of petroleum products, study of petroleum decomposition analysis technology was finished in the development of culture/control technology of petroleum decomposition microbial consortia constitutive bacteria. Relating to the analysis of the petroleum decomposition microbial consortia, changes in the bacteria population at the site of the heavy oil pollution accident on the Sea of Japan were investigated for the past one year by the PCR/DGGE method. It was found out that levels of the oil pollution in ocean could be assessed by measuring the concentration of Alcanivorax. As to the technology for highly utilizing unused petroleum fractions, conducted were the chemical analysis of photolytic crude oil, selection of the decomposition microbial consortia, etc. (NEDO)
Review on development of biofouling control `97; Seibutsu fuchaku boshi taisaku no shinpo `97
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Kawabe, A. [Kurita Water Industries Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)
1998-01-15
Some recent information is presented about the adhesion of organisms to marine structures. A biocoating is a community of microorganisms adhering to the surface of an object, composed of a matrix of exocrines and what it carries, which are suspended matters originating in the seawater and organic particles originating in the organisms. As a biotechnological measure for preventing the adhesion of large organisms, there is the use of synthetic repellents. New chemicals, however, have to clear the law requesting a review and approval of the authorities concerned before they can be put to use. Furthermore, their cost if high will give rise to another difficult problem. There are two chemical methods against them, one the injection of chemicals aiming at all larvae on the adherence stage and the other the execution of electrolysis for the formation of repellent chemicals in the seawater. In case a thick chemical concentration is mandatory for a good result, chemicals may be allowed to melt out of the coating or surface electrolysis may be caused by use of a conductive coating. Available for providing the object with an organism-rejecting surface are functional materials such as silicone, chlorine generating electrodes, and repellent-containing carriers. Also mentioned in this report are electrochemical methods, use of copper alloys or zinc, and application of silicone-based coatings. 129 refs., 16 figs, 8 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
It is intended to achieve the following objectives in terms of the technologies to utilize such functions as material production and material decomposition by using composite organism systems: develop a technology to handle the composite organism systems; establish a composite microorganism cultivation control technology, and a composite microorganism system function strengthening technology; develop a technology to separate and cultivate organism groups constituting them, and develop industrial utilization technologies. The fiscal 1999 has discussed developing the elementary technologies for the technology to utilize functions of the composite organism systems on the following research items: 1. a functional material production technology; and 2. comprehensive investigations and researches. In Item 1, development was made on a technology to detect, separate and cultivate microorganisms in soil as the histochemical analytical technology. Development was made on an in situ detection, separation and function analyzing technology for particular composite microorganisms as the function analyzing technology. In the separation and cultivation technology, development was made on a technology to detect, separate and cultivate difficult-to-cultivate microorganisms. In the functional material production technology, development was made on a technology to utilize microbial consortia producing environmentally harmonizing oil-water separating polymers, and a method to execute artificially the gene exchange in the microbial consortia. (NEDO)
OryzaGenome: Genome Diversity Database of Wild Oryza Species
Ohyanagi, Hajime
2015-11-18
The species in the genus Oryza, encompassing nine genome types and 23 species, are a rich genetic resource and may have applications in deeper genomic analyses aiming to understand the evolution of plant genomes. With the advancement of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, a flood of Oryza species reference genomes and genomic variation information has become available in recent years. This genomic information, combined with the comprehensive phenotypic information that we are accumulating in our Oryzabase, can serve as an excellent genotype-phenotype association resource for analyzing rice functional and structural evolution, and the associated diversity of the Oryza genus. Here we integrate our previous and future phenotypic/habitat information and newly determined genotype information into a united repository, named OryzaGenome, providing the variant information with hyperlinks to Oryzabase. The current version of OryzaGenome includes genotype information of 446 O. rufipogon accessions derived by imputation and of 17 accessions derived by imputation-free deep sequencing. Two variant viewers are implemented: SNP Viewer as a conventional genome browser interface and Variant Table as a textbased browser for precise inspection of each variant one by one. Portable VCF (variant call format) file or tabdelimited file download is also available. Following these SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) data, reference pseudomolecules/ scaffolds/contigs and genome-wide variation information for almost all of the closely and distantly related wild Oryza species from the NIG Wild Rice Collection will be available in future releases. All of the resources can be accessed through http://viewer.shigen.info/oryzagenome/.
Industry brief letter; Kasupikaioki sekiyu koku kaihatsu sekiyu shigen kaihatsu nado sannyu
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-02-01
4 companies of Petroleum Resources Development, Indonesia Petroleum, Teikoku Petroleum an Itochu Petroleum Development will sign petroleum exploration and development contract in petroleum mining property offshore of Caspian Sea with Azerbaijan National Petroleum Company, Sokar Company. In another mining property, Mitsui group reached conclusion with Sokar Company in mining right. Resource development competition between existing international petroleum majors and Japanese petroleum companies around Caspian Sea may be further intensified. (translated by NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Ishikawa, M. (Fukui Institute of Technology, Fukui (Japan))
1991-11-01
The activated sludge process and other biological treatments, though utilized for most sewerage and drainage water disposals, often necessitate the maintenance to be managed with a professional knowledge so that confrontation is oftem impossible with trouble in management. In the present report, different basic studies are to be introduced of microbial activation by an addition with saponin. Saponin'', etymologically identical with savon'' and soap'', has been being used as natural cleaner, emulsifier and foamer in South America and Europe since olden times, and is used also for the processed food and potable water in the USA. The present experiment concluded that, in case of using it as microbial activator, the activated sludge can be considerably increased in load quantity of disposal by the heightening in oxygen-supplying power, high concentration microbial maintenance, microbial activation, etc. In the future, there will remain many problems unsolved such as what is the optimized condition for the addition depending upon the condition of base material. 3 refs., 6 figs., 1 tab.
Effect of water pollution on marine organisms; Sekiyu osen no kaiyo seibutsu eno eikyo hyoka
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Ogata, M. [Okayama Univ., Okayama (Japan); Fujisawa, K. [Okayama Prefectural Fisheries Experiment Station, Okayama (Japan)
1997-10-10
Toxicity of petroleum component to aquatic organisms appears as a result of its deposition onto living organisms followed by its migration into bodies of the organisms, and emergence of toxicity from the migrated component. Effect evaluation processes standing on this viewpoint may include the exposure monitoring or migration monitoring, in which the petroleum component migrated into marine organisms is analyzed and the state of the component concentrated in these organisms is measured, or effect monitoring, in which actions of the petroleum component in the organisms are investigated. The effects of petroleum on aquatic organisms would include the following occurrence: direct fatal toxicity acting on cells and membranes, quasi-fatal toxicity causing death indirectly through feeding actions and abnormal actions, direct coating of oil on surface of organisms, which prevents movability and feeding actions of the organisms and reduces hydrophilicity of plumes and hairs, pollution of living organisms due to migration of carcinogenic aromatic compounds into bodies of the living organisms, and change in species compositions and geographic distribution of living organisms due to change in physico-chemical environment. This paper explains cases of detection and identification of organic sulfur compounds, aromatic compounds, polycyclic aromatic compounds, paraffins, olefins and heavy metals in parametric compounds of petroleum. 20 refs., 4 figs., 3 tabs.
Surface structures and optical functions of living things. Seibutsu no hyomen kozo to kogaku kino
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Kumazawa, K.; Takimoto, J.; Tanaka, S.; Tabata, H. (Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan))
1993-12-24
This paper describes the following matters as one example of structural coloring of non-motional nature on the coloring mechanism in wings of Morpho sulkouskyi butterfly: The structure of scales on butterfly wings may be modelled into such a structure of a right angle frame of reference having a cyclic arrangement (with an interval of 0.7 [mu]m) of a zigzagged protrusion in the 'x' direction called a ridge (with a height of 1.8 [mu]m and a width of 0.54 [mu]m, the shape not changing in the 'y' direction), and having a plurality of protrusions of a ridge form called lamella in the 'z' (height) direction. A simple multi-layered thin film model was assumed that has lamella layers and air layers laminated alternately in the 'z' direction. The model was used to calculate reflection spectra on vertically incident light based on thickness and refractive index of material layers determined by a structural analysis of the scales. The result was considerably close to the reflection spectra of scales measured by using a microscopic spectrophotometer when the number of layers is set to six. The paper describes briefly examples of motility structural coloring (skin cells of rainbow color in tropical fish). 7 refs., 12 figs.
The source and behavior of iodine dissolving in groundwater in the Mobara gas field, Japan
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Kamei, Gento [Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Inst., Tokai, Ibaraki (Japan). Tokai Works
2002-06-01
The groundwater of the Mobara gas-field in Boso peninsula, eastern Japan, contains considerable amount, around 100 mg/L, of iodine besides dissolved methane. Twelve groundwater samples from gas-producing wells to the aquifer within the Kazusa Group in Mobara and Naruto districts have been analyzed for iodine, pH, Eh, HCO{sub 3}{sup -}, NH{sub 4}{sup +}, SiO{sub 2}(aq), {delta}D, {delta}{sup 18}O, {delta}{sup 13}C{sub CH4} and seventeen elements. There is a good correlation between the concentrations of the dissolved elements to those in marine algae. The principal source of the iodine is believed to be algae buried in the sediments and the iodine has been discharged to the porefluid during decomposition of the tissue. The molar ratio of I{sup -}/Cl{sup -} in the groundwater increases from 1.0 x 10{sup 3} to 2.2 x 10{sup 3} with changing the depth from 2000 to 1000 meters below the surface and turns to decrease from 2.2 x 10{sup 3} to 1.8 x 10{sup 3} with going up from 1000 to 500 meters. This tendency may be caused by the variation of buried organisms due to changing the sedimentary environment. The observed variation in the ratio indicates that the iodine discharged in the pore fluid did not migrate significantly after the deposition of the formation. This paper can be regarded as an English version of Japanese article written by Kamei, which was published on the 'Shigen Chishitsu (Resource Geology)' 51(2)145-151(2000). (author)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
This project aims to establish production technology of functional substances, oil degradation and purification technology, and use technology of unused oil fraction through development of cultivation control technology of complex biosystems. For functional material production technology, as functional substances some specific marine bacteria inhibitors, antibreeding substances of microalgae, and UV absorption substances were isolated. The productivity of korormicin as specific inhibitor against marine bacteria was improved considerably by cultivation method. For research on molecular genetic analysis technology, a new identification technology and a simple automatic analysis system of microeucaryotes using genes were developed. For global environment purification technology such as efficient degradation of pollutants, study was made on cultivation control technology of phenol- degrading consortia, population dynamics of oil-degrading microbial consortia and a restoration method of oil pollution by complex biosystem at lower temperature, and the demonstration experiment of oil degradation were carried out. (NEDO)
Recent situation and future of molybdenum mineral resources; Molybdenum shigen no genjo to shorai
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Ono, K.; Nishiyama, T. [Kyoto University, Kyoto (Japan)
1997-05-05
Molybdenum is produced mainly from molybdenite, and the majority of this ore is exploited from the porphyry deposit. The reserve is estimated at 5.5-million ton. A total of 118-thousand ton was produced across the world in 1995, in the U.S., China, Chile, and Canada, the countries named in the order of quantities they exploited. Molybdenite is first refined by flotation for the production of a sulphide. It is subjected to oxidizing roasting for conversion into crude molybdenum trioxide, which is next subjected to extraction in warmed-up aqueous ammonia and then to evaporation for the crystallization of ammonium paramolybdate. The crystals are baked for conversion into molybdenum trioxide of the ordinary purity, to be further processed into ferromolybdenum, molybdenum compounds, molybdenum powder, etc. In view of the magnitude of demand, the metal is used mostly for the manufacture of special steels and special alloys. The demand for this metal, though small in size, involves important articles, such as line materials for semiconductors in the power industry, catalysts in the chemical industry, and lubricants. Japan`s stockpile includes molybdenum, but the U.S. has been stockpiling none since 1977. 9 refs., 4 figs., 1 tab.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-09-01
Researches into organisms for their information processing, conducted in fiscal 1988 as part of a 'biological device research and development' project under the research and development system for basic technologies for the next-generation industry, are compiled into an article entitled 'information processing in neurons, and calcium ions.' The level of neuronal activity depends on changes in the level of nerve-membrane ion channel activity. Some kinds of ion channels are chemically activated (or inactivated) within the membrane. The phosphorylation of a protein ion channel is a typical case where an ion channel level is regulated chemically. In the muscarinic response of a neuron, a chemically operated ion channel plays an important roll relative to neuronal functions. In this response, a second messenger system in the neuron transmits extracellular information to the chemically operated ion channel. In this system, a calcium ion is one of important second messengers. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Hatakeyama, S.; Nagayasu, K.; Suwa, T.; Hayashitani, M.; Ito, H.; Habata, K.; Kitakaze, T. (Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., Tokyo (Japan))
1993-10-20
The new biological deodorization device was developed using dried activated sludge as deodorant. Activated sludge obtained from a waste water treatment plant was dried at room temperature to protect from extinction of microorganisms in it before its charge into the device, and washed by water only as required. Offensive odor substances were oxidation-decomposed by microorganism after their adsorption into sludge surfaces, while microorganisms survived for a long time while getting such substances as nutritive sources. As basic deodorization characteristics were studied with the experimental device and artificial odor gases, more than 99% of 200 and 2,000 ppm H2S were removed at space velocities of 400/h and 33/h, respectively, together with nine typical offensive odor substances. As the result of demonstration tests with the small test device installed in a public waste water treatment plant, a high deodorizing efficiency was retained for 10 months or more, and its running cost was as low as 75% of that of current systems because of only one necessary washing every month. 3 refs., 14 figs., 12 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
Research and development is conducted to collect intermediate products from Okinawan herbs for the production of antioxidant products usable for various purposes. Substance-producing plants are screened and the substances they offer are assessed for antioxidant activity, extracted, processed, prepared for market, and checked for safety. At the Okinawa Industrial Technology Center, a DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl)/microplate method has been established, which promptly measures the antioxidant activity of the substances. Using this technology, the divisions concerned of industrial, academic, and governmental organizations cooperate with each other over the optimization of herb cultivation technology, development of a herbal ingredient analyzing technology, efficacy of herbs, development of a safety assessment system, development of a technology for the effective extraction, processing, and preparation of herbal ingredients, and the development of a technology of assessing antioxidant intermediate products for their efficacy. As the result, a technology is established of producing intermediate antioxidant products from Guava, Ryukyuyomogi, and Ukonisomatsu. They are unique Okinawan products, and sell at 40,000-50,000 yen. Since the prices are equal to or lower than the prices of other antioxidant intermediate products, probabilities are very high that they will get into markets in Japan proper. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Mori, T [Shimane Univ., Shimane (Japan). Faculty of Agriculture
1992-09-01
The relationship between environmental control and biotechnology is discussed, and purification of moats and lakes is taken up as a concrete example of introducing biological waste water treatment technology to ecotechnology. In addition, an overall waste disposal system connecting cities and agricultural districts is investigated. After the purification of water and waste problem solution, etc. are discussed, the importance of creating ecopolis and ecotown is described. The 3 concepts of microbial ecotechnology (high densification of organism, field control, interaction between organisms) are used to explain biological treatment technology. Attempts for direct purification and ecotechnology are described quoting a few examples. If waste produced in cities and ligneous materials or charcoal obtained from forests are mixed for treatment, effective waste treatment or new resources production may be possible. It seems to be possible to create ideal ecopolis and ecotown by applying the doctrine of irrigation, drainage and reclamation engineering and the technology established by now. 35 refs., 1 fig., 2 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
A survey was conducted of bio-chemical complex harmonized with the global environment for the purpose of constructing the material production process harmonized with the environment by the process fusion between biological conversion and chemical reaction. Palm oil was taken up as renewable raw material plant resource. The process utilizing bio-chemical reaction advances at normal temperature and pressure and is high in reaction specificity and selectivity. This is a recycling, circulation and environmental harmony type production technology which brings high yield, energy conservation, resource conservation, and low environmental loads. Waste water treatment and production of useful substances from sludge were thought as elementary technology. A possibility was studied of enzyme production by culturing solid waste, and the enzyme was applied to the hydrolysis process. The paper indicated trace components in the palm oil and the extraction method and proposed the production process of new derivatives for adding value to hydrolysate. A study was also made of the overall process flow which integrated these new processes and the material balance. The comprehensive evaluation of this new process was made from the aspect of the product structure, the market, construction cost, economical efficiency, and the environment. 133 refs., 65 figs., 56 tabs.
Recent situation and future of mineral resources in Myanmar. Myanmar no shigen no genjo to shorai
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Sasaki, H
1993-11-05
Though being one of the most impoverished countries with a per capita national income of 225 dollars (1989) because of instability in its political situation, Myanmar is blessed with abundant underground resources. This paper describes the current status of their production and development. Oil fields located in the central sedimentary basin produces 58 million barrels of crude oil and 35 billion 650 million ft[sup 3] of natural gas, but the production is a little insufficient to meet the national demand. Petroleum production is carried out by the operating organizations and departments under the control of the Ministry of Energy. The production has been decreasing since the peak in 1984 because of aged facilities. The government is exerting efforts on production increase and developments leveraged by foreign capital investments. Coal is produced annually at 40,000 tons in the north-west area, all consumed domestically. Such natural resources as copper, zinc, lead, gold, and precious stones are produced by the operating organizations under the control of the Ministry of Mining. Although the country is blessed with an extremely great variety of underground resources, its actual situation in the national economy expects strongly cooperations from other countries including Japan. 6 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
The energy saving environment-friendly technology for low- grade difficult-to-process ores was researched focusing attention on the hydro-metallurgical process of non-ferrous metals. This research aims at development of both effective leaching system of metals, and separation/crystallization system recognizing the property difference between metal ions in solution. The leaching system allows the inexpensive molecular level control of electron transfer, mass transfer of metal ions and stabilization of leached metal ions in a solid/liquid interface. The system thus allows selective leaching of metals from various resources such as difficult- to-leach sulfide minerals to prepare concentrated solutions. The separation system can obtain high-purity solutions including each metal ion by advanced separation/concentration technology from the solutions. The crystallization technology (including electrolysis) is developed for preparing target metal materials by molecular level control of nucleation, particle growth, thin film formation and bulky metal formation processes. Overall energy consumption is reduced to 1/3 of that of the pyro-metallurgical method, aiming at zero emission. 15 refs., 14 figs., 11 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Wada, T.; Akazawa, T. [New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, Tokyo (Japan)
1997-11-01
In order to increase the geothermal power generation volume in Japan furthermore after now, it is necessary to develop the deep-seated geothermal fluid collecting technique at 3,000 to 4,000m in depth and about 350degC. In order to collect the deep-seated geothermal resources economically and effectively, there are some principally important problems on production techniques such as P (pressure)-T(temperature)-S (flow rate)-D (fluid density) logging technique, P (pressure)-T (temperature)-C (chemical composition) monitoring technique, high temperature tracer monitoring technique, scale monitoring technique, scale protection and removal technique and so on. The PTSD logging technique is a measuring technique for collecting some data necessary to conduct production management effectively. The PTC monitoring technique is a technique for collecting data on the geothermal resources essential for the resources evaluation and presumption, and tracer monitoring technique is a technique for collecting actual measurement data of fluid flow analysis in the deep-seated geothermal resources. And the sale monitoring is a technique for collecting data on various kinds of scale components of the deep-seated geothermal water and in the steam. In this paper, these techniques are summarized. 8 figs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Fujii, K [University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka (Japan). Faculty of Education
1996-09-01
Coal seam gas is also called coal bed methane gas, indicating the gas existing in coal beds. The gas is distinguished from the oil field based gas, and also called non-conventional type gas. Its confirmed reserve is estimated to be 24 trillion m {sup 3}, with the trend of its development seen worldwide as utilization of unused resource. For the necessity of cultivating relevant technologies in Japan, this paper considers processes of production, movement, stockpiling, and accumulation of the gas. Its productibility is controlled by thickness of a coal bed, degree of coalification, gas content, permeability, groundwater flow, and deposition structure. Gas generation potential is evaluated by existing conditions of coal and degree of coalification, and methane production by biological origin and thermal origin. Economically viable methane gas is mainly of the latter origin. Evaluating gas reserve potential requires identification of the whole mechanism of adsorption, accumulation and movement of methane gas. The gas is expected of effect on environmental aspects in addition to availability as utilization of unused energy. 5 figs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Takeda, Nobuo [Kyoto University, Kyoto (Japan). Department of Environmental Engineering
1999-09-20
Solid waste management should be considered in close relation to conservation of energy and resources. The history and situation of solid waste management in Japan is outlined and the new concept of waste management is discussed for sustainable development. (author)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
Research cooperation has been conducted on the conservation of biological species inhabiting in the tropical rainforest in developing countries in tropic zone and the sustainable use of genetic resources using biotechnologies. For the research cooperation with Thailand in FY 1996, research of the food acquisition strategy of the Primates has been conducted. A total of 19 species of animals and plants, i.e., 7 species of arbors, 7 species of herbs, and 5 species of insects, were newly confirmed for pig-tailed monkey. In Indonesia, a feasibility study was conducted on the information center of Indonesian tropical bioresources. For the research of culture collection of bacteria, 113 strains of acetic acid bacteria and 85 strains of lactic acid bacteria were separated from Indonesian specimens, and they were identified. An agreement was concluded with Malaysia, and discussions were conducted for the concrete implementation plan. For the project, construction of a database was investigated for bioresources including bacteria and higher animals useful for industries. Maintenance of gene bank was also investigated. 391 refs., 61 figs., 93 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
For the purpose of developing the functional substance production technology, petroleum degrading/cleaning technology and high-grade utilization technology of the unused petroleum fraction, study was conducted of the culture control technology in substance production and substance decomposition by bioconsortia, and the FY 1999 results were reported. As to the functional material production technology, study was made of the separation/culture technology, functional substance production technology using bioconsortia (control substance searching method in the ocean microbial consortia system, isolation of control substance/structure determination/separation of production bacteria, elucidation of the inter-species communication substance function, heightening of function of the production microbial consortia), etc. Concerning the effective degrading/cleaning technology of petroleum compounds, study was made of the molecular genetic analysis technology, histochemical analysis technology, analysis technology of the solvent resistance mechanism, bioconsortia analysis system technology, global environmental purification technology such as the effective decomposition of environmental pollutants, etc. Relating to the high-grade utilization technology of the unused petroleum fraction, study was made of the chemical analysis of the photolysis crude oil, selection of the decomposition microbial consortia, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
It is necessary in the field of post-genoms to know statistical correlation between DNA orientation information and clinical data, which helped growth of DNA probe arrays (DNA chips). However, it is difficult in patent point of view to develop chips in Japan. On the other hand, a movement has begun to use beads fixed with DNA probes in place of DNA chips demarcated on the surface of solids. This is a method to investigate hybridized DNA by means of fluorescent detection, in which each bead retaining the DNA probes is colored to make identification of the retained probes possible, and hybridizing reaction is performed in aqueous solution. Hitachi has developed a DNA measuring technology using bead arrays. The bead array has probe fixing beads of about 100 {mu} m laid sequentially inside a capillary, wherein the array can be used to inspect a large number of genes. Thus, this method can be a DNA measuring technology which is inexpensive, and high in reproducibility. These features lead to a belief that the technology is suitable for gene inspection devices used in the process of medicine development and at the clinical sites. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
Bioconsortia are microbial composites composing of more than two kinds of microorganisms with special functions. To utilize their advanced functions, some techniques have been developed for analyzing their functions and interactions, and for identification, separation and incubation of the constituent microbial groups. In FY 1997, an investigation was made on technology trends, domestic researchers, and research topics related to bioconsortia. To manage and promote the progress of research at the National Institute of Bioscience and Human-Technology where the centralized management of this project is conducted, meetings are held once a month to examine the progress at the institute, in which reports are made and discussions are held on how each research item is progressing. In addition, meetings of the committee to promote research are held every other month to consider and examine measures required for promoting the research. Re-entrustment of research has been made on two subjects, i.e., `Studies on biological significance of symbiotic microorganisms` by Prof. Ishikawa of the University of Tokyo, and `Study on the relationship between the biosynthesis of useful terpenic materials of plant origin and the differentiation of plant tissues, and their effective production by plant cell cultures` by Prof. Inoue of Gifu Pharmaceutical University. 27 refs., 13 figs., 1 tab.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-09-01
In a report on a 'survey for coal transportation system optimization in southern Sumatra' which is to contribute to the improvement of coal exploitation efficiency in the Musi river area in southern Sumatra, the coal transportation system from the coal mine to the harbor is reviewed, scenarios on funding and cost effectiveness and environmental impact are comprehensively examined, and suggestions are submitted for higher efficiency and cost effectiveness. In a report on a 'current utilization status and effectiveness of a non-destructive electromagnetic vibrator shock source,' an electromagnetic vibrator shock source out of several new coal exploration technologies which are combinations of test boring and seismic prospecting is taken up, and is compared, in terms of technical feature and cost effectiveness, with the seismic reflection survey technique that uses an explosive shock source, and then a conclusion is reported that an electromagnetic vibration shock source method is superior. Using the new electromagnetic method, a seismic wave frequency is so chosen as to be suitable for a given depth. Since it is non-destructive and emits less noise, it is expected that it will serve in various fields other than coal mining. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
The purpose of this survey is to construct a comprehensive coal field assessment technology system which can promptly cope with any natural conditions/geological situations of coal field. As to the GIS (geographical information system) which can unifiedly manage/analyze various data being used in other fields, survey was conducted of present situations/technology trends of the resource related GIS, and at the same time the survey is aimed at applying it to the coal resource field. In the survey in this fiscal year, based on the survey made in FY 1998, applicability of GIS function was verified for Australia where the coal GIS is prepared. And the fundamental design was made to construct a coal GIS considered of concrete application in the stage of coal resource exploration and resource assessment. In the fundamental design, prototypes of individual functions of the system were made. Making the analysis using the actual data, expansion and complication of the system size were advanced step by step toward the completion of the system. Such prototypical development method was adopted. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Aizaki, M [National Inst. for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba (Japan); Nakazato, H [Biox Corp., Tokyo (Japan)
1995-08-10
Such nutrients as nitrogen and phosphorus discharged into lakes and rivers can cause organic contamination as a result of eutrophication in water areas if they are left as they are. However, they can be re-utilized as resources if they are utilized more effectively. This paper reports a hydroponic organism filtering method as a promising method of utilization thereof. It also explains transition in organism phase in rhizosphere and a water purification experiment. Such suspended matters as phytoplanktons in raw water are filtered and captured by roots of plants; such small animals as tendipedidae and physia live symbiotically in the rhizosphere; their excrements and nutrients are absorbed into and utilized by plants; and coexistence is made possible between diverse water-front environments including terrestrial systems and diverse living organisms. Cresson cultivation, observation on transition in the benthos composition, and a lake water purification experiment were carried out at the Kasumigaura Lake experimental facility. Various findings were acquired such that, in order to attain diverse coexistences including those with natural enemies and well-ventilated environments, a water channel of larger than a certain size is required. Results were also obtained that can be expected as an effective technique that may be used in public water areas. 3 refs., 4 figs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Kikuchi, K; Furuta, T; Sakaguchi, I [Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry, Tokyo (Japan)
1996-08-01
Effectiveness of livestock industry wastes and vegetable protein added to fish meal in fish farming is tested by feeding the Japanese flounder. In the experiment, a part or the whole of the fish meal protein is replaced by the meat meal (MM), meat and bone meal (MBM), corngluten meal (CGM), or dried silkworm pupa meal (SPM), and fries of the Japanese flounder are fed on the new diets for eight weeks. On a diet containing 60% or less of MM, no change is detected in the fish in terms of increase in weight, protein efficiency ratio, and blood components, indicating that 60% at the highest of fish meal may be replaced by MM. In the case of MBM, it can occupy approximately 20%. As for CGM, the proper substitution rate is approximately 40%. Essential amino acids that the new diets may lack are added for an approximately 10% improvement on the result. The SPM substitution works up to 40%, when, however, the blood components are degraded. The proper substitution rate is therefore placed at approximately 20%. 38 refs., 2 figs., 17 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Tanaka, T.; Tsuzuki, K.; Nishijima, N.; Takagi, T. [Hitachi, Ltd., Tokyo (Japan); Terazono, K. [Water Resources Environment Technology Center, Tokyo (Japan)
1998-04-10
This paper describes a pilot plant study on algae removal of a fluidized bed biofilm reactor system for lake water treatment. The system does not need backwashing because the fluidized bed suffers no clogging. Moreover, the system uses dissolved oxygen in influent water for aerobic biological treatment without aeration equipment. Thus, this system is a low energy and easy maintenance way to purify eutrophic lake water. The system was operated continuously at a flow rate of 1500 m{sup 3}/d{sup 1} for 9 months at Tsuchiura Port in Lake Kasumigaura. In this study, chlorophyll-a and dissolved oxygen in both influent and effluent water were monitored continuously. In summer (August to September) when water bloom occurred, the average removal efficiency of chlorophyll-a was 64% at the average influent chlorophyll-a concentration of 137.8 {mu}g/l{sup 1}. During the total experimental period (9 months), the average daily amount of removed chlorophyll-a was 40.3 g/d{sup 1} at the average influent chlorophyll-a concentration of 89.5 {mu}g/l{sup 1}. By analyzing the relationship between the removed chlorophyll-a and the consumption of dissolved oxygen, it was estimated that almost all of algae trapped in the reactor was degraded biologically. 20 refs., 12 figs., 2 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Niijima, K.; Fujita, K.; Ogawa, M. (Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, Tsukuba (Japan))
1993-08-31
With an objective to utilize sewage sludge more effectively, composted sewage sludge has been applied to seed beds to investigate its effect on soil macrofauna and higher fungi, and its relativity with change in soil organisms, growth of young trees, and soil science. Forty-eight seedling sections, each 5 m [times] 5 m, were made on a seed bed which was applied with Tenryu sludge composts (polymer-based coagulant), several other kinds of sludge composts, fallen leaf composts, and cattle excrement composts at predetermined rates from zero to 20 kg. Each section was planted with 25 three-year-old nursery trees of a kind of oak, black pine, and cypress. As a result, the following findings were obtained: wet weight of larvae of Japanese gold beetles that attack tree roots has increased during the first and second years in the Tenryu sludge applied section, but no longer increased in the third year; the relationship between the other composts and soil macrofauna was not made clear; Scleroderma Cepa PERS, a mycorrhiza bacteria, has been generated in the oak planted section in the second, third and fourth years, with the second year particularly having generated it in a greater amount in proportion with the fertilizer application amount, but the fertilizer effect thereafter is not clear. 24 refs., 6 figs., 9 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1985-03-01
Japan's Outline of Space Development were renewed in February 1984. Under the new principles, the earth resources satellite (ERS-1) program is to be promoted and that research and development efforts for a launch in fiscal 1989 are to be started. Industrial, academic, and governmental organizations concerned making their utmost efforts have established a Technology Research Association for Resources Remote Sensing for the execution of the tasks. The contents of its business are the research and development of an observation system to be installed aboard ERS-1. That is, a synthetic aperture radar and other equipment such as optical sensors and data transmission systems will be developed, and technologies necessary for the development of a satellite borne observation system will be established through evaluation and verification by testing such systems for instance aboard aircraft. Carried out in fiscal 1984 are the studies of required specifications and the drafting of research and development programs for the next and the following fiscal years involving the research and development of the resources exploration system as a whole, sensor systems, and data transmission systems. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
Reported are the results of researches conducted in fiscal 1995. For the formulation of a general development design, data are collected about domestic high-temperature thermal wells through questionnaires and literature probing, and are scrutinized. As for the development of logging technology, a memory type PT (Pressure, Temperature) logger is experimentally constructed, and is found to properly operate in an environment of up to 350degC in a production well. An experimentally manufactured S-probe proves to be capable of heat insulation and sealing. In the field of PT monitoring, a high-temperature optical fiber is experimentally fabricated for study, capable of measuring temperatures up to 400degC. As for the development of high-temperature tracer monitoring technology, basic experiments are conducted about the thermal characteristics of aromatic acids, and preparatory experiments about gas phase tracers. In the study of scale monitoring technology, deep-seated fluids are collected and analyzed. In the field of production control, technical problems are discussed and information is gathered centering on methods for scale prevention and removal. 31 refs., 90 figs., 40 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
Reported are the results of researches conducted in fiscal 1997. In the field of PTSD (Pressure, Temperature, Spinner flowmeter, fluid Density) well logging, the high-temperature performance of a memory type PT (Pressure, Temperature) well logger is confirmed in a demonstration test. As for the S-probe, modification is effected for the reduction of the outside diameter from 70mm to 56mm, and tests are conducted in real wells. As for the D-probe, a laboratory test is conducted and then the probe behaves as predicted. In the field of PCT (Pressure, Chemical, Temperature) monitoring, the sampler is subjected to an on-site test in Italy, when water is successfully sampled out of the well. In the field of scale monitoring technique, deep-seated fluid is collected and examined, and the scale deposition rate in the deep-seated fluid is determine. For the study of production control technology with respect to scale prevention and removal, an Mg-Si scale synthesis test is conducted in the temperature range of 100-300degC, and it is found that the solubility of scale decreases with a rise in temperature. 19 refs., 93 figs., 24 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1988-07-01
This paper puts together the R and D of a sensor system and a data transmission system in the R and D of observation system for probing resources. In the studies of the on-satellite synthetic-aperture radar (SAR), reexamination was conducted on the basic design of the SAR system and its test plan; also conducted were the drafting of the combination test plan of an SAR/mission transmitter and the design/manufacturing of the machinery required for the test. In the studies of the on-satellite optical sensor, the research of the function/performance of an optical sensor system was carried out, as were the design/manufacturing of an engineering model and the design/model preparation of a visible near infrared radiometer, short-wave infrared radiometer, thermal controller, etc. In the R and D of the data transmission system, a mission recording device was manufactured and tested, with the electrical/mechanical performance confirmed. Further, as a result of the test of the mission transmitter antenna, it was found to fulfill the development specifications. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1988-07-01
This paper puts together the studies of the system design and control technology and of the system design and evaluation technology concerning the R and D of observation system for probing resources. In the studies of the system design and control technology, conducted were the design/examination on the electrical, mechanical and thermal interfaces between the satellite body and a mission transmitter, as well as the examinations on the mounting position, environmental test conditions, etc., with results produced. Also conducted were the interface with the terrestrial station, operation mission analysis, etc. In the studies of the system design and evaluation technology, for the purpose of evaluating ERS-1 optical sensor specifications, experiments by aircraft were carried out which used on-aircraft imaging spectro radiometer, with evaluation performed by means of multi-channel image data so obtained. Further, in the aircraft/space shuttle experiments, examination was carried out on such items as an aircraft system concerning optical sensors, visible near infrared radiometer, short wave infrared radiometer, and on-satellite synthetic-aperture radar. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1995-03-01
The paper reported on the research, design, and evaluation on a system to recover by sedimentation magnesium from the brine in the salt manufacture by solar evaporation in Mexico, and a system to recover by adsorbent lithium, boron, etc. from the brine of the solar pond salt field in China. In the case of Mexico, an overall recovery system was developed, but in the evaluation of economy of the system, it cannot be said that the system is feasible even if assuming that the required fresh water can be secured. It was found out that the economical efficiency largely depends upon the cost of hydrated lime and the selling price of magnesia clinker. In the case of China, a plant for production of 500 tons/year of lithium carbonate was conceptually designed to evaluate the economical efficiency. As a result, the internal profitability of the plant is not so high, approximately 6%, though continuously profitable during the operation of 15 years. It was indicated that the project was not economically very efficient. 164 figs., 44 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
With an objective to develop geothermal resources, research and development has been performed on the production technologies for the deep-seated geothermal resources, such as pressure, temperature, flow speed and density (PTSD) logging technologies. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1999. In the actual well test on the developed D-probe, it was verified that the probe operates normally under high temperature environment (342 degrees C) which exceeds the measurement limit of conductive cables (315 degrees C). In developing the PTC monitoring technology, the downhole sampler was improved, and a test was performed in the actual hole in the Hijiori area in Yamagata Prefecture. As a result, collection of hot water of about 900 mL has become possible. In developing the high-temperature tracer monitoring technology, simulation was performed keeping in mind charging the tracer into the Hijiori geothermal area, whereas specifications for charging and collecting the tracer were determined. In developing the scale monitoring technology, experiments were carried out on the fluid systems under deep geothermal conditions by using scale forming devices, by which it was indicated that silica is the important scale constituent. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
Under an assumed plan of building a geothermal power station in the Shiramizugoe area of Makizono-cho, Aira-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture, investigations will be conducted under a 4-year program into the amount of geothermal resources, the dimensions and cost performance of a geothermal power station under consideration, and the environmental impact that the locating of such will incur, through for example identifying areas containing geothermal reservoirs suitable for geothermal power generation. In fiscal 1999, activities were conducted in the three fields of (1) survey plan preparation, (2) comprehensive analysis, and (3) environmental assessment. Under item (1), a survey and coordination implementation plan was prepared, existing data were analyzed for the construction of geothermal models out of which a suitable geothermal structure was specified for digging, and a list was drafted of locations for borehole digging for fiscal 2000. Under item (2), it was found that most of the past surveys covered the Ogiri area and that the Shiramizugoe area was but poorly covered. Discussion was made on the geological structure, geothermal structure, geothermal water hydraulic structure, and the geothermal water system. Under item (3), the plan was summarily explained to the local administration, associations of hot spring hotels, and inhabitants in the vicinity, and their consent was obtained. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
The deep-sea manganese nodule mining system in this report collects efficiently and continuously a large quantity of manganese nodules in existence in the 5,000m-deep sea floor. The aim of the project is to develop and build an experimental system for a real mining machine and to perform a comprehensive marine test to find out if such a real machine is technologically and economically feasible. The system under this project is divided into four systems, which are a nodule mining system, nodule lifting system, nodule handling system, and a measurement control system. The nodule mining system travels on the sea bottom efficiently collecting manganese nodules and forwarding them into the nodule lifting system. Only a few systems of this kind have so far been developed, however, and therefore much endeavor needs to be exerted for the development of technologies involved. The nodule lifting system is divided into a pump lift unit, air lift unit, and a nodule lifting pipe. The pump lift unit and air lift unit elevate manganese nodules supplied from the nodule collecting unit to the sea surface. The nodule lifting pipe provides a passage for nodules to run through upward. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
This report describes the titled research cooperation. Joint R and D with Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia was made on collection and preservation of bio-resources such as tropical rain forest, and sustainable use of them by developing countries themselves. The project includes the simple identification and preservation technology of biospecies such as microorganism, assessment and monitoring technology of ecosystem, search of useful functions of biospecies, and construction of a bio-resource information network. This project promotes conversion of excessive hunting into resource conservation in agriculture, forestry and fisheries industries, and establishment of the basis of new product development in chemical and pharmaceutical industries. This project also contributes to preparation of the basic scheme of developed countries including Japan to countries holding bio-resources in addition to industrial basis preparation of every country. Until 1997, basis establishment has been made such as training of researchers, preparation of equipment and technical guidance, and in the final 1998, various results such as extraction of promising samples from microorganisms were obtained. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-05-01
This paper explains the development of marine resources utilization system for energy conservation. The conceptual system is designed to take a large amount of deep sea water of 100 thousand to 1 million tons a day, to utilize it from the viewpoint of energy conservation using its coldness and purity characteristics, to then discharge it to the area of the sea in minimizing the environmental effect as well as obtaining effect such as absorption of carbon dioxide gas through cultivation of phyto-plankton. In pump-up technology, a piping system attaching on sea bed or floating with one or multiple constraints is applicable at present to all sites of geographical and oceanographic conditions. In utilization technology, use of deep-sea water as cooling water at a steam power plant, for example, improves generation efficiency by one point or more. In discharge and environment-related technologies, the research revealed that the deep-sea water from 300 m below releases carbon dioxide gas at surface, while photosynthesis can absorb the gas in the process of using nutrition contained in the deep-sea water; therefore, comprehensive examination is necessary taking energy utilization effect into account. Candidate sites were selected in areas of 200 m depth and within 5 km off-shore, with the optimum system examined at each site. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1995-03-01
The paper reports on the fiscal 1994 results of the study of the development of a technology for collecting deep-seated geothermal resources, which has been made for increasing the capacity of the geothermal power generation as a part of the New Sunshine Project. As a plan for the development, a development is made of logging equipment and its auxiliary system and then characteristics of the deep-seated geothermal well are clarified. The logging equipment is a PTSD (pressure/temperature/spinner flow-meter/fluid density) logger which stands the use at deep-seated geothermal wells of 400{degree}C and 490 kgf/cm{sup 2} and measures pressure, temperature, flow rate and fluid density under static and dynamic conditions. In this fiscal year, metal seals were developed for preventing geothermal fluids from penetrating into the PT probe. Qualities and inner/outer diameters of various kinds of structural materials used in the S probe were determined, and output necessary enough to detect the rotation number is obtained. Measuring precision of D logging by {gamma} rays was evaluated. The study was made of the monitoring technology including the borehole and ground measuring system, the borehole fluid sampling and the scale formation. Relating to the tracer widely used in monitoring of hydrothermal reservoirs, investigated was the trend of the technology from abroad. 8 refs., 60 figs., 26 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
Items of information about deep seated geothermal resource production technologies were collected, and tests and studies were performed using actual wells. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 2000. In developing the PTDS logging technology, it was verified in the actual well tests that the measured density of a D probe is consistent with the theoretical density, and the accuracy is satisfactory. The extended time measurement at fixed points on temperatures of fluids in the wells, pressures, flow rates, and fluid densities has identified chronological change of the characteristics of the fluids in the wells, including the enthalpy, proving them to be effective in well control. In developing the PTC monitoring technology, a fluid extracting machine for the downhole fluid sampler was fabricated, which has collected hot water successfully in the actual well twice out of seven attempts. In developing the high temperature tracer monitoring technology, experiments were performed using vapor phase and liquid phase tracers, whereas re-discharge of all the tracer materials was identified. In developing the scale preventing and removing technology, a silica recovering device capable of treating hot water at 0.6 ton per hour as maximum was fabricated, and the site tests were performed by using cation-based coagulant. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
An experimental study was conducted with the aim of developing the technology to acquire/analyze in high sensitivity manifestation proteins existing in a trace amount and in various kinds, concretely, signal transfer molecules, transcription factors, etc. which exist in one cell. After extracting a trace amount of functional proteins for analysis from the specified functional cell, the study was made on the following: precise separation and detection technique for cellular proteins, efficient digestion technique and contaminant elimination technique of stained protein, precise separation of peptides by micro-LC technique, precise peptide molecular mass detection of each separated peptide with high sensitivity, reconstruction of protein structure by computer algorithm. As a result, as to the analysis level, an analysis technology with high sensitivity of a 50 fmol level was established as against the existing level of several pmol. Moreover, after the separation/digestion of proteins by the 2D electrophoresis, a series of the process automation system was completed which is high-precise separation using protein columns - molecular analysis - structure prediction by computer. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1994-04-01
The Research Center for Carbonaceous Resources was established in April 1991 for the purpose of developing a comprehensive process for converting carbonaceous resources into clean fuels or into materials equipped with advanced functions. In this report, the track records etc. of the center are introduced. Under study in the conversion process research department is the organization of a comprehensive coal conversion process which will be a combination of solvent extraction, catalytic decomposition, and catalytic gasification, whose goal is to convert coal in a clean way at high efficiency. Under study in the conversion catalyst research department are the development of a coal denitrogenation method, development of a low-temperature gasification method by use of inexpensive catalysts, synthesis of C{sub 2} hydrocarbons in a methane/carbon dioxide reaction, etc. Other endeavors under way involve the designing and development of new organic materials such as new carbon materials and a study of the foundation on which such efforts stand, that is, the study of the control of reactions between solids. Furthermore, in the study of interfacial reaction control, the contact gasification of coal, brown coal ion exchange capacity and surface conditions, carbonization of cation exchanged brown coal, etc., are being developed. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
Cooperative researches were conducted between Japan and Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia for the purpose of the technology development to make developing countries themselves preserve bioresources existing in tropical forests and use those sustainably. The research subjects for Thailand are a strategical study on eating of the primates, improvement of a microorganism culture collection system, preservation of biological diversification using an artificial ecosystem, bioresource utilization, etc. The subjects for Indonesia are a study of a microorganism culture collection system, study of plant preservation technology, study of microorganism utilization technology, study of plant utilization technology, promotion of the founding of the Indonesia tropical bioresource information center, etc. The subjects for Malaysia are biological diversification database and gene bank, assessment/monitoring of the ocean ecosystem, assessment and inventory of the ecosystem using hi-tech technology, search/separation of bioactive substances originated from microorganism/plant, etc. 26 refs., 24 figs., 81 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Aizaki, M. [Shimane Univ., Matsue (Japan)] Nakasato, H. [Top Ecology Co. Ltd., Tokyo (Japan)
1997-09-10
Applying the hydroponic biofilter method as a direct purification method for a hyper-eutrophic lake water, an experiment was carried out at the Tsuchiura Port on Lake Kasumigaura to obtain data for constructing a hydrophilic artificial wetland. Purification of hyper-eutrophic lake water containing a large amount of water blooms in summer was attempted applying the hydroponic biofilter method for which hydrophyte is used. As a result, it was clarified, by applying the hydroponic biofilter method, that capturing effect of suspended substances can be achieved in the rooting zone, captured suspended substances are decomposed at high rate, and the revolved nutrient salt can be absorbed and assimilated by the use of plants having high growth rates. Ipomoea aquatica had the highest removal activity, followed by nasturtium officinal, menthe spicata, and oenanthe javanica. As a result, it became clear that a constructed wetland made with the hydroponic biofilter method can be applied as a direct purifying method for hyper-eutrophic lake water by selecting appropriate plants in accordance with season. 18 refs., 1 fig., 4 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
In order to clarify the effect of microgravity on vital functions and organisms at a cell level, this research studies the molecular biological response function of higher animals, the gravity acceptable mechanism of single-cell organisms, the effect of gravity on geotaxis of insects, measurement of monoamine system neurotransmitters of rat hippocampus by dialysis in a brain and the effect of microgravity on it, the effect of microgravity on water and bone metabolism functions and immunity function, and the analysis of BZ reaction as a simple model of vital reaction. The themes of the research are as follows: the effect of microgravity environment on cell fusion, the analysis of gravity acceptable mechanisms of single-cell organisms, the effect of oriental medical treatment on bone metabolism anomaly of mouses under microgravity environment, the effect of oriental medical treatment on change in physiological function under microgravity environment, the effect of microgravity environment on immunity systems, the effect of gravity on cell activities, the effect of a gravity field on chemical oscillation reaction, and the effect of gravity on geotaxis of insects. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1983-08-01
Described herein are the final evaluation results obtained by the 7-year R and D project, beginning in the FY 1976, established by the national project system for developing the techniques for treating urban solid wastes. This project has developed a semi-wet type selective crushing/sorting unit for sorting the wastes, and established the elementary techniques for recycling the wastes into various products, e.g., compost, pulp, combustible gases, aggregates, methane gas, or fuel oil. Two types of total treating systems, in which these elementary techniques are integrated, have been developed; one is to recover materials and the other energy. They can comprehensively, efficiently treat the wastes, adapting themselves to various situations. Pyrolysis which discharges reduced quantities of flue gases is adopted. Waste water is treated, mainly by biological treatment which is supported by the conventional methods, e.g., coagulation and adsorption. The cost estimation results indicate that the total system developed by this project can compare favorably with the conventional incineration system under general conditions, at a capacity of 300 t/d or more, when taking into consideration the secondary effects brought by the recycling/reutilization. This system is commercially feasible, when it meets with local characteristics, e.g., garbage collecting systems, market values of recycled resources, treatment/disposal conditions, and natural and social environments. This project has sufficiently achieved the original objectives. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-06-01
For the purpose of reducing the risk of deep geothermal resource development, the paper investigated three factors for the formation of geothermal resource in the deep underground, that is, heat supply from heat source, supply of geothermal fluids, and the developmental status of fracture systems forming reservoir structures. The survey further clarified the status of existence of deep geothermal resource and the whole image of the geothermal system including shallow geothermal energy in order to research/study usability of deep geothermal resource. In the deep geothermal resource survey, drilling/examination were made of a deep geothermal exploration well (`WD-1,` target depth: approximately 3,000-4,000m) in the already developed area, with the aim of making rationalized promotion of the geothermal development. And the status of existence of deep geothermal resource and the whole image of the geothermal system were clarified to investigate/study usability of the geothermal system. In fiscal 1995, `WD-1` in the Kakkonda area reached a depth of 3,729m. By this, surveys were made to grasp the whole image of the shallow-deep geothermal system and to obtain basic data for researching usability of deep geothermal resource. 22 refs., 531 figs., 136 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2002-03-01
For the purpose of developing deep geothermal resources, development of 'drilling technology of deep geothermal resources' was made from FY 1991 to FY 2001, and the results were summarized. As to the development of bits, the bit that can be used for 30 hours or more at a temperature of 250 degrees C was developed, and the demonstrative test was made in FY 1997. Relating to the development of the high temperature use drilling mud, the mud that can be used at a temperature of 350 degrees C was developed, and the test using the actual well was conducted in FY 1997. Concerning the development of the high temperature use cement slurry, the cement slurry with specific gravity of 1.35 or below that can be used under the environment of a temperature of 350 degrees C was developed, and the hanging test of the specimen was made in the actual well in FY 1998. About the development of the high temperature use downhole motor, a prototype of 1/12 scale was fabricated in FY 1998, and the performance test at high temperature was conducted. As to the development of the high temperature use high strength cement slurry, a cement slurry with specific gravity of 1.50 or below and compressive strength of 19.61 MPa that is used under the environment of a temperature of 300 degrees C was developed, and the test on the long-term compressive strength was made in FY 2001. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
Described herein are the FY 1998 results of the activities for development of extraction and production technologies for the deep-seated geothermal resources, which are expected to contribute to increased geothermal power generation capacity. The program for the PTSD logging technology connects the S probe to PT probe, to simultaneously measure temperature, pressure and volumetric flow, producing the data of good quality even in a high temperature environment over 327 degrees C. Thus, possibility of the commercial system is confirmed. The D probe also produces a density calibration curve showing very good linearity, and operates normally in a high temperature environment of 406 degrees C. The program for the PTC monitoring technology conducts the field tests at Larderello, Italy, to confirm the sampler functions in a high temperature environment. The program for the tracer monitoring technology extracts promising tracers stable at high temperature from those for the liquid, vapor and liquid/vapor mixed phases. Silica is observed to be massively dissolved at 400 to 1,000mg/kg in the fluid under deep geothermal conditions. Scale precipitation rate is minimal for the first 21 days, but increases linearly with time thereafter. The experiments are also conducted for formation and prevention of the Fe-Si-based scales during the flushing period. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2002-03-01
For making effective/economical collection of deep geothermal resources, development was made from FY 1991 to FY 2001 of the 'drilling technology for deep geothermal resources' and 'production technology for deep geothermal resources,' and the results were summarized. As to the development of logging technology, the PTSD logging system was developed which can measure temperature/pressure/flow velocity/fluid density in geothermal well under the environment of temperature of 400 degrees C. Concerning the development of monitoring technology, development was made of the PT monitoring system that can make the long-term continuous measuring of temperature/pressure in deep geothermal observation well under the environment of temperature of 400 degrees C and of the C monitoring system that samples geothermal fluids at regular intervals to grasp changes in chemical component. Relating to the development of high temperature tracer monitoring technology, the following were conducted: extraction of high temperature tracer agent that can be used in geothermal reservoirs under the environment of temperature of 300 degrees C, development of simulator, and establishment of how to put tracer agent into the reservoir and how to analyze tracer agent. Further, the R and D were made of scale monitoring technology and scale prevention/removal technology. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
Technological development has been made on excavation of geothermal wells, which are dense, hard, and high in temperature and pressure, in developing geothermal resources in great depths. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1999. This fiscal year has performed the excavation test using an actual well to verify the reliability in practical use of the developed heat-resistant and durable bit. The test was executed by using a bit with a diameter of 8-1/2 inches in a ground bet having a maximum temperature of 300 degrees C in the Yamakawa geothermal field. As a result, good site evaluation was obtained that the wear and tear after lift-up showed no problems, and sufficient performance was verified in the drilling rate and durability. In addition, the low specific gravity cement for high temperature use that has been newly developed was given a cement mixing test to identify its workability at site and hardening properties, at a test well with a temperature of about 40 degrees C in the Okiri geothermal field. The actual well test was performed in a large-scale lost water occurred in a return well during an excavation by Nittestu-Kagoshima Geothermal Company. Effects were recognized in measures to prevent water loss. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
Discussions were given to reserve global environments on reducing dependence on fossil resources and more effectively utilizing wood resources. Economically utilizable amount of wastes from lumbering factories reaches about five million tons annually. Discussions were made on a ligno-bioprocess that uses these wastes. The current quantitative production efficiency of cellulase by means of bacterial breeding is very high. A problem is production of ligninolytic enzymes, to which application of the recombinant DNA method is indispensable. Combination of steam explosion with biological decomposition or the organosolv process is an effective method for lignin decomposition. Decomposition of cellulose by using the ultra critical water method is worth noticing. With respect to hemicellulose utilization, production of cellulose derivatives, biodegradable polymers and oligosaccharides would be conceivable by means of esterification and etherification. Vanillinic acid, adhesives, resins and lignin-based polymer materials could be manufactured from lignin. Material cost for these products accounts for about 35% of the product price, thus making the lignochemicals promising commercial products. 301 refs., 71 figs., 39 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
Feasibility study was made on construction of the new energy production system by thermochemical conversion or combination of thermochemical and biological conversions of agricultural, fishery and organic waste system biomass resources. This report first outlines types and characteristics of biomass over the world, proposes the classification method of biomass from the viewpoint of biomass energy use, and shows the introduction scenario of biomass energy. The energy potential is calculated of agricultural waste, forestry waste and animal waste as the most promising biomass energy resources, and the biomass energy potential of energy plantation is estimated. The present and future of biochemical energy conversion technologies are viewed. The present and future of thermochemical energy conversion technologies are also viewed. Through evaluation of every conversion technology, the difference in feature between each conversion technology was clarified, and the major issues for further R and D were showed. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-07-01
Described herein are the FY 1986 results of the research of satellite-borne optical sensors, and research and development of data transmission systems, as part of the research and development of observation systems for resources exploitation. The research program for the satellite-borne optical sensors involves studies on the design specifications, in order to clarify details of the optical sensor systems and visible to near-infrared ray radiation section. The major parts are fabricated on a trial basis and evaluated, in order to review their specifications, and collect the data necessary for the engineering model designs. The items studied for the short wavelength to infrared ray radiation section include the development specifications, and conditions of the interfaces with the satellite and with the cooler/detector sections, which are to be reflected in the design specifications. The research and development program for the data transmission systems involves basic designs of the mission recorder and examinations thereof, to draw the base lines of the satellite-borne systems. The mission transmitter antenna and electronic circuit sections are investigated in detail. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
This report describes follow-up for research and development on the recovery of valuable resources, such as magnesium, bromine and boron, contained in the brackish water for manufacture of common salt in the coastal region of Mexico. For the field survey, salt garden, irrigation plant and manufacturing plant of dinning salt were inspected. The optimum site was examined by assuming desalination plant and solar pond. The groundwater in coastal regions is progressively salified. Since the coastal region is a tourist resort with an round-trip area of whales, environmental protection is indispensable. For the joint research with invited researchers, the solar pond system and fresh water generation were studied. As a result, it was found that the solar pond system is an excellent method for keeping thermal energy in a low cost at the salt garden with abundant solar energy, and that the desalination system combined with distilling is the most suitable method. 7 refs., 8 figs., 1 tab.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-07-01
Described herein are the FY 1986 results of the research of satellite-borne synthetic aperture radar, as part of the research and development of observation systems for resources exploitation. For the radar antenna, the engineering model is designed and fabricated, and test system is studied, for confirming the electrical functions, and mechanical and electrical interfaces. For the transmitter/receiver, the basic designs of the subsystems and components are drawn, and the models are designed and fabricated for testing serviceability of the high-output amplifiers and long-term stability of the high-stability crystal transmitter/receiver. Their models are also designed and fabricated for confirming their electrical functions, and their electrical, mechanical and thermal interfaces with other systems. For the signal processing section, the interfaces with the intra-SAR, satellite body and mission transmitter are adjusted, and the results are reflected in the related specifications and notes of confirmation. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1987-07-01
Described herein are the FY 1986 results of the researches of the system design management and evaluation techniques, as part of the research and development of observation systems for resources exploitation. The research program for the system design management techniques involves clarification of reviewing the conditions of interfaces with, e.g., dimensions, weight and power consumption, in order to make the synthetic aperture radar compatible with the satellite body. The data transmission circuits and ground system parameters are investigated and clarified, for smooth interfaces between the satellite-borne mission transmitter and ground station. The research program for the system design evaluation techniques involves transformation of the optical sensor data into the images, and reviews of the second draft of the optical sensor design specification evaluation, on the premise of the processes in which geological experts visually extract the geological data. The validation methods, data collecting areas, observation devices, data processing systems and the like are also investigated for the aircraft/space shuttle test plans for the resources exploitation observation systems. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1986-03-01
Described herein are the FY 1985 results of the research of satellite-borne optical sensors, and research and development of data transmission systems, as part of the research and development of observation systems for resources exploitation. The research program for the satellite-borne optical sensors involves, e.g., plans for development of the optical sensors borne in ERS-1, and studies on the parts therefor, target specifications of the optical sections, light-collection systems, spectroscopic systems, three-dimensional observation, focus adjustment, alignment adjustment, and temperature control. For the detection systems, the efforts are directed to studies on the visible to near-infrared, and short wavelength to infrared detection and calibration systems, in order to develop the detection sections satisfying the target functions and consistent interfaces with, e.g., the satellite. The research and development program for the data transmission systems involves the major functions, interfaces with the satellite, interfaces with the mission transmitters, thermal interfaces, reliability/quality programs, and development plans, for the mission recorder. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1988-07-01
This paper explains the 1987 results of the R and D of the observation system for probing resources. The system is scheduled to be loaded on the earth resources satellite ERS-1 for which launching in 1991 has been set. On the basis of the results until fiscal 1986, technical examination was made continuously. As to the interface with the satellite body, adjustments were made in technical items with the satellite body concerning electrical, mechanical, thermal and environmental interfaces, for example. In the sensor system, the development specifications and interface specifications were reexamined and revised. In addition, an EM (engineering model) was manufactured for each sub-system of the antenna, transmitter/receiver, and a signal processor comprising the on-satellite synthetic-aperture radar (SAR), with the development test carried out. Each specification was reexamined and revised. On the basis of the basic design of an optical sensor, an EM was manufactured, developed and tested. The related specifications were reexamined and revised. An EM was manufactured for the mission recording device and mission transmitter on the results of the basic design, with the development and the test performed. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1985-03-01
The 'space development policy outline' of Japan was reexamined in February, 1984, which decided on promoting the earth resources satellite (ERS-1) project. Accordingly, the Government Research Institute decided to implement the 'observation system for probing resources' from fiscal 1984. On January 18, 1985, a technological association for resource remote-sensing system was established and entrusted with the 'R and D of observation system for probing resources' from the Institute. This paper is the summary of the research results submitted as the 'report on the results of 1984 assigned research'. The report outlines, first as the 'introduction', the purpose of the establishment of the research association, details of the establishment, organization of the association, development system, development schedule, etc., and summarized, second as the 'general remarks', the explanation of the results of the 1984 assigned research. This explanation included the objectives of the research, the state of the implementation of the research, and the results of the research, for example. The paper contained, thirdly as the 'itemized explanation', the details of the individual explanation of the result for each assigned research subject. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1989-07-01
This paper explains the 1988 results of the specialized study in the R and D of the observation system for probing resources. In the system development of the synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) to be loaded on the earth resources satellite ERS-1, the basic design was reexamined, with an SAR system test carried out. A combination test was performed for SAR and the mission transmitter. The testing device was also improved and manufactured. The optical sensor needs to be a system that uses a wide wavelength area and that is capable of receiving a image data of a high surface resolution; accordingly, on the basis of 1988 results, it was tested by preparing an engineering model (EM). The mission recording device records the observation data of SAR and the optical sensor in an invisible area, reproduces it in a visible area in the ground station, and obtains data. The EM development test implemented in fiscal 1987 was continued for the electronics part and the transport part, with the specifications and interface control documents established simultaneously. Combination tests with the mission transmitter were carried out. Studies were also stated on the antenna part/transmitter part of the mission transmitter. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1986-03-01
This paper explains the result of R and D of the observation system for probing resources in fiscal 1985. Concerning the interface with the satellite body in the system design and control, the design was clarified for the exclusive use of the interface between an on-satellite synthetic-aperture radar and the satellite body, as were the conditions/specifications of the optical part, detector and signal processor of the sensor system, with the studies conducted for the purpose of switching over to the basic design of the following year without difficulty. Then, an examination was carried out for the basic design level of the interface between the satellite body and the transmitter of the mission. A detailed examination was made for the purpose of smoothing the interface between the mission transmitter of the earth resources satellite ERS-1 and the terrestrial station. In the operation mission analysis, an investigation was made into the efficient operation of on-satellite equipment, with studies made on the conditions and specifications of an on-satellite optical sensor. In the studies of the system design evaluation technology, picture quality of the optical sensor was examined, as were sensor specifications suitable for the probe of oil and other underground resources. In addition, aircraft/space shuttle experiment plans were also examined. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1989-07-01
This paper explains the 1988 results of the specialized study in the R and D of the observation system for probing resources. In the interface with the satellite body, the result of the 1986 basic design was reexamined, elucidating the interface conditions, while the telemetry command items were also rechecked, clarifying the restrictions of the operation. In addition, the combination tests of mission equipment were all put together. Reexamined also were the interface specifications of optical sensors. Concerning the interface between the satellite body and the mission transmitter, examination was made on the detailed design level. In the operation mission analysis, algorithm for acquiring mission equipment data was reviewed, as were the operation analysis program and the data acquiring simulation. With a case examined in which an optical sensor satellite image was used for probing oil, the conclusion was obtained that the present design specifications were sufficient. In the experiment of the on-aircraft multi-channel image sensor, the subject sensor was found much higher than before in the performance for identifying rocks/minerals and was expected to be useful for resource probes. Image analysis of the test site was also performed. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
To promote the development of deep-seated geothermal resources in a rationalized way, studies were conducted about deep-seated geothermal resource assessment techniques, development guidelines, and the like. For the development of techniques for estimating deep-seated geothermal reservoir parameters, the Uenotai district, Akita Prefecture, and the Hatchobaru district, Oita Prefecture, were designated as model fields, and a geothermal system conceptual model was fabricated. Data of the two districts were registered in a database. Using these data, verification was performed of the validity of stochastic estimation techniques, large area flow simulation, rock/water equilibrium reaction simulation, and the like. As for the technique of deep-seated resource amount estimation, a simplified reservoir model was experimentally constructed based on parameters determined by the stochastic estimation of deep-seated reservoirs and on the conceptual model, and a method was studied for TOUGH2-based production prediction. Studies were also made about deep-seated geothermal resource development guidelines, such as exploration guidelines, exploration well boring guidelines, and geothermal fluid production guidelines. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Kamiya, F.; Haishi, T.; Sueyoshi, S.; Sotozaki, M.; Kato, A.; Hayashi, Y.; Ito, Y.; Hirabayashi, Y.; Togawa, E.; Obino, T. (Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, Ibaraki (Japan))
1991-09-01
On advanced work and use techniques for wood, the aseismic property of plywood-nailed bearing walls was analyzed by seismic response experiments on an excitor resulting in the sufficient aseismic property beyond usual design specification, and the load deformation model was proposed based on experimental results. The evaluation method of heat insulation for wood houses was also developed, and the simple estimation method of room temperature change and the index for evaluating heat insulation for every structure were proposed. On advanced modification and use techniques for constituents of wooden resources, the chemical structure of saponin in woods was studied together with the relation between the chemical structure and biological activity of unknown saponins synthesized from triterpene. The pervaporation property of organic composite films composed of chitinous substances and cellulose derivatives from natural polymers was also studied to develop pervaporation films effective in separating water from ethyl alcohol. 11 figs., 3 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
To promote the development of deep-seated geothermal resources in a rationalized way, studies are conducted about deep-seated geothermal resource assessment techniques, development guidelines, and the like. Data were collected at the Sumikawa-Onuma district, Ogiri district, Mori district, Yanaizu-Nishiyama district, and the Onikobe district, and compiled into a database to be open to the public. Studies were made about methods for estimating parameters for deep-seated geothermal reservoirs. The resultant findings indicate that, in the Uenotai and Sumikawa-Onuma districts where geothermal reservoirs are governed mainly by a fracture network, the relaxation method and extrapolation will be effective for deep-seated reservoir temperature estimation, and the ascending current analysis method and extrapolation for permeability estimation. The findings also indicate that the expanse of deep-seated reservoirs will be suitably estimated using a method similar to that applied to shallow-seated reservoirs. In the study of the estimation of the amount of deep-seated geothermal resources, it is concluded that the simplified model A will be effective in dealing with a geothermal district where there is a well-developed fracture network and the simplified model B in dealing with a geothermal district where supply of deep-seated fluid governed by an extensive fault prevails. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1989-07-01
This paper explains the 1988 results of the R and D of the observation system for probing resources. The system is scheduled to be loaded on earth resources satellite ERS-1 for which launching in 1991 has been set. On the basis of the results until fiscal 1987, 1988, technical examination was made continuously. As to the interface with the satellite body, the specifications were revised by making adjustment in technical items with the satellite body concerning electrical, mechanical, thermal and environmental interfaces, for example. In the sensor system, the technical specifications until now was reexamined and revised. In addition, an EM (engineering model) which was manufactured based on the basic design, was developed, tested and delivered to the satellite body side. In other words, in the studies of the on-satellite synthetic-aperture radar (SAR), the test device was improved and manufactured, with the EM and SAR system developed and tested. In the optical sensor, the test device was also prepared, with the EM manufactured, developed and tested. In the data transmission system, the specifications were revised by developing and testing an EM for the mission recording device. The mission transmitter was tested with EM and also in combination with other mission equipment. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1986-03-01
Since fiscal 1984, the technological association for resource remote-sensing system has been entrusted with the 'R and D of observation system for probing resources' from the Government Research Institute and has been carrying out the researches. In 1985, on the basis of the preliminary design implemented in 1984, a design for the exclusive use was worked out for each system, namely, total system, sensor system and data transmission system, towards the development of EM (engineering model) scheduled to start in fiscal 1986, while a trial test was performed simultaneously for the critical components. In addition, in 1985, since the main contractor of the ERS-1 satellite body was decided to be Mitsubishi Electric Co., Ltd. by the National Space Development Agency, a system was established for the purpose of adjusting the wide-ranging interface between the satellite body and the observation system, with a concrete adjusting operation started. In connection with these assigned researches, the intended objectives were mostly achieved through the cooperation by each member of the nine associations, for which the results were summarized in this paper under the contract for research assignment and submitted as the 'report on 1985 results of assigned research'. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1980-03-31
Conceptual design was made on a database system as part of the comprehensive surveys of nationwide geothermal resources. Underground hot water in depths of several kilometers close to the ground surface is a utilizable geothermal energy. Exploration using the ground surface survey is much less expensive than the test drilling survey, but has greater error in estimation because of being an indirect method. However, integrating data by freely using a number of exploration methods can improve the accuracy of estimation on the whole. In performing the conceptual design of a geothermal resource information system, the functions of this large scale database were used as the framework. Further data collection, distribution and interactive type man-machine communication, modeling, and environment surveillance functions were incorporated. Considerations were also given on further diversified utilization patterns and on support to users in remote areas and end users. What is important in designing the system is that constituting elements of hardware and software should function while being combined organically as one system, rather than the elements work independently. In addition, sufficient expandability and flexibility are indispensable. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
In the general exploitation scheme, technological information is collected about cement overseas, DHM (down hole motor), etc. In the development of heat-resistant durable bits, an improved version of the 350 degrees C real bit manufactured in fiscal 1997 undergoes a test in a real bore, and is evaluated for its general performance. In the development of high-temperature cement slurries, the ultralow specific gravity cement slurry for casing cement developed in fiscal 1997 is subjected to evaluation. It is examined by chemical analysis and powder X-ray diffraction, and its fluidity, free water, rate of dehydration, and compression strength at 250 degrees C are measured. In a real bore test, a slurry of the optimum composition is prepared and then hardened, and the hardened body is kept exposed to geothermal environments for eight weeks. It is then found that the hardened body retains a compression strength of 70kgf/cm{sup 2}. In the development of a down hole motor, a scale model, real in diameter and shortened in length, is built of the motor section, and is tested in circulating water and oil at normal and high temperatures, and its behavior and performance are evaluated. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
The follow-up for the research cooperation for Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand was conducted to make it possible that developing countries themselves protect biological resources in the tropical area, etc. and make the sustainable use of biological resources using bio-technology. In Indonesia, the follow-up was to be made for proceeding with the joint study for 'The study on the plant utilization technology - search for useful plant ingredients' reported by Professor Koshimizu, Kinki University. In Malaysia, considering that equipment is enough installed there and research leaders are very excellent, it is considered that the country is suitable for the partner of future joint research on microorganisms with Japan. Moreover, the merit in joint study is the cooperation in study of information system and culture collection. In Thailand, Japan told them that the study theme has to be made smaller toward the culture collection rich in content and the search for useful plants/bacteria. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
The follow-up for the research cooperation for Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand was conducted to make it possible that developing countries themselves protect biological resources in the tropical area, etc. and make the sustainable use of biological resources using bio-technology. In Indonesia, the follow-up was to be made for proceeding with the joint study for 'The study on the plant utilization technology - search for useful plant ingredients' reported by Professor Koshimizu, Kinki University. In Malaysia, considering that equipment is enough installed there and research leaders are very excellent, it is considered that the country is suitable for the partner of future joint research on microorganisms with Japan. Moreover, the merit in joint study is the cooperation in study of information system and culture collection. In Thailand, Japan told them that the study theme has to be made smaller toward the culture collection rich in content and the search for useful plants/bacteria. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Hirai, M [National Research Inst. for Pollution and Resources, Tsukuba (Japan)
1991-02-15
This paper describes photosynthetic function of plants, and CO {sub 2} fixing function of marine organisms. Among the photosythetic reaction systems, the C {sub 3} type reaction carries out CO {sub 2} fixation using the Calvin cycle, and takes out the carbon dioxide out of the system through enzymatic reactions of 3-phosphoglycerate {yields} fructose-6-phosphate. The C {sub 4} type reaction has a special cycle to supply CO {sub 2} to the Calvin cycle, i. e. C {sub 4} dicarboxylic acid cycle. The CAM type reaction enables the photosynthetic type to be converted according to variations in the growing environment. The majority of the surace agricultural crops are from C {sub 3} plants, of which yield may be increased when grown in a high CO {sub 2} atmosphere. On the one hand, gene engineering may make possible breeding of plants having high CO {sub 2} fixing capability. In the area of marine organisms, lime algae growing in clusters around coral reefs form and deposit CaCO {sub 3}. Reef creating corals have symbiotically in their stomach layer brown algae having photosynthetic function to build CaCO {sub 3} skeleton. The corals calcify algae quickly and in a large quantity, hence play an important role in fixing underwater CO {sub 2}. 2 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1990-03-01
Promotion of development of hydraulic power and others as fossil fuel alternative energy sources is one of the most important measures for solving the global environmental problems. This draft plan proposes, first of all, to conduct surveys on hydraulic power resources on a global scale, to collect the basic data for development of the energy sources. It is estimated that developed hydraulic power resources account for approximately 14% of the total developable resources, the remainder being left untouched. By region, these percentages rise to approximately 55 and 45% in North America and Europe, respectively. These percentages in Asia, Africa, Latin America and FSU are significantly lower, and their undeveloped resources are estimated to total approximately 6 times as large as those already developed worldwide. It is expected that the hydraulic power resources are surveyed on a 10-year plan (1991 to 2000) with a total budget of 30 billion yen, to collect the data and establish the databases in cooperation with international organizations, e.g., UN organizations, regional organizations (e.g., ASEAN organizations) and newly founded organizations. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1995-06-01
Research activities at the above institute are reported. In an effort to develop advanced coal utilization techniques aiming at reduction in environmental impact, coals of Canadian origin are investigated in cooperation with Canadian researchers. Outstanding among the achievements are Professor Morio Okazaki's 'Study of manipulation of transfer of heat and substance in porous solid bodies' (winner of prize from The Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan), and Professor Tomoyuki Inui's 'Study of fuel synthesis using porous crystalline catalysts' (winner of prize from The Japan Institute of Energy). Various studies are now under way, which include the development of a technique of high-efficiency pyrolysis for coal etc. at the Research Laboratory of Carbonaceous Resources Conversion Technology; development of a zeolite separation membrane on a ceramic filter at the Hashimoto Laboratory specializing in chemical engineering; measurement of the effect of hydrostatic pressure in active carbon adsorption, research on the state of liquid phase adsorption, etc., at the Okazaki Laboratory; analysis of heated fluid in porous structures by means of the lattice Boltzmann method etc. at the Ogino Laboratory; research on coal liquefaction using iron/sulfur-based catalysts etc. at the Watanabe Laboratory. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1995-07-01
The report covers Laboratory research activities and a decision that the Laboratory, established in April 1986, will be abolished as scheduled in April 1996. Important coal-related achievements of the Laboratory include the development of a rapid pyrolytic process, studies on coal gasification, propositions for enabling coal to dissolve into general-purpose solvents and for a liquid phase oxidation process, manufacture of advanced-function carbon materials from heavy-weight carbonaceous resources (development of next-generation coke production techniques and of various element techniques for the clean use of coal), etc. As for its activities both domestic and international, the Laboratory, engaged in Education Ministry-financed high-priority scientific research projects, represented the general affairs division in a study titled 'Utilization of various energy resources,' and represented groups participating in other projects titled 'Development of new coal-gasification process' and 'Development of integral conversion process aiming at comprehensive coal utilization.' Furthermore, the Laboratory led the 'Japan-Canada cooperative scientific research relating to the development of technologies for effective coal utilization.' (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1995-07-01
The report covers Laboratory research activities and a decision that the Laboratory, established in April 1986, will be abolished as scheduled in April 1996. Important coal-related achievements of the Laboratory include the development of a rapid pyrolytic process, studies on coal gasification, propositions for enabling coal to dissolve into general-purpose solvents and for a liquid phase oxidation process, manufacture of advanced-function carbon materials from heavy-weight carbonaceous resources (development of next-generation coke production techniques and of various element techniques for the clean use of coal), etc. As for its activities both domestic and international, the Laboratory, engaged in Education Ministry-financed high-priority scientific research projects, represented the general affairs division in a study titled 'Utilization of various energy resources,' and represented groups participating in other projects titled 'Development of new coal-gasification process' and 'Development of integral conversion process aiming at comprehensive coal utilization.' Furthermore, the Laboratory led the 'Japan-Canada cooperative scientific research relating to the development of technologies for effective coal utilization.' (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1995-06-01
Research activities at the above institute are reported. In an effort to develop advanced coal utilization techniques aiming at reduction in environmental impact, coals of Canadian origin are investigated in cooperation with Canadian researchers. Outstanding among the achievements are Professor Morio Okazaki's 'Study of manipulation of transfer of heat and substance in porous solid bodies' (winner of prize from The Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan), and Professor Tomoyuki Inui's 'Study of fuel synthesis using porous crystalline catalysts' (winner of prize from The Japan Institute of Energy). Various studies are now under way, which include the development of a technique of high-efficiency pyrolysis for coal etc. at the Research Laboratory of Carbonaceous Resources Conversion Technology; development of a zeolite separation membrane on a ceramic filter at the Hashimoto Laboratory specializing in chemical engineering; measurement of the effect of hydrostatic pressure in active carbon adsorption, research on the state of liquid phase adsorption, etc., at the Okazaki Laboratory; analysis of heated fluid in porous structures by means of the lattice Boltzmann method etc. at the Ogino Laboratory; research on coal liquefaction using iron/sulfur-based catalysts etc. at the Watanabe Laboratory. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
The paper reported the results of the fiscal 1996 R and D of the deep geothermal resource collecting/producing technology. In the design of the total development, characteristics of the well mouth of the deep reservoir were examined to evaluate properties of deep geothermal resource, and the necessity of the pressure design, etc. were clarified. As to PTSD logging technology, conducted were improvement of PT probe, manufacture of a sonde of which S probe was integrated with memory/battery modules, and the actual well experiment. Concerning PTC monitoring technology, an experiment was carried out on a high temperature use optical fiber GI type, and it was shown that the type was on a commercial level. Further, a prototype sampler with 300degC heat resistance was trially manufactured, and a test to confirm its work was conducted in the well in the Corn Wall area of the U.K. As to the production control technology, studied was the arrangement of the production control technology for deep geothermal resource. Moreover, an experiment was made to examine the effect of metal ions coexisting when silica in the deep fluid precipitates. 46 refs., 107 figs., 38 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
The paper reported the results of the fiscal 1996 R and D on the development of deep geothermal resource collecting/drilling technology. In the design of a total development, the planned adjustment of actual well tests was conducted on bits and drilling mud at the time of drilling the exploration well of the Kakkonda area. As to the trend of overseas technology, examined was the developmental trend of high temperature type downhole motor products. In the development of hard high temperature strata drilling element technology, a drilling test was carried out on trially manufactured 300degC heat resistant/durable bits. In the development of high temperature drilling mud, drilling was done in the mud of thermally stable quality in the actual well experiment using the 300degC mud system. In the development of high temperature use cement and high temperature use cement slurry, a possibility was obtained of composing a slurry which has the targeted dewatering amount, compressive strength, and water permeability. In the development of high temperature downhole motor, data on characteristics of heat resistant stator materials were arranged in a relationship among the abrasion amount, thermal expansion amount and elastic recovery amount, and the database was obtained. 166 figs., 148 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
The paper reported the results of the fiscal 1995 R and D on the development of deep geothermal resource collecting/drilling technology. In the design of a total development, the trend of technical development was examined of bits, cement and DHM overseas. Further, the simulational prediction was conducted in deep geothermal drilling. As to the development of element technology of hard high temperature strata drilling, the R and D of seal mechanism, bearing mechanism and cutter mechanism were carried out aiming at developing heat resistant/durable bits, and a bit was trially manufactured which was integrated with element parts selected by each element technology. Concerning the development of high temperature drilling mud, studies were made of the development of drilling mud materials, a mud system, etc. Relating to the development of high temperature cement slurry, the development was conducted of high temperature cement, dewatering adjusting agents, etc. As to the development of high accuracy much inclination drilling technology, in the development of high temperature use downhole motor, tests on heat resistance/durability were carried out in the mud of 12 kinds of high heat resistant stator materials. 175 figs., 137 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1976-03-01
This paper reports the achievements in the following study items: (1) studies on the AFMT method, (2) observation of heat dissipation by using infrared thermal images, (3) evaluation on the annular topographic pattern in the Hachimantai area identified from the Landsat satellite images, (4) studies on the Tamagawa welded pyroclastic rocks, (5) studies on minerals transformed from the Tamagawa welded pyroclastic rocks, and (6) a method to analyze ground temperature data by using graphic display. Items 2 and 6 in the studies are on the heat balance method, and Item 3 is on remote sensing. Items 4 and 5 were performed as the study on geologic thermometry. In Item 1, a prototype AFMT method exploration device was fabricated, and field experiments were performed in the Onuma area in the Hachimantai wide-area geothermal experiment field. The experiment placed importance on finding problems in transmission and reception of signals from an artificially fluctuating magnetic field, whose result was found greatly contributive to understanding the physical phenomena. However, it was not possible to reach a level to analyze geological structures from the data. In Item 2, simple meteorological observation was performed on ground surface temperature distribution by using an infrared radiation thermometer of remote sensing type. Development was made on a method to measure natural heat dissipation amount from heat balance on the ground surface. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
The paper outlined the present situation of industrial waste all over Japan and the present situation of industrial waste of large urban areas where it is most difficult to secure places for the final disposal, and conducted an analysis on the present and future amount of final disposal waste. According to the literature from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, `research report on the discharge/treatment situation of the industrial waste` and `research results of administrative organizations for industrial waste,` the situation of final disposal from the past to the present was outlined and analyzed to study the future trend. Out of the administrative divisions of Japan, four divisions, which are all typically called large urban areas, were selected, and the situation of industrial waste in large urban areas was outlined and analyzed according to the questionnaire survey and the literature on industrial waste obtained from each administrative division. The survey by the Ministry of Health and Welfare indicated that the volume of the industrial waste discharged from the whole country amounted to approximately 400 million tons in fiscal 1992. However, helped by the improving recycling of waste construction materials, the amount of final disposal around 2000 is presumed to be less by 20% or so than that in 1992. 58 refs., 5 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
In relation to the biomass-derived energy conversion technology which was regarded as promising from the results of the survey already made, the survey was made on the present situation and subjects of the technical development, social needs, energy efficiency, economical efficiency and the future. Studies were conducted on the development of technology for effective biomass utilization and the conceptual design and evaluation of a system for effective biomass utilization. As to the effective biomass utilization technology, the survey was made on the biomass combustion power generation technology/gasification power generation technology, gasification methanol synthesis of biomass, biomass gasification dimethyl ether synthesis, technology of ethanol production by alcohol fermentation via saccharification of biomass, methy-esterification of grease biomass, especially palm oil, and diesel oil production via reformation of by-product glycerin, and energy production from biomass using super- (sub- ) critical reaction. As to the system for effective biomass utilization, the survey was carried out of the regional outline, resource amount and sampling amount, selection of the conversion technology, and economical efficiency of Takatsuki city, Osaka, Shimokawa town, Hokkaido, Yufutsu/Hidaka region, Hokkaido, and Aogaki town, Hyogo. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
The project aims to develop a biocatalyst-assisted synthesizing method for efficiently manufacturing sugar containing polymers and polylactic acids which generate less environmental impact. The ALP-901 derived from actinomycetes operates best with 5% water content, and remains free of hydrolytic effect even when the rate rises to 20%, and catalyzes transesterification only. The esterification activity of bioprase rose remarkably upon addition of water. A polymer with a molecular weight of scores of thousands was obtained in the polymerization of sugar ester monomers. A sugar undecylenate with a double bond at an end was successfully polymerized. The sugar containing polymer exhibited excellent biodegradability. In a reaction of butanediol and lactide, several types of lactic oligomers different in molecular weight were synthesized. The oligomers were caused to react with divinylcarboxylic acid in the presence of an enzyme, and a polymerizable lactic oligomer was obtained. Furthermore, in a reaction between glucose and lactide, several lactic oligomer derivatives were synthesized, different in molecular weight. In a reaction of the derivatives and divinylcarboxylic acid with an enzyme added thereto, a polymerizable lactic oligomer derivative was obtained, which was brought into polymerization in the presence of a radical polymerization initiator for the production of a high molecular weight gel. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
Researches have been made on structuring a hydrocracking process for vacuum distillation residue of Marlim crude oil produced in Brazil (Marlim-VR) being one of the heavy hydrocarbon resources. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 2000. In discussing the hydrocracking conditions, discussions were given on the effects of different iron-based catalysts, reaction pressures, reaction temperatures, effects of solvent addition, and the catalyst made of natural limonite produced in Brazil. As a result, the bottom yield was reduced successfully to 5.5% VR, and conversely oil yield was enhanced up to 84.8% VR by using the limonite produced in Brazil as a catalyst, and by performing bottom recycles under the conditions of 450 degrees C and 10 MPa. In discussing the up-grading of hydrocracking produced oil, a result of 99% by weight or higher was obtained in both of denitration and desulfurization rates. In the fuel evaluation test, a product exceeding 45 being the JIS standard for light oil was derived, which was found a clean product having lower sulfur concentration than the existing heavy oil. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Kudo, K [Japan Marine Science and Technology Center, Kanagawa (Japan)
1993-09-30
This paper describes an algorithm for calculating the equilibrium state of carbonate system in seawater. The photo-synthesis, respiration, and basic production ability of organic and inorganic carbon compounds by calcification of coral reef ecosystem and the change in carbonate system in seawater were discussed. The carbonate system in seawater can be estimated by determining two variables among the four variables, i.e., pH value, total carbonate, total alkalinity, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2). The analysis program proved to give good agreement with the previously calculated results. In the inorganic production of carbonate in seawater, one mole of carbonate precipitation liberates approximately 0.6 mole of CO2 into the air, and the pH value shifts toward acid side. The experimental value (0.55) for production speed ratio of inorganic carbon to organic carbon in the seawater where the coral family is abundant brings about the increase of the organic carbon production, resulting in the decrease in PCO2 in seawater and the increase in pH value. It is assumed that it becomes of a sink of CO2 in the atmosphere. 23 refs., 3 figs., 7 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
Drilling and survey of deep geothermal exploration wells were conducted to grasp the existing situation of deep geothermal resource and the whole image of geothermal systems in the area where geothermal resource was already developed. In the drilling work in fiscal 1994, 4000m-class rigs and the top drive system were planned to be used for drilling of 12-1/4 inch wells, but 9-5/8 inch liners were used for drilling down to depths of 2550m or deeper since the amount of lost circulation is large and the withdrawal of devices may be very difficult. And in 8-1/2 inch wells, the well was drilled down to a depth of 2950m. As to the deep resistivity exploration technology using electromagnetic method, studies were made of a multiple-frequency array induction logging (MAIL) method, a vertical electromagnetic profiling (VEMP) method, a joint analysis method, etc. Concerning the synthetic fluid inclusion logging technology, containers were lowered into the well and a comparison was made between data of the homogenization temperature analysis of the formed fluid inclusion and those of the temperature log analysis. With relation to the making of deep geothermal structural models, revision was made according to the determination of depths of Miocene formations, Pre-tertiary formations, and the Kakkonda granite. 65 refs., 268 figs., 79 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1995-03-01
Drilling and survey of deep geothermal exploration wells were conducted in order to grasp the existing situation of deep geothermal resource and the whole image of geothermal systems in the area where geothermal resource was already developed. Following fiscal 1992, the well was drilled in fiscal 1993 down to depths of 605m-1505m, and a 13-3/8 inch casing was inserted down to a depth of 1500m. In the drilling, four cores including oriented cores were sampled, and microscopic observation, X-ray diffraction analysis, fluid inclusion survey, core property test, etc. were conducted. In the FMI logging, detected were 273 bedding planes, 483 fractures, etc. Further made were a velocity structure survey, a gravity survey in the area of 270 km{sup 2} including deep exploration wells, a quality survey of the Kakkonda river water, etc. As to geothermal structure models in the Kakkonda area, results of the drilling were added to prediction models before drilling deep exploration wells, but the revision was not very much. Besides, studies were made of a survey method using microearthquakes, a survey technique using resistivity, etc. 61 refs., 259 figs., 95 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
For the purpose of prevention of water pollution, stable water supply in the Philippines, etc., developmental study was made of a waste water treatment/water recycling system, and the FY 2000 results were summed up. In the operational study of Pilot Plant 1, for the waste water in the papermaking process of used paper recycling plant, development was studied of a waste water treatment/water recycling system. There occurred problems on minuteness, outflow, etc. of anaerobic granules, but those were caused by malfunction of SS removal equipment at plant side. The problems were solved by increasing flocculation/precipitation facilities. As to Pilot Plant 2 of which the R and D are planned to be started in April 2001, the food processing plant was surveyed for study, and SYSCORE was selected. Relating to the waste water treatment test of Pilot Plant 2, researchers of the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) of the Philippines conducted it under the guidance of the experimental data analysis. Besides, the paper carried out the training for technology spread/acceptance, technology spread seminar, support study in Japan, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
This study is aimed at studying for survey of gas hydrate (GH) deposit required for GH resource development and gathering of it, and further at studying for industrial utilization technology development of GH which is different in formation condition depending on kind of gas with which it reacts. The results of FY 1998 are as follows. In the study of the situation of existence of gas hydrate in the tundra, the sedimentary environment of the tundra where natural gas hydrate exists was simulated in laboratory to measure thermal conductivity of the sediments including GH. In this fiscal year, design/fabrication/calibration were conducted of the GH synthesizer and thermal analyzer. In the study of GH gathering technology in the tundra, a technology is discussed for recovering gas from GH layer and at the same time substituting CO2 hydrate for GH by blowing CO2 into the geologic layer. In FY 1998, formation/dissociation behaviors were first studied of methane/CO2 mixture hydrate. For the overall energy development of GH resource and promotion of R and D of the utilization technology, studies were made on physical properties of GH and development of the usage. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
Survey was made on material production technology using creation technology of high-efficiency renewable resources (photosynthesis reaction of plants). Industrially usable plant resources in overseas countries and Japan were arranged, and plant resources unused for food were also surveyed. The present state of genetic engineering necessary for metabolic engineering of higher plants such as fit and high-expression technology of genes, plant cell cultivation, and control technology of plant cell multiplication is described, and elementary technologies required for future gene-recombined plants are predicted. Survey was also made on the trend of creation technology of industrial plants for fat and oil, biodegradable polyester, amino acid, cellulose, fiber (cotton) and forest wood. A patent list on plant biotechnology was prepared, and study on bioconversion of plant resources was also surveyed. Overseas R & D trends on conversion and effective use technologies of renewable bio- resources are reported, and process design and its profitability were evaluated through a case study. 414 refs., 87 figs., 55 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
Biomass energy is positioned as a promising environment harmonizing energy in the 21st century because it does not break down the CO2 balance in the global scale. The present survey has investigated quantity of biomass resources utilizable as energy resources, investigated and analyzed the biomass-derived energy conversion technology, searched for a promising practically usable technology, and discussed the means to achieve the technological introduction. The foreword chapter describes that now is the good time to recognize importance of and introduce the biomass-derived technology. First and second chapters estimate energy potential and utilizable quantity of wastes-based biomass in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Brazil. Chapter 3 investigates feasibility of methane fermentation and ethanol fermentation as a promising bio-chemical conversion process. Chapter 4 has performed feasibility studies on biomass electric power generation, methanol synthesis by gasification, thermal decomposition and gasification as promising thermo-chemical conversion processes. Chapter 5 proposed a biomass electric power generation system, a biomass-gasified methanol synthesizing system, and a dimethyl ether production system. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-07-01
In Asian countries, the economic growth rate is extremely higher as compared with the world average, and accordingly a large growth in energy supply/demand and electric power supply/demand is paid attention to. Besides, at users` side, a fear is the worsening of the environmental problem which is brought about by a rapid increase in energy consumption. At suppliers` side, introduction/expansion of a large amount of foreign funds for rapid promotion of power source development become necessary so that supplying facilities catch up with the growth in demand. Moreover, dependence of the supply upon outside the area is becoming higher, and problems in safety guarantee are also becoming prominent. As for energy/power source mix in East Asian countries, the stable supply is basically considered as most important, and economical efficiency is also important including competition conditions among energies and potential raising of investment in supplying facilities. It is no exaggeration to say that the increase in the rate of coal which occupies most of the primary energy supply/power source in East Asian countries depends upon the progress of environmental harmony technology such as clean coal technology. 39 figs., 132 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
A survey is conducted concerning environmentally friendly industrial technologies that utilize renewable resources, which are technologies of creating highly renewable resources and converting renewable resources by breeding industrial vegetation. In relation with the creation technologies, the state of research and development of basic technologies is surveyed, which involves the fabrication of environmental stress resisting vegetation, studies for the application of the gene expression control mechanism, introduction of multigenes and site-directed genes, etc. Concerning the respective target products expected to be produced by industrial vegetation, as much information as possible relative to genes is collected on the current state of production, metabolism in vegetation and microbials, and biosynthesis. Surveyed in relation with the bioconversion technology are the conversion of vegetation-derived polymers, construction of environmentally friendly ligno-bioprocess, conversion of sugar, production of biofuels, etc. Furthermore, the technology of treating ligneous wastes with supercritical water is surveyed, this to determine the practicality of the technology at the current stage. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-12-01
For the purpose of commercializing deep geothermal resource, a deep exploration well of 4000m class was drilled in the existing geothermal development area to survey the situation of deep geothermal resource existence and the availability. Concretely, the deep geothermal exploration well was drilled for study in the Kakkonda area, Shizukuishi town, Iwate prefecture, to clarify the situation of deep geothermal resource existence and the whole image of geothermal system. Consideration was made of the deep geothermal exploration method, systematization of deep high temperature drilling technology, and availability of deep geothermal resource. The results of the survey were summed up as follows: 1) general remarks; 2) deep exploration well drilling work; 3) details of the study. 1) and 2) were included in this report, and 3) in the next report. In 1), the items were as follows: the study plan/gist of study execution, the details and results of the deep geothermal resource survey, the outline of the deep exploration well drilling work, and the outline of the results of the FY 1998 study. In 2), the drilling work plan/the actual results of the drilling work were summed up. As to the results of the study, summarized were the acquisition of survey data on deep exploration well, heightening of accuracy of the deep geothermal resource exploration method, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
The research aims to construct a recyclable resources distribution network in coordination with other Japan Sea countries so as to establish measures for the effective utilization of resources originating in Japan. The research covers the needs in China and in Russia's Far East provinces for used electrical home appliances and the supply capability of Japan's four prefectures on Japan Sea including Akita Prefecture. Demand in the countries on the other side of the sea for three major categories of electrical home appliances (color television sets, washing machines, and refrigerators) for 2010 and 2025 is predicted. Part of the predicted demand is specified to be for used items, and a scenario is built based on the reuse substitution rate. On the other hand, in view of the life time of such commodities and the rate of reusables in the amount of waste generated, a conclusion is reached that probabilities are that all such appliances from the four Japanese prefectures will be put to reuse. When the reuse rate is estimated at 10% for goods under the three major categories from the four prefectures, approximately 20,000 articles out of each of the three categories will be put to reuse, and this will lead to a reduction of CO2 emissions of 7700 tons a year. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
For the purpose of reducing the risk to accompany the exploitation of deep-seated geothermal resources, investigations are conducted into the three factors that govern the formation of geothermal resources at deep levels, that is, the supply of heat from heat sources, the supply of geothermal fluids, and the development of fracture systems contributing to the constitution of reservoir structures. In fiscal 1996, the deep-seated exploration well WD-1a is sidetracked for penetration for a target newly assigned at the 3,000m-deep level. Carried out in a survey of well geology are the naked-eye and microscopic observation of core cuttings, X-ray powder method, examination of inclusions in fluids, chemical analysis of whole rocks, analysis of isotopes in minerals, analysis of core fracturing, etc. Also, data are collected from a survey of mud log, survey of water in the well before digging, and from well logging. Furthermore, pressure monitoring etc. are conducted in order to determine the interference in pressure between the deep-seated and shallow-seated wells that accompanies multiple outbursts from the Kakkonda No. 2 machine, to know the water permeability between the shallow-seated and deep-seated parts, and to grasp the anisotropy in permeability in shallow-seated reservoirs. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-02-01
For the purpose of reducing the risk to accompany the exploitation of deep-seated geothermal resources, investigations are conducted into the three factors that govern the formation of geothermal resources at deep levels, that is, the supply of heat from heat sources, the supply of geothermal fluids, and the development of fracture systems contributing to the constitution of reservoir structures. In the evaluation and study of reservoirs and the amount of resources, a reservoir simulation is conducted to grasp the characteristics of reservoirs and the amount of resources. For this purpose, the origin and history of the Kakkonda geothermal field are studied, with special attention paid to the origin of the difference in temperature between the shallow-seated and deep-seated reservoirs, the geometry of granite at Kakkonda, the region of recharge of meteoric water, the distribution of saline concentration in the natural state and the cause of the occurrence, the amount of supply of fluids and heat from the depth to the reservoirs, etc. In the evaluation and study of the economic effectiveness of the exploitation of deep-seated geothermal resources, it is learned that, if a 50MW geothermal power station is to be built at a deep level (drilled depth of 3000m on the average) with a rate of 50% attained in drilling, the steam amount required at such a deep level (presumed to be 75t/h) will be more than twice that required at a shallow level (presumed to be 35/h). (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-02-01
For the purpose of reducing the risk to accompany the exploitation of deep-seated geothermal resources, investigations are conducted into the three factors that govern the formation of geothermal resources at deep levels, that is, the supply of heat from heat sources, the supply of geothermal fluids, and the development of fracture systems contributing to the constitution of reservoir structures. In fiscal 1997, a fumarolic gas test is conducted at the deep-seated geothermal well WD-1b which was drilled in the preceding fiscal year. In the test, chemical and isotopic characteristics are compared between the fluids of the WD-1b and the other existing deep-seated wells, and it is found that the fluids from the WD1b originates in surface water just like the fluids from the others and that the constitution of its gas is not greatly affected by magmatic fluids. A PTS (Pressure, Temperature, Spinner flowmeter) logging is performed to observe conditions in the well with the fluids being discharged and to know the inflow point and rate the fumarolic fluids, and the result is utilized to presume the 3-dimensional stress in the vicinity of the WD-1. An isotopic measurement of water included in the fluids is conducted to examine the origin of the geothermal fluids, constant observation and analysis of micro-earthquakes are carried out, and the fluid flow and fluid hydraulic characteristics are also studied. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-12-01
For the purpose of commercializing deep geothermal resource, a deep exploration well of 4000m class was drilled in the existing geothermal development area to survey the situation of deep geothermal resource existence and the availability. Concretely, the deep geothermal exploration well was drilled for study in the Kakkonda area, Shizukuishi town, Iwate prefecture, to clarify the situation of deep geothermal resource existence and the whole image of geothermal system. Consideration was made of the deep geothermal exploration method, systematization of deep high temperature drilling technology, and availability of deep geothermal resource. The results of the survey were summed up as follows: 1) general remarks; 2) deep exploration well drilling work; 3) details of the study. This report contained 3). In 3), the items were as follows: heightening of accuracy of the deep geothermal resource exploration method, making of a geothermal model in the Kakkonda area, study of deep drilling technology, study of deep fluid utilization technology, and making of a guide for deep geothermal resource exploration/development in the Kakkonda area. As to the technology of high temperature deep geothermal well drilling, studies were made of the borehole cooling method, mud water cooling method, survey of deterioration of casing with age, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
The research aims to construct a recyclable resources distribution network in coordination with other Japan Sea countries so as to establish measures for the effective utilization of resources originating in Japan. The research covers the needs in China and in Russia's Far East provinces for used electrical home appliances and the supply capability of Japan's four prefectures on Japan Sea including Akita Prefecture. Demand in the countries on the other side of the sea for three major categories of electrical home appliances (color television sets, washing machines, and refrigerators) for 2010 and 2025 is predicted. Part of the predicted demand is specified to be for used items, and a scenario is built based on the reuse substitution rate. On the other hand, in view of the life time of such commodities and the rate of reusables in the amount of waste generated, a conclusion is reached that probabilities are that all such appliances from the four Japanese prefectures will be put to reuse. When the reuse rate is estimated at 10% for goods under the three major categories from the four prefectures, approximately 20,000 articles out of each of the three categories will be put to reuse, and this will lead to a reduction of CO2 emissions of 7700 tons a year. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
For the purpose of reducing the risk to accompany the exploitation of deep-seated geothermal resources, investigations are conducted into the three factors that govern the formation of geothermal resources at deep levels, that is, the supply of heat from heat sources, the supply of geothermal fluids, and the development of fracture systems contributing to the constitution of reservoir structures. In the study of deep-seated geothermal models for the Kakkonda area, a reservoir structure model, a thermal structure model, and a geothermal fluid/hydraulic structure model are deliberated. Then, after studying the relations of the said three structure models to fracture systems, the boundary between the geothermal fluid convection region and the thermal conduction region near the 3,100m-deep level, the existence of high-salinity fluids and the depth of gas inflow, the ranges of shallow-seated reservoirs and deep-seated reservoirs, the trend of reduction in reservoir pressure and the anisotropy in water permeability in shallow-seated reservoirs, etc., a latest reservoir model is constructed into which all the findings obtained so far are incorporated. As for guidelines for deep-seated thermal resources survey and development, it is so decided that deep-seated geothermal survey guidelines, deep-seated fluid production guidelines, and deep-seated well drilling guidelines be prepared and that assessment be made of their economic effectiveness. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Wakabayashi, K; Morooka, S; Arai, Y [Kyushu University, Fukuoka (Japan). Faculty of Engineering; Sakanishi, K [Kyushu University, Fukuoka (Japan). Institute of Advanced Material Study
1997-02-01
Studies are conducted for the development of now-unused kinds of fossil carbon resources, such as low rank coal and heavy gravity crude oil, into higher-value liquid fuel. In the preliminary treatment process, the fossil carbon resources are dried by use of supercritical carbon dioxide, when it is found that the resources are disintegrated and water is desorbed. In a low rank coal liquefaction process using the NiMo/KB (Kefjen Black) catalyst, more than 60% is converted into oil, which rate is improved by use of the dual-temperature liquefaction process. This catalyst may be recovered by separation utilizing specific gravity difference. As a low temperature gasification catalyst, the alkaline carbonate-carried carbon catalyst is very quick at the initial stage of reaction. The perovskite-carried alkaline carbonate catalyst is high in carbon oxidizing/activating efficiency at low temperatures. The silica film deposited on an alumina-coated support tube is excellent in selectivity and speed as a hydrogen separating film, and a carbonized polyimide film as a carbon dioxide separating film. For the supercritical phase adsorption/separation of chemicals not to be distilled easily, the NaY-type zeolite functions effectively. Pd/ZrO2 serving as a carbon monoxide conversion catalyst enables the recovery of more MeOH when Pd grains are smaller in diameter.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
For the purpose of contributing to developing countries' preserving biological resources in the tropical region, etc. and making the sustainable utilization of biological resources using biotechnology, etc. possible, research cooperation for strengthening the base of international research cooperation was given, and the FY 2000 results were outlined. In this fiscal year, visits were paid to research institutes in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia for survey of the present situation. In Indonesia, conducted were the study of information system and culture collection, study of plant utilization technology, study of utilization technology of bacteria, etc., and improvement in personnel, facilities and maintenance management power of research cooperation institutes was confirmed. In Thailand and Malaysia, conducted were the study of information system and culture collection, study of rule making of the access profit distribution to genetic resource, and management of the biological resource sampled and study of the route to the industrial utilization. Taking advantage of this project, the contract for the genetic resource search for commercial purpose was agreed between a Japanese company and a Malaysian institute. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
With the biologically originated organic wastes (biomass) left unattended in Japan without being given effective measures as the object, effects are presented on contribution to reducing greenhouse effect gas emission and reducing environmental load, and considerations were given on scenarios to proliferate the utilization technologies. These actions were carried out upon identifying the trends inside and outside the country of developing methods and technologies to utilize them effectively as energy sources. Because of the present shortage in support from the policy aspects for regenerative energies themselves, the back-up from energy policy aspect is an urgent necessity by establishing such a law as the 'natural energy utilization promotion law' whose legislation is proposed by citizens. Appropriate useful technologies would have to be introduced into appropriate applications under such legislative support. For the time being, the 'wastes electric power generation' and 'bio-gasification power generation' systems that have been established already will be utilized. Furthermore, methanol and hydrogen will be synthesized from biomass to be used as fuel for fuel cells. Utilization of the cascade type system is advocated that uses substances sequentially from better ones to utilize woody biomass without waste. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Takami, T.; Maruyama, T.; Suzuki, Y. [Miyazaki University, Miyazaki (Japan). Faculty of Engineering; Kaiga, N. [Toshiba Corp., Tokyo (Japan); Miura, A. [Aomori University, Aomori (Japan). Faculty of Engineering
1998-11-10
The technique now in use for disinfecting municipal sewerage is the free chlorine method, and the free chlorine reacts with ammonia in the treated water for the formation of NH4Cl. The resultant compound is strongly toxic and harms aquatic organisms, this creating a knotty problem to solve. In this report, a bioassay utilizing Porphyra yezoensis conchospores is performed, and the toxicity reducing effect is discussed of the seaweed on water specimens disinfected by free chlorine, chlorine dioxide, ozone, and ultraviolet rays. Porphyra yezoensis is easy to acquire, and the bioassay evaluates the toxicity of the water specimens by evaluating the survival rate of conchospores discharged by free-living conchoceles and the rate of inhibited sprouting. The outcome is summarized below. The injection dose required for inactivating 99.9% of the groups of coli bacteria in the treated water and the trend of fluctuations in the concentration level are obtained. No inhibition of conchospore sprouting occurs even with the addition of 100% of treated water in the chlorine-disinfected specimen or chlorine dioxide-disinfected specimen. 19 refs., 8 figs., 2 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
The R and D were conducted of saccharide polymer using biocatalyst and polylactic acid using biocatalyst. In the R and D of technology to synthesize polymerizing saccharide ester, the use of ALP901 led to success in acquiring hydrophobic polymerizing saccharide ester and saccharide ester with phenol residue. A study was also made of technology to synthesize polymerizing divinyl ester. In the study of the optimization of enzyme reaction conditions, the optimum temperature of ester exchange was 50 degrees C, and also under much higher temperature, 100 degrees C, the enzyme reaction was found to proceed with. In the study of the synthesis of polylactic acid, it was impossible to obtain polymer in the case of using ester lactate. However, in the case of using lactic acid, polymer was acquired at the numerical average molecular weight of approximately 1,200. In the study of the optimization of enzyme reaction conditions, polymer with high molecular weight was acquired at the enzyme amount of 5-10%. It was found out that the conversion rate exceeds 98% in the case of doing the reaction for more than 3 days at the enzyme amount of 5-10%. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2002-01-01
As a part of the FY 2000 geothermal development promotion survey, survey was conducted in the Shiro-mizukoshi area (about 10km{sup 2}), Kagoshima prefecture, the gradually-inclined area located at the southwest foot of Volcano Kirishima, and the results were summed up. In the survey, the following were carried out: surface survey such as geology/alteration zone/fracture system, high-density gravity exploration, electromagnetic exploration, geochemical fluid survey, core test by drilling three exploration boreholes, temperature log, temperature recovery test, water injection test, short-term jetting test, etc. N12-SZ-1 came across the reservoir associated with the ENE-WSW system fault at a depth of 1,085m. The result of the temperature log and the geochemical temperature indicated that the temperature of the reservoir was between 230 and 240 degrees C. However, the reservoir was regarded as the vapor heating reservoir heated by the high-temperature vapor which is thought to be the shallow ground water separated from the deep reservoir. N12-SZ-2 was a large lost circulation zone at a depth between 1,325 and 1,486m, which indicated that N12-SZ-2 came across the ENE-WSW system Shiro-mizukoshi fault. N12-SZ-3 seems to be the area into which ground water flows. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2002-03-01
As to the development of deep geothermal resource which is expected to contribute to increasing the capacity of future power generation in Japan, investigational study was made from FY 1992 to FY 2000, and the results were summed up. The investigational study was conducted for the hydrothermal convection type deep geothermal resource with a thermal conducting heating mechanism, of which Kakkonda is typical, including the drilling of deep exploration well using the existing technology. As a result, new information/knowledge were acquired about the thermal structure, reservoir structure and hydrothermal supply structure of the depths, and a deep geothermal model was made. Based on the model, a detailed simulation was made possible, and a whole image of the hydrothermal convection type deep geothermal resource with the thermal conducting heating mechanism was made clear. In the surface survey, observation of microearthquakes, high-accuracy MT method, etc. were carried out, and a grasp of the shape of a new granite body from the surface was made possible. Concerning the drilling technology, the geologic stratum with a temperature over 500 degrees C was successfully drilled down to a depth of 3,729m by prolonging the life of bit at the time of drilling by introducing the top drive system, the closed mud cooling device, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Usami, M; Masaki, T [Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Tokyo (Japan); Ueda, K
1996-04-10
Steel structures in sea water and surface of hulls are deposited with such marine organisms as microorganisms, algae and shellfish. The deposition causes a large problem such as occurrence of abnormal local corrosion in the structures, and increase in cruising resistance in ocean vessels. The present study has introduced a simplified equation of estimation for current and potential distribution in parts coated with an electrically conductive film, and verified its reasonability by an experiment. The equation of estimation was introduced by following a model of current flow in the electrically conductive coating. The experiment has the conductive coating applied to the interior of a concrete water tank with a length of 10.8 m, a width of 5 m and a depth of 3 m to measure potential at different locations. The conductive coating was energized from copper foils attached on each applied face, whereas the current was applied to two faces between the conductive films as a pair among the four coating applied faces to measure potential in each location. A simulated calculation revealed that the potential range in the depth direction is made smaller if specific resistance of the conductive film is decreased, and made greater if increased. Effectiveness of the equation of estimation was verified by an experiment. This method has provided a prospect of achieving optimization of the specification for application of the conductive film. 2 refs., 7 figs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
The above-named project aims to jointly develop technologies to efficiently extract and recover valuable metals (gold, silver, copper, rare metals, etc.) from slag, with caution fully exercised to conserve the environment, for effectively utilizing non-ferrous resources in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The effort covers a seven-year period beginning in fiscal 1994. The elements which are studied are technologies that involve leaching, solvent extraction, electroextraction, recovery of gold and silver, and waste water treatment. In this fiscal year, wet treatment, gold and silver treatment, and waste water treatment are studied in on-site joint researches and in domestic researches for specimens sampled at the Kazakhstan site. In addition, based on the results of the above-said basic researches, some parts of the pilot plant to be constructed is designed and manufactured. For propelling forward the project, equipment necessary for joint research is procured and forwarded to the site, and Kazakhstan scientists are invited to Japan for training. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
This promotion project on the cooperative research aims to efficiently extract and recover valuable metals (gold, silver, copper, rare metal, etc.) including in large quantity in tailings of ores in the Republic of Kazakhstan. In FY 1995, conducted were the field survey, support study in Japan, acceptance of researchers from Kazakhstan, conceptual design of pilot plant, etc. The ore/mineral for Cu is mainly an alteration ore of chalcopyrite. Au and Ag are low grade and unknown, and the main gangue mineral is pyrite. The low grade ore (waste/much) of the Nikolayevska mine has a tendency to leaching at normal temperature, but the ore of mostly chalcopyrite such as tailings from each place has difficulty in leaching. It gets leaching by increasing temperature. The more the temperature rises, the more conspicuous the reaction becomes. Further, chalcopyrite is leached with priority over pyrite. From the result, a technical potentiality was obtained of leaching of low grade chalcopyrite in tailings mostly of pyrite. The existence of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans was confirmed. As to the recovery method for Au and Ag, CIC is studied. The process of waste/much is solvent extraction, electrowinning study and leaching, and that of tailings is bacteria leaching and leaching study. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1982-10-01
This paper explains different theoretical calculation methods used in gravity and magnetic force data analysis in geothermal resources survey. Analyzing the gravity data and the magnetic force data is capable of being applied with the potential theory. The increased speed and capacity of recent computers make easier the conversion of data into wave number zone. In relation with heavy magnetic force analysis, the paper explains such items as basic handling, IGRF remainder calculation, methods for topographic correction, conversion of primary and secondary polar magnetism and conversion of pseudo-gravity, coherent analysis, spectral ratio method, estimation of spectra by using MEM, spectrum moment method, heavy magnetic force simultaneously analyzing type modeling, constraint inversion method, and other methods. The paper further explains the sequential approximation method in magnetization calculation, methods for calculating equivalent magnetization distribution (methods by Bhattacharyya and Chan, and Nakatsuka), method for calculating equivalent magnetization distribution (method by O'Brien), primary and secondary polar magnetism conversion relation formulas, and theoretical calculation of spectral ratio. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1981-10-01
With an objective to identify the status of distribution of deep underground thermal structure, aerial magnetism investigations were executed in the south Kyushu area, and data used in the Curie point method were collected. This paper summarizes the progresses and achievements of the work during the investigation. The report for April 1981 summarized preparation of equipment and materials by EG and G Geometrics Corporation, and the work schedules with the Idemitsu Geothermal Development, Petroleum Resources Development, and Naka-Nippon Airways. The report for April 22 compiled the site preparation and the test flight. The report for April 28 compiled the calibration and magnetism compensation flight. The report for May 5 compiled the implementation of the second flight , and the result of survey for 292 km in total. The report for May 10 compiled the implementation of the third to fifth flights, and the results of measurements for 584 km, 519 km and 360 km, respectively. The report for May 18 compiled the implementation of the sixth to eighth (final) flights, and the results of measurements for 513 km, 584 km and 68 km, respectively. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
As to 'the R and D of the comprehensive development/utilization technology of gas hydrate resource,' assessment was conducted and reported from an aspect of the third party. This R and D is a timely project being aimed at establishing the basic technology on gas hydrate from both aspects of fundamental research and practical research. In the development of gas hydrate resource in the tundra zone, the development of measuring methods for thermal conductivity and dielectric constants advanced the establishment of a guide for exploration and possibilities of assessment of the resource amount. In the development/production, it can be said that the knowledge/information collected by exchanging methane in gas hydrate with CO2 means no needs for new supply of heat and also contributes to the isolation of CO2. As to the utilization technology, the results were rated very high also internationally of tackling the quantitative evaluation method at molecular levels of the gas included in hydrate using Raman spectroscopy to establish the industrial gas separation method using the low-temperature environment in the tundra zone. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
This promotion project on the cooperative research aims at developing technology to efficiently extract and recover valuable metals including in large quantity in tailings of ores in the Republic of Kazakhstan in consideration of the environmental harmony. The support study in Japan was conducted as follows. As to the Nikolayevska low grade ore, high leaching speed and high leaching rate by grain refining were made possible. The coarse grain was also possible of leaching if leached for a long time. The sulfide froth is possible of leaching in fine grain and in the temperature range of 50 degrees C. The Zhezkent tailings were possible of leaching with sulfuric acid, by aeration, and in the range of medium temperature. The sulfide froth was possible of leaching in fine grain and at temperature of 50 degrees C. After filtration/washing and regrinding, high sampling rates of bulk concentrate and pyrite concentrate were obtained by sulfide flotation by zanthate. The Zhezkent copper concentrate was tested on various factors such as grain size, temperature, and washing/no washing, to confirm effects of bacteria. In the pre-observation test on Au and Ag leaching, cyanogen leaching test was conducted using Cu leaching residue. About Cu, studied were leaching (vat leaching, flotation froth machine agitation (temperature increase, bacteria)), solvent extraction, and electrowinning. About Au and Ag, studied were cyanogen leaching and process of adsorption of activated carbon. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-07-01
Described herein are the final evaluation results of the basic research and development of the system for exploiting manganese nodules as one of ocean resources. A 9-year project was started in the FY 1981 to establish the techniques to efficiently, economically exploit Mn nodules on a commercial basis, which are occurring on deep sea bottoms (4,000 to 6,000 m deep), in order to stably supply non-ferrous metallic resources, e.g., Ni, Cu, Co and Mn, which are essential for economic activities of Japan. Originally, the UN convention related to ocean laws raised development of unique exploitation techniques as the prerequisite condition for obtaining the right to develop Mn nodules. However, the situations around development of Mn nodules were changed since then, to devalue objects, significance and urgency of this project. The fourth amendment of the basic plans decided to suspend the comprehensive ocean tests in 1996, and to implement only the ocean/land tests in which part of the individual elementary techniques were combined. Therefore, the technological validation of the overall system could not be done sufficiently, and degree of achievement of the project is low, viewed from insufficient prospects of the commercial production. However, this project produced good results in individual elementary techniques, which are of significance for the resources policies. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1988-03-01
The survey purpose is to identify availability of coal resources for liquefaction in major coal producing countries in the Pacific basin area. Therefore, collection is carried out on such data as coal existing conditions, coal qualities, production quantities, and infrastructures on coal mines being operated and projects under development or investigation. Coal samples are collected in wide range and exhaustively unbiased to particular coal fields and mines to acquire data to perform selection and evaluation of coals that can be fed to coal liquefying plants. The present survey was intended to acquire fundamental data for the liquefying coal selection, such as coal existing conditions, natures, and infrastructures for the coal resources, taking up as the survey object countries the State of Alaska, U.S.A. and Indonesia. The coal types as the object of the survey are mainly sub-bituminous coal, and additionally brown coal and partly bituminous coal. The amount of coal deposit as the subject of the investigation is 100 million tons or more as the verified reserve. The subject areas cover coal mines in the State of Alaska, U.S.A. (Northern Alaska, Nenana, Beluga, and Matanuska coal fields), and Indonesia (the Sumatra and Kalimantan islands). The survey items are made up of 14 items (see the coal mine survey tables in JN0040851). (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
An artificial mutation/selection system was constructed in a laboratory based on molecular-level findings collected about the biological evolution mechanism, and biotechnology was studied for creating excellent biological functions. In the study of novel mutation generating technologies, selection is performed after the formation of numerous chimera enzymes by a family shuffling process using resistance to heat as the index. Then, a hybrid enzyme with its resistance to heat more than 10 times higher than that of the parent enzyme was obtained. In the study of establishing coordination between genotype and phenotype, a highly sensitive bacterial coordination technology was developed, and a highly sensitive detection method was constructed using a flow cytometer. As for technologies of highly efficient selection, a research was conducted about the selection of catalytic antibodies equipped with protease and esterase activity. In the study of technologies for enhancing adaptive walk in an evolution experimenting system, the usefulness is studied of a terrain survey based on the adaptive walk theory and a high-efficiency adaptive walk method using the mutation scrambling method. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1994-04-01
As a part of the R and D of a biochip, for the purpose of establishing fundamental technology in connection with a biochip having a new function that is nonexistent in a semiconductor, a committee for biological research and survey of biochip was organized, operating research activities, surveying and compiling research situations and technological trend at the forefront of each field, in regard to information processing in the biological field, brain-memory related information processing in the medical field, and biologically simulated information processing in the engineering field. The results were summarized in the following seven areas. 1. neurology of memory, 2. the frontal lobe and recognition, 3. function of the olfactory lobe and neural connection between the olfactory lobe and the hippocampus, 4. the cerebral fundus nucleus and function, 5. coordinate change from vision to motion in the brain, and 6. control of transient potassium current by the astroglia cell in the mouth and the hippocampus cultured nerve cell. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1994-05-01
The paper grasps the present situation of economy and industry in Kazakhstan and studies a policy for developing the industrial machine manufacturing industry of the country. Since the independence in 1992, the country is now at the great turning point in politics, economy, society and industry. The country is forced to convert from the industrial structure of one local area where much of its own discretion had not been given under the economy system of power centralization to the industrial structure which meets the international economic market system as an independent country. Making good use of agricultural and industrial property in the former U.S.S.R., the country needs to export energy resource like oil, natural gas and coal, and abundant ore resource like iron and non-ferrous metal, which were added with values. As the technical base for it, fostering and strengthening of the industrial machine manufacturing industry is important. At present, the situation is that because of the economic sluggishness, the country cannot manufacture domestically even basic mechanical parts and simply-manufactured parts which are required by the domestic energy industry, machine manufacturing industry, and other industries. The technical program to be proposed by Japan is planned to be worked out later based on the basic research made in fiscal 1993. 6 figs., 14 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1983-03-01
Geological structure analysis maps and lineament maps were prepared on the north-eastern area and parts of the ancillary areas thereof by analyzing radar images of a 1 to 200,000 scale. With regard to the geological structures, analyses were performed by using as the original data the north look radar images for the three special geothermal areas to have prepared the geological structure analysis maps. The analysis of the radar images identified ground bed boundary lines in more detail than in the existing geological maps, and new discoveries were made available on faults. The lineament maps were compiled by implanting into respectively corresponding topographic maps the 24 N-S lineament maps made by the west look radar images for the whole surveyed areas, and the 16 E-W lineament maps made by the north look radar images for the special geothermal areas. Based on the clarity and characteristics deciphered on the images, the lineaments were classified into the major, minor, and subtle lineaments, which were indicated on the lineament maps. The lineaments were digitized by positions of the edge points, and the histograms and statistical tables were prepared by computer processing. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
Carbon resources such as coal, heavy oil, bitumen and so on are not suitable for the utilization as energy resources from the view-point of the global environment because those contain a great deal of heteroatoms, minerals and water. Therefore, the purpose of this project is to establish the environment-friendly and next generation-type conversion system for unused carbon resources by developing highly functional materials. This project aims at the following researches necessary to establish the conversion system for the unused carbon resources. (1) Development of technologies for pre-treating carbon resources (2) Development of recoverable hydrogenation catalysts capable of repeated use (3) Development of gasification catalysts active at low temperatures (4) Development of inorganic membranes for H{sub 2} or CO{sub 2} separation (5) Development of adsorption separation technologies in the supercritical phase (6) Development of highly active catalysts for CO hydrogenation Each development has been successfully completed and we have much prospect of establishing the conversion system for unused carbon resources. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
For the work of searching for coal beds, comparison is made between the geological structure of the object area, which is predicted, before actual investigation, by a close scrutiny of the result of oceanic pilot boring conducted in the past, result of geophysical exploration, and the geological features of galleries already in presence in the vicinity, and the result obtained from galleries drilled actually for the investigation. The investigation was conducted at the Ikeshima coal mine, Nagasaki Prefecture. In this fiscal year, 5 investigation galleries were drilled, totalling 1640m in length, and, in the mine, geological surveys, survey and measurement, coal quality evaluation, water emergence investigation, boring for coal, etc., were carried out. Comparison was made, and, though in the 2nd Minami No. 06 air duct there was no important difference detected between the prediction and the actual result, some faults were found to exist which had not been predicted by seismic exploration on the ocean. In the 2nd Minami No. 5 air duct, the actual geology was not different from the predicted geology, this endorsing the usefulness of boring for coal. In the 2nd Minami No. 01 gallery, direction and inclination were not greatly different from what had been predicted, but some faults which had not been predicted were discovered. These faults had escaped the scrutiny of neighboring coal beds and pilot boring. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-09-01
Efforts are made to develop a high-precision high-resolution seismic reflection method, high-efficiency method for measurement in the bored hole, coal potentiality assessment system, and so forth. For the development of the seismic reflection method, studies are conducted to properly deal with a situation where there are high-velocity layers at levels shallower than the object coal bed, and a conclusion is reached that quake generation based on the pseudorandom binary sequence code will be the best for the purpose. The system was tested for verification in a producing coal mine. As for measurement in the bored hole, an on-site test was conducted for a geophysical logging system capable of determining the total sulfur content, ash, and the like, and the system was found to supply high-quality data. In developing the coal potentiality assessment system, studies were made about the basic concept of the coordination of the system with the coal GIS (geographical information system) dealing with spatial data and about the functions of the system, and a conceptual design was prepared. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
This project is aimed at effectively using non-ferrous metal resource in Kazakhstan Republic and at conducting a joint development of the environment-friendly and efficient technology to extract/collect valuable metals (copper, gold, silver, rare metal, etc.) including in quantity in the slag generated with the mine operation in Kazakhstan. For the purpose of collecting valuable metals from slag, etc., the project is to develop the technology to collect valuable metals in saving energy and in low environmental loads by adopting the wet treatment process and to carry out the field survey on the existence of slag, etc. and the research on minerals. As the field research/domestic research, various element technologies are also to be carried out such as leaching, solvent extraction, electrolyte sampling, and waste water treatment. Based on the R and D of the element technology, a pilot plant is designed/fabricated and installed at the site in Kazakhstan. Then, the operation is studied and analyzed to make a technically/economically comprehensive evaluation. In this fiscal year, the field survey, research on the wet treatment, and test on the waste water treatment are conducted. Facilities of a pilot plant were transported to the site. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
This paper describes the survey and development of new coal exploration technology applied in the NSW State of Australia. It is intended to develop a coal resource assessment method with high accuracy using the reflection method seismic exploration, assisted by other physical exploration methods. The Caroona area has a Permian period ground bed distributed, in which multiple number of coal layers exist. The ground bed is covered with sedimentary layers of the Triassic period inconsistently, and this Triassic period system is covered by volcanic rocks of the Jurassic period inconsistently. Faults are going through the coal beds in their upper or lower layers at locations having soft rock beds. Existence of the faults was estimated by seismic exploration using the two-dimensional reflection method, assisted by the result of the physical logging. The results were unified with the result of test drilling to identify the summary of the latent basset lines. Furthermore, the seismic exploration using the three-dimensional reflective method capable of high-level imaging of underground structures was applied to coal beds existing in depths less than 480 m. Multiple number of local and small-scale sinking were detected with time difference of 5 ms and depth conversion to 7 m. Locations, runs, and inclination were interpreted also on faults having small fall which cannot be detected by the two-dimensional method. The three-dimensional method was found capable of identifying micro structural changes and fault runs that cannot be tracked by the two-dimensional method. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-12-01
Living standards improving in developing countries especially in China are the most influential factor to determine the demand for Cu. Consumption of Ni will depend on the trends of advanced technologies such as Ni-hydrogen battery, fuel cell, shape memory alloy, hydrogen absorbing alloy, in addition to increase in global population and developing countries' living standards improvement. Co is far more dependent on advanced technologies than Ni is. On the land, Ni ore is increasingly lower in quality and Co is being retrieved from by-products of Cu production, both meeting the problem of unstable supply. Consideration is made to apply new extraction methods to Cu production; there are some potential resources for Fe and Mn. The Mn nodule exists in great quantities and is a attractive source of supply, but a long time will be required before it is exploited. It is necessary to speed up the study to exploit the Mn nodule, but first of all the problem of its competition with land resources in terms of cost has to be solved. It needs to be found out at what stage of production the Mn nodule is competitive with land products. In any case, Japan should undertake the efforts of marine resources exploitation leading other countries of the world. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
With relation to the necessity of reducing waste construction materials and reutilizing as resource, the paper studied the issue on earthquake waste, in particular. Facilities of electric power/gas, water supply and sewerage system, roads, railroads, information, etc. are lifelines to support city life. Large earthquakes damage various lifelines and paralyze urban functions, and at the same time, produce a large quantity of waste due to the dismantlement of structures hit by earthquake, etc. It is important that the system is too tough to suffer damage, but more important that it is easily repaired. A large scale of underground multi-purpose duct has enough redundancy to absorb external force even if the duct itself is damaged. Such large-scaled and antiseismic ducts are so high-priced that they cannot be deliberately distributed all over the city. Therefore, the paper proposed simple ducts installed under the sidewalk. The duct is a U duct with a cover easy to remove, and is easily repaired. As duct materials, resin concrete using waste materials, etc. are considered. There still are a lot of problems to be solved such as expense sharing with the main body of business and legal restrictions. 25 figs., 36 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
In the research cooperation promotion projects having been carried out, the R and D of an overall recovery system have been conducted which recovers effectively and systematically valuable resources such as magnesium, bromine and boron including in brine made after the salt manufacturing in the coastal region in Mexico. In this project, as the research on the distilling process needed for commercialization of the system to recover valuable resources from the brine, Japan has been collecting information on various distilling processes and solar pond systems and studying a distilling process appropriate to the site jointly with Mexico. As a result, a seawater desalination process which combined the solar pond using solar energy and the evaporation method was recommended as a low-priced distilling method. Moreover, it was indicated that the solar still method for condensing/recovering the evaporated water of the Guerrero Negro salt pan is also less influential in the salt manufacturing process and is viable as a most economical distilling process by studying the structural design and operational method of more efficient solar stills
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-09-01
Efforts are made to develop a high-precision high-resolution seismic reflection method, high-efficiency method for measurement in the bored hole, coal potentiality assessment system, and so forth. For the development of the seismic reflection method, studies are conducted to properly deal with a situation where there are high-velocity layers at levels shallower than the object coal bed, and a conclusion is reached that quake generation based on the pseudorandom binary sequence code will be the best for the purpose. The system was tested for verification in a producing coal mine. As for measurement in the bored hole, an on-site test was conducted for a geophysical logging system capable of determining the total sulfur content, ash, and the like, and the system was found to supply high-quality data. In developing the coal potentiality assessment system, studies were made about the basic concept of the coordination of the system with the coal GIS (geographical information system) dealing with spatial data and about the functions of the system, and a conceptual design was prepared. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-09-01
As agreed upon between NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization), Japan, and Queensland, Australia, joint research was conducted on new technology for coal exploration within Queensland, and data collected during the research and related materials are compiled into this book. The book contains the Agreement for the Joint Research of New Technology in the Geophysical Exploration of Coal Resources (Japanese and English), GPS (global positioning system) survey results along 2-dimensional seismic reflection method traverse lines, GPS survey results along 3-dimensional seismic reflection method traverse lines, seismic generator vehicle inspection and repair report, geophysical logging observer's logs and test bore dip measurement data sheets, examples of outputted shot records (2-dimensional seismic reflection method), examples of outputted shot records (3-dimensional seismic reflection method), analysis and testing report on Girrah layer samples, reference literature on PRBS (pseudorandom binary sequence), collections of photographs of cores sampled by test boring (BG001, BG002, BG003, BG004), collections of other photographs, and so forth. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
This paper reports the achievements in fiscal 1999 on development of gas hydrate resources. As a result of synthesizing gas hydrates in deposit systems, identifying stability zones in compositions, and studying thermal conductivity and dielectric constant of the deposits, the estimation accuracy has been enhanced steadily in estimating hydrate existing areas in actual frost areas. In the collecting technologies, a proposal was presented for a system by which carbon dioxide is introduced into ground beds at the same time as recovering gases, and gas hydrates are displaced with carbon dioxide hydrates. The displacement phenomenon was verified experimentally by controlling temperatures and pressures. Even below the freezing point, the production rate of the carbon dioxide hydrates is fast if it is above minus 4 degrees C. Salt diffusion behavior important in control of the production and decomposition, and action mechanisms of production and suppression agents were made clear microscopically. Experimental and theoretical discussions were given on dynamics of the production and decomposition. The cage occupation rate of methane hydrates was quantitatively measured successfully by using the Raman spectroscopy. Hydrates of gas mixture were utilized to have verified the possibility of separating the gas mixture constituents. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
Research cooperation was conducted in the Republic of Kazakhstan for efficiently extracting and collecting valuable metals (gold, silver, copper, and rare metals) contained in volume in the slag generated by mining operation, with caution exercised not to disturb the environment. The research items taken up for development involved technologies of the leaching of the target elements using sulfuric acid, microbes, etc.; extraction using solvents; electroextraction; collection of gold and silver; and the treatment of waste water. In fiscal 1998, the wet process and the processing of gold and silver were studied, for which the specimens sampled at the research site in and after fiscal 1996 were used. As for the fabrication of pilot plant facilities, all were completed in fiscal 1998, and part of them was transported to the research site. Procurement and transportation necessary for the joint research were also carried out. Furthermore, to ensure effective execution of the project, scientists were invited from Vniitsvetmet, the Kazakhstan research institute for non-ferrous metals, for training, who included the institute director, deputy director, patent/liaison department chief, and two researchers. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
At the Ensham open-cut mine in Australia, an investigational survey was conducted of a new rehabilitation technology which can contribute also to securing CO sink with the aim of preventing global warming, and the FY 2000 results were summed up. In the survey, the surface soil, sand silt layer, brown rock layer, gray sandstone layer and coal seam were moved from open pits, the goaf was embanked, and the experimental section was set up. As to the place for test, conducted were collection of information on adaptive plant species, bacterium species, meteorology and precipitation pattern, soil analysis, etc. Concerning the bacteria, bacteria were newly separated and tested at the survey site, besides the species to be tested. After planting, measurement of the growth amount of plants, etc. were conducted grasping the meteorology and the water-pouring state during cultivation. For the basement, three kinds of spoils were used, and permeability is different in each spoil. Permeability is an important factor to plants. Too good permeability and too bad permeability are both not good. A future follow-up survey will make what kind of spoil is suitable for eucalypti possible. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
This is a compilation of the data on the coal resource land area shallow seam survey conducted in FY 1998 as the basic survey for coal resource development. The trend survey was made from July 26 to August 6, 1998. The purposes of the survey are to study the image analysis method, examples of application of the reflection seismic survey to coal, and inversion technology. The data compilation includes the following: 1. Minutes of the proceedings of the FY 1998 Japan-Australia steering committee (in English). 2. Data/proceedings of the FY 1998 Japan-Australia technical study committee (in English). 3. Results of the GPS measurement of reflection seismic survey traverse lines in Caroona district. 4. List of parameters in the FY 1998 reflection seismic survey data processing. 5. Report on the work of inspection/repair of seismic pulse generator. 6. List of the data on diameter of the test boring conducted in FY 1998. 7. NEDO-DMR CAROONA DDH borehole core pictures. 8. Estimated curves. 9. Report on the trend survey of the FY 1998 coal resource development basic survey (land area shallow seam survey). 10. Pictures. 11. Data on the 1st (FY 1998) new exploration technology study committee. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
In order to realize more effective utilization of non-ferrous metal resources, joint research cooperation is made with the Republic of Kazakhstan. It is intended that valuable metals (gold, silver, copper, rare metals, and others) contained at large quantity in ore scraps generated in association with mine operation be extracted and recovered efficiently paying considerations to the environment. The treatment process consists of the following conception: raw materials such as ore scraps are leached by sulfuric acid and microorganisms to separate and recover gold and silver; the leach liquor containing valuable metals is extracted by using solvent and recovered of copper and rare metals via an electrolytic process; and the waste water is treated and discharged. Fiscal 1998 has performed studies on the wet treatment system at the site and in Japan, the gold and silver treatment, and the waste water treatment by using samples collected from the site in fiscal 1996. Based on the results of these fundamental studies, a pilot plant was built, and all of the facility fabrication was completed in fiscal 1998. Part of the facilities has been transported to the site. To drive the project forward effectively, materials and items of equipment required for the joint research were procured and transported to the country, and at the same time Kazakhstanian researchers were received in Japan for training. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
In 'the new exploration technology test on coal resource' (water area medium depth seam exploration) jointly conducted between Japan and China, tests have been carried out for 5 years on the BDR-5 test boring measurement monitoring system and the diamond bit which are items of the technology development of high resolution seismic survey system and high efficiency test boring system. As a result, the new technology test was successful, and technical economic effects were obtained. The situation of the test was summarized. The following data were compiled as shown in Data No.1-12. 1. The proceedings of the FY 1997 Japan-China steering committee (No.9). 2. Report on the survey of China verification field South Sihu water level situation. 3. The proceedings of the FY 1997 Japan-China steering committee (final). 4. Report on the FY 1997 reflection seismic exploration survey. 5. Report on the FY 1997 No.2 test boring survey. 6. Summarization of the test on 'the new exploration technology of coal source' conducted between Japan and China. 7. Report on the drilling data measurement. 8. Various sections of the reflection seismic survey data processing. 9. Traverse line chart. 10. T3 isochrone chart. 11. T3 depth structural chart. 12. Report on the new exploration technology survey development (water area medium depth seam exploration) geological model making. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
A survey was made on coal supply potentiality in Bowen Basin in Australia. The main coal beds exist in the order of four beds in the Permian period. The oldest bed is the Reids Dome bed in the Lower Permian period, deposited in the south-west part of the basin. The later wide-area transgression has caused the Back Creek bed groups to deposit, whereas three coal measures have deposited in a concave on the raised basic bed. Later, the ocean has invaded into the entire basin. After having turned into the Upper Permian period, regression had occurred from north to south, where major coal measures such as the Moranbah and German Creek beds had deposited over the entire basin. Further regression has taken place to south, causing three uppermost coal measures to have deposited over the entire basin. In major part of the areas identified currently with existence of coal measures, and even in areas without mines, the mining right or the exploration right has been established, limiting the areas having development potentiality. Five abandoned mining areas exist in the Rangal coal measure, two in the Moranbah coal measure, two in the Reids Dome coal measure, and one in the Baralaba coal measure. There is a possibility of discovering areas developable for a scale of several ten million tons. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Tada, R. [The University of Tokyo, Tokyo (Japan)
1998-04-25
Abrupt and steep climate changes of the millennial scale as represented by the Dansgaard-Oeschger cycle (D-O cycle) and the behavior of the global surface layer system in their wake are outlined. The D-DO cycle is the abrupt and steep climate changes that are recorded in the Greenland continental ice sheet, and is grasped most typically as changes in the oxygen isotopic ratio in the ice. Studies reveal that the D-O cycle is a global episode that accompanied interaction between various subsystems constituting the global surface layer system. It is believed that in the D-O cycle there were changes not only in temperature but also in aridity/moisture and in the sea level, and probabilities are high that there was a great local variation in the way the changes took effect. The possibility has now become lower that the D-O cycle occurred in the interglacial epoch in the high latitude belt in the northern hemisphere, yet it remains likely that the climate changes driving the D-O cycle continued in the low latitude belt. 57 refs., 8 figs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1999-03-01
This report summarizes the research result on development of new coal exploration technology. For a high-precision and high-resolution reflective seismic exploration system, R and D was made on the exploration technology of several meter in resolution for medium-depth (800m) coal deposits under a lake of 2m deep. As a result, the high-frequency and high-power source (150-200Hz in dominant frequency, 700-800m in penetrability) and the high-frequency and high sensitivity receiver (10-1000Hz in frequency band, 35V/PA in sensitivity) were developed successfully, and the positioning system was improved. The final evaluation of these elementary technologies was carried out through demonstration tests, resulting in satisfactory results. For a high-efficiency trial drilling system, the in-bore trouble prevention system for measurement, processing and analysis of drilling data (drilling length, drilling rate, revolution, bit load, torque) and drilling mud data (charge water pressure, charge/discharge water, density, pH, viscosity) was constructed. The outlook for low-cost measurement and a safety during drilling was thus obtained. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
As to themes of the research survey which contribute to upgrading/diversification of the effective utilization of energy resources and are important in increasing cooperative relations with overseas countries, survey research was conducted by dispatching investigators. Relating to long-life Si solar cells, research survey was made on the reduction in deterioration of solar cell. Concerning the hydrogen carbonless energy system, the economical efficiency of a natural energy/hydrogen combined system was studied for all areas of Aomori prefecture. About the development of the multiple chamber type artificial pancreas for patients with serious diabetes, study using model dogs was investigated. As to the processing of PVC waste, the mechano-chemical method was discussed in the U.S. The paper further surveyed the following: PDE application to the aerospace field, joint developmental study of the reuse type space transport system by Japan and Russia, treatment/recycling of the electric/electronic equipment waste including toxic substances, technology of the manufacture of nano-particles and evaluation of optical characteristics of nano-structures, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
Technical trends were surveyed concerning the recovery and the use as fuel of low-concentration methane gas or the like contained in the air ventilated out of coal mines. Methane gas recovery technologies include high-temperature incinerators and catalytic incinerators designed to collect heat, method of conversion of methane to CO2 using microbes named methanotrophs, and adsorption methods using activated charcoal, zeolite, or the like. Among technologies that have reached a practical level in the utilization of mine methane gas, there are the temperature regenerative flow-reversal reactor (TFRR) and the catalytic flow-reversal reactor (CFRR) utilizing high-temperature oxidation reaction. TFRR has been reported effective by MEGTEC System after a 6-month operational test of a 3.0m{sup 3}/s plant at a British coal mine. Test and research are over with CFRR, which is now ready for a commercial scale verification test. Recovery by adsorption, though worth further research efforts, is economically away from commercialization at the present stage, and wants more studies of adsorbents, etc. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
The R and D project has been implemented for the bio-recycling technology, in order to produce the extracts and enzymatically hydrolyzed products from unutilized protein-containing resources, e.g., pig skin and fish scale. This paper summarizes the FY 1998 results. This project uses fish scale and pig skin containing collagen protein, and feather meal containing keratin protein, as the major feedstocks. High-molecular-weight collagen is extracted from the pig skin, and applied to production of cosmetics. It is concluded that the extract is safe to the human skin, and can be commercialized as a stock for cosmetics. A low-molecular-weight oligopeptide is produced from fish scale by enzymatic hydrolysis. It is concluded that the oligopeptide can be commercialized as a stock for health foods, because of its anti-radical activity and function of decreasing blood pressure. The R and D efforts are also directed to development of calcium apatite, recovered from the de-ashed liquid, as the Ca source for health foods, and development of peptide, recovered from feather meal by enzymatic hydrolysis, as a stock for foaming agent. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1983-03-01
With an objective to prepare the basic map from among maps of geothermally promising areas in the south Kyushu and north Kyushu, comprehensive analysis has been performed from the standpoint of geothermal analysis by combining the data derived from remote sensing with the data obtained by different physical exploration processes. The analysis has used mainly the gravity data, magnetism data, radar lineament, and Landsat lineament, as well as the latest data processing technology and analytical methods. As a result of the analysis, the area around Kirishima in south Kyushu was indicated as the most promising area for the future geothermal development. This area contains a series of new volcanoes, has the fault systems grown widely, and is expected of existence of water permeable reservoirs in deep underground. The Kagoshima bay area and the Sakurajima Island area were also regarded promising. In the north Kyushu area, such promising areas were indicated as the Futagoyama area in which highly magnetized and high-density volcanic rocks are recognized, and moreover, penetration rocks with magnetic anomaly are recognized in wide area, the area with volcanic actions from the Pliocene period to the Quarternary period, and the area at the north latitude of 33 degrees 38 minutes, and the east longitude of 131 degrees 02 minute. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
This report describes effectiveness of a system for measuring the acceleration and force in high accuracy by combining a laser interference meter and a vibration stand. A possibility of pressure sensitive paper to the impact force measurement in the collision examination is also described. The results obtained in FY 1997 are as follows. For the investigation of calibration system of acceleration and force sensor, one-dimensional interferometer system has been developed, which is standardized in ISO5347 accelerometer calibration. Thus, an interference fringe processing software has been made. Moreover, construction of a three-dimensional interferometer system has been started. For the characterization evaluation of pressure sensitive papers, it was succeeded in obtaining an elasticity wave pulse maximum about 1 msec by adopting the flight body made of resin. As a result, evaluation of the force sensor in the frequency area has become possible. To calculate the displacement of a body structural material in the collision experiment, an acceleration sensor has been made for trial purposes. For the international research cooperation, the working plan of a joint research with US Texas Christian University has been concluded. 11 refs., 73 figs., 23 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1982-10-01
Three technical and business proposals for comprehensive analysis of the survey data for nationwide geothermal resources in Japan were submitted from three U.S. candidate contractor groups, whose evaluations were reported by the Republic Geothermal, Inc. The group comprising of the Aero Service and Golder Associates has few geological engineers, and their engineers related to physical exploration has no experience whatsoever in the geothermal field. The group comprising of the EG and G Corporation, Geometrics, Utah University Research Institute, Mars, and Republic Geothermal, Inc. requires a maximum amount of time and travel expense to adjust the implementations done by four companies. However, this is a group having the largest pan-world geothermal experience, and much experience about Kyushu area of Japan. The group comprising of QEB, Inc., Eureka, and GSC, Inc. requires considerable amount of time and travel expense because of the implementation performed by three companies. The group has some geothermal experience in America, but none whatsoever in Japan. Holding or not holding persons with geothermal experience is an important criterion in selecting the contractors. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1981-03-01
Based on the Japan-U.S. agreement on promotion of geothermal energy applications, the R and D cooperation specialist panel was held in America on March 12-20, 1981 to exchange the current R and D information on geothermal resources. It was clarified through the meeting in Department of Energy (DOE) that the U.S. budget was reduced by the Reagan Administration largely, resulting in delays in development of geothermal energy and construction of geothermal power plants. The following themes were discussed: Japanese and American geothermal development programs, DOE's industrialization activity, hot dry rock program, geoscience program, and geothermal prospecting technology program. It was clarified through the meeting in U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) that since the governmental resource assessment is made by USGS, however, wide data collection is made by other organizations generally, acquisition of data required for the assessment is difficult. Study on MOU is necessary together with fund allocation. Field survey was also made in Raft River, Cove Fort and Roosevelt. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1981-03-01
Based on the Japan-U.S. agreement on promotion of geothermal energy applications, the R and D cooperation specialist panel was held in America on March 12-20, 1981 to exchange the current R and D information on geothermal resources. It was clarified through the meeting in Department of Energy (DOE) that the U.S. budget was reduced by the Reagan Administration largely, resulting in delays in development of geothermal energy and construction of geothermal power plants. The following themes were discussed: Japanese and American geothermal development programs, DOE's industrialization activity, hot dry rock program, geoscience program, and geothermal prospecting technology program. It was clarified through the meeting in U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) that since the governmental resource assessment is made by USGS, however, wide data collection is made by other organizations generally, acquisition of data required for the assessment is difficult. Study on MOU is necessary together with fund allocation. Field survey was also made in Raft River, Cove Fort and Roosevelt. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
This paper is a survey report for fiscal 1999 related to investigations on evaluation on impact (influential effect) of research and development investments, and on optimal resource distribution. First, a quantification analysis was performed on the impact imposed by the New Sunshine Project having been executed in the past. The analysis used as the base the regressive analysis between the project techno-stock (an index of the project budget amount depleted by a certain obsoletion rate after having been substantiated and aggregated) and the number of theses. In a case where time-series data can be obtained on the quantity of practical application, the regressive analysis was also performed between the number of theses and the quantity of practical application. A large number of projects are stimulating research and development activities of the subject themes of all about Japan. Some are imposing great influential effect on the practical application. In addition, it was found that emphasized and concentrated investment cases in the initial stage of a project have high influential effect. As a budget distribution pattern, the concentrated and emphasized investments in the initial stage of a project are more effective than investing dispersedly over an extended period of time. Suggestions were acquired on the future budget distribution. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
With an aim at structuring an advancement experimental system that can introduce high-level functions efficiently, development was made on a technology to create new type high-function enzymes. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1999. In the research of a mutation generating technology, application of the DNA shuffling technology was attempted onto phenol hydroxide enzymes and 2,3-dihydroxybiphenyl 1,2-oxygen added enzymes to discuss the possibility of decomposition of trichloroethylene and decomposition of PCB. In the research of a technology to provide gene type and expression type correspondence, improvement in the vector was studied to increase manifestation of motifs onto bacteria surface so that high-sensitivity detection may be made even on a very small amount of a substance. In the research of an efficient selection technology, studies were made on the catalytic function selecting system and the information function selecting system. In the research of an adaptive walking technology, studies were made on REP, LOD, the advancement experimental system using interaction between proteins as the adaptability, and the multi-dimensional adaptive walking technology. In comprehensive surveys and studies, technological information was exchanged, and discussion meetings were held. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1985-03-01
The paper studied a scenario of the demand for power generation use methanol in Japan by grasping the situation of the utilization of methanol as fuel in the world, studying a scenario of power supply and the positioning of methanol power generation in Japan, doing a trial calculation of the breakeven price of power generation use methanol, etc. As to the usability of power generation use methanol as fuel, in the use for the reformed gas turbine and fuel cell, there is a possibility of making up for the disadvantage in fuel price by future technical development. For the fuel conversion at existing coal-fired power plants and the application of methanol to combined cycle and newly-installed boiler, it is necessary to have a substantial drop in methanol price. Taking an advantage that methanol can be transported in small size and easily be stored, methanol can possibly be used as fuel for dispersed power sources. The potential demand for petroleum substituting methanol is estimated at approximately 25 million t/y, assuming it to be 1/2 of the petroleum consumption amount. The present methanol market in the world is not so large for quantity use as fuel, and for the introduction, therefore, it is necessary to secure flexibility in supply. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
Presently, the aluminum demand in Japan is approximately 3.8 million tons, and the aluminum discharged as scrap reaches approximately 1.7 million tons/year. Out of the discharged scrap, 54% is recovered as the secondary metal, and the rest, 0.77 million tons, is not recovered and dumped for land reclamation. In future, if the present cascade type recycling goes on, it is predicted that a gap between supply and demand of about 0.5 million tons will arise. To cope with this problem, the following are the measures to be taken : 1) development of the technology to promote the use of recycled aluminum metal for automobiles in which a lot of aluminum is most likely to be used because of the increasing fuel consumption, etc. 2) establishment of a recycling system by which the waste sash discharged in quantity from the construction field is again used as sash. From the two points of view, which are needed in the case of using a lot of aluminum for automobiles, the heightening of competitiveness in the aluminum industry and the recycling in which the aluminum expanded materials used for automobiles are efficiently recycled as expanded materials in the recycling economic system, this survey extracted problems and made proposals, overlooking the state of the aluminum use in automobiles, state of the treatment of used cars, state of manufacturing/processing technology of aluminum products. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1982-10-01
This paper summarizes the U.S. geothermal analysis contractors, including the Aero Service Corporation, the EG and G Group, the QEB Group, and the Republic Geothermal, Inc., and the consultants, including the Remote Sensing Consultants. For the Aero Service Corporation, the paper states histories of and books written by major personnel. For the EG and G Group, the paper states the outlines of such companies as EG and G Services, EG and G Geometrics, Mars Associates, Inc., and UURI, as well as histories of and books written by major personnel. For the QEB Group, the paper states the outlines of such companies as QEB, Inc., and Eureka Resource Associates, Inc. as well as histories of and books written by major personnel. For the Republic Geothermal, Inc., the paper states the company outline, histories of and books written by major personnel. For the Remote Sensing Consultants, the paper states the history of and books written by Dr. R.J.P.L. Lyon. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1985-03-01
Based on the results of the survey of the potential quantity supplied of overseas resource which was made from FY 1981 to FY 1983, the paper predicted the world methanol supply plan, changes in the oil situation, economical efficiency of methanol and the competitive power with petroleum products, etc., and studied the time of potential supply, areas of potential supply and supply potential of power generation use methanol during the period toward 2000. In case the comparatively low crude oil price is predicted due to the energy supply/demand (Scenario A), the supply potential of power generation use methanol in four projects on methanol production taken up as trial calculation example is considered very low. Even in case the comparatively high crude oil price is predicted (Scenario C), it is in 1989 that the methanol market price becomes equivalent in heat quantity to the crude oil price. It is difficult to expect the potential before 1989. In case of the intermediate case between Scenario A and Scenario C (Scenario B), it is in 1993 that the methanol price becomes equivalent in heat quantity to the crude oil price. It is difficult to expect the potential before 1993. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2001-03-01
This project is aimed at development of secondary products from unutilized wood resources, to establish zero waste emissions at wood-related plants. Described herein are the FY 1999 results. The program for manufacturing and development of VOC-free interior products has successfully developed the wood boards using only inorganic adhesives, and the techniques for production of doors of unique, monolithic structure. The program for manufacturing and development of artificial wood with high performances has developed the techniques for forming composites of waste wood and thermoplastic materials, to produce the shapes of artificial wood containing 85% of wood and having touch close to that of wood. The program for production of agricultural and construction materials by the barks has developed the techniques for producing pavement and mulching materials as civil engineering and landscaping materials, and pot type culture grounds for high-class flowering plants as the agricultural materials from cypress and cedar barks. Information regarding performance levels, and discrimination and superiority over the products by competitors has been collected from various sources, e.g., internets, and academic meetings and literature, for the monolithically formed doors, extruded products, mulching materials and pot-type culture grounds. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1983-07-01
For the study of the potential supply amount of methanol as power generation use fuel, survey was conducted as case study on the following: Victorian brown coal of Australia, conversion of Arun natural gas to methanol at site in Indonesia, political/social/technical restrictions, supply scale, economical efficiency, etc. at the time of the supply to Japan. For the calculation of economical efficiency, it was assumed that the scale of methanol production was 5,000 t/d, that the plant operated years were 20 and that the price of acquisition of raw material was US$4-10/t in Victorian brown coal and US$1-4/t in Arun natural gas. As a result of the study, in the case of natural gas base methanol, the CIF Japan is lower than CIF prices of LNG and crude oil in case the price of acquisition of raw material is US$1/t, but is higher than those in case the price is US$2/t. In the case of brown coal base methanol, it was found that the CIF Japan could not be lower than CIF prices of LNG and crude oil even in case the price of acquisition of raw material is US$4/t, which is the lowest. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1997-03-01
This project is a cooperative research on the development of environmental harmony type high efficiency mineral resource extraction/treatment technology. It aims to study/develop a system to recover valuable metals from unused resources in the Republic of Kazakhstan using the environmental harmony type technology which is easy to operate/maintain and is environmentally friendly with no mine pollution caused. In the project, which started in FY 1994, a pilot plant is finally constructed in Kazakhstan, a recovery system to be applied is demonstrated, and the comprehensive assessment of the system is made. Concretely, the recovery of Cu, Au, Ag, etc. is tried from the Nikolayevska low grade ore and Zhezkent tailings. This is a system into which the following techniques are integrated: treatment before dressing such as flotation, leaching of Cu, etc. by acid including bacteria, solvent leaching, electrowinning, cyanogen leaching activated carbon treatment and wastewater treatment of Au and Ag. As to the design/fabrication of pilot plant, conducted was the conceptual design in FY 1995, and the basic design, a part of the detailed design (crushing/grinding/leaching/dewatering facilities of the process of the acid (bacteria) leaching of Cu, etc.), and the fabrication in FY 1996. (NEDO).
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2002-05-01
Surveys and discussions have been performed in Yuge Town in Ehime Prefecture for aiming at promotion of district development and zero emission in islands by carbonizing general wastes (household refuses and business operation wastes) and bamboos in the islands to utilize their energies as a substitute for the heat source of the warm sea water bathing facilities, as well as utilizing the produced carbides as soil improving materials or deodorants. The surveys were performed on bamboo carbonizing and gas carbonizing technologies, energy utilization feasibility, analysis of wastes composition, and identification of quantity of bamboos in existence. In discussing the energy utilization system by means of carbonization, it was revealed that the introduction of the bamboo carbonizing and gas carbonizing technologies can sufficiently satisfy the heat demand of the Yuge Town community facilities, although the amount of heat that can be supplied may vary because of difference in the technical processes. Also with regard to the problems of dioxins contained in the discharged gas and the problems of heavy metals contained in the carbides, it was discovered that different environmental criteria can be met as evidenced by the existing demonstration data. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
With an aim at structuring an advancement experimental system that can introduce high-level functions efficiently, research was performed on the unit zone combination technology and the advancement experimental system structuring technology. This paper summarizes the achievements in fiscal 1999. In the research of the unit zone combination technology, analysis was made on the structures and functions of barnase mutants replaced with modules and secondary structure units, in order to investigate how much of plasticity is possessed by the amino acid array constituting natural proteins. In addition, establishment was implemented on the random multi-recombination PCR that can link randomly the DNAs having arbitrary arrangement. Furthermore, the STABLE method was developed successfully to put proteins and DNAs coding thereof into direct correspondence. The research on the optimal advancement experimental system structuring technology using model enzymes placed the importance on the mutation generating technology, or the random peptide library fabricating technology. Research was carried out with an intention of structuring a system to discover quickly an optimal method. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
As for the collection of sensible heat, 1/3 of blast-furnace slag is treated to the purpose at the Teesside Technology Centre, Britain, but none is collected in the latter half of tapping in case there is so much slag that cooling cannot be done in time. In the case of a large blast furnace, some measures have to be contrived because molten iron comes out of the furnace intermittently. In Germany, the heat collection rate is as low as 3%, with no effort made at heat collection. In North America, desire to develop such a technology is not strong. A visit was made to the Institute of Ocean Sciences, Canada, in relation to the concept of using steel slag as a eutrophic source for marine photo-plankton. A large-scale long-term test is under way for examining the relationship between global warming and ocean current circulation. There are possibilities that Japan will enter into the project for a joint study, for example, of heavy metal elution from slag though the test fails to name slag as the direct object of study. Not only for Canada but also for any other country who faces the sea, it may be a meaningful national policy to inject some active ingredients into the sea for an increase in living marine resources. Greece is engaged in the ocean dumping of nickel slag on an experimental basis but, in view of the purpose of the experiment, Japan will not be a participant in the project. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
The R and D project is implemented for design, fabrication and installation of ocean-based artificial deep ocean water (DOW) upwelling devices which can take DOW at low cost in an ocean; experiments for enhancing productivity of ocean by adding DOW using mesocosms; and studying the biological effects of DOW for keeping freshness of marine products. DOW is successfully taken by the upwelling system from a depth of 800 m in a sea area 2,000 m or more in depth. The system has worked to perform its functions even when attacked by typhoons, which caused wave height of 10 m or more. For enhancing productivity of ocean, the culture experiments are conducted in a small-size, on-shore tank, and the mesocosm experiments in a harbor. The results indicate that addition of DOW increases the phytoplankton phase and its quantity. It is also observed that addition of iron ion further accelerates the fertilizing effect. The results of the experiments conducted in a harbor also indicate that DOW has the fertilizing effect, even in a very small quantity, increasing quantity of small zooplankton. No definite effect of DOW, liquid or ice, is observed for keeping freshness of sliced raw sea bream and bonito. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1984-03-01
For the purpose of using methanol as power generation use fuel, the paper carried out of the conceptual design of methanol reformed high efficiency gas turbine and the evaluation study of economical efficiency. The methanol reformed gas turbine is to recover the heat from turbine flue gas and to improve thermal efficiency by using the fact that the vapor reforming reaction or decomposition reaction of methanol advance endothermicly at low temperature between 250 and 350 degrees C. It was judged that the combination with the existing technology made the practical application possible and that it was appropriate to adopt the regenerative gas turbine/water-injection and reforming (RGGT/WI and R). As a result of the trial calculation of construction cost of RGGT/WI and R and calculation of power generation cost, RGGT/WI and R became more profitable than the simple open gas turbine at a capacity ratio of 10% or more, and became more profitable than the combined cycle at all capacity ratios. In the use of RGGT/WI and R, which uses methanol as fuel, SOx is not included in flue gas, and the NOx included is estimated at 35ppm or so. The amount satisfies the standard according to the boiler using fluid as fuel. (NEDO)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
This paper describes R and D on creation technique of novel advanced enzymes. In fiscal 1997, a novel mutagenesis technique was developed to obtain more kinds of mutational genes by shuffling between clonal genes as compared with the previous homogeneous recombination. A genotype- and phenotype-linking technology was developed by expressing random motifs (peptide as components of the active site of protein) on bacteria, and by developing a single-motif protein library. Study was made on a selection system for functional molecules of catalytic activities in a gene level, and a selection system for function of signal transduction. Analysis and evaluation study on vitro experimental technology can be efficiently promoted by recognizing the fitness landscape of target protein molecules. As a result, instead of the conventional method which needs several cycles of mutation and screening of 3-4 week/cycle, an efficient method possible to obtain multiple mutants was established. Research work was also promoted by various organizations to develop an accelerated formation technology of bio-functions. 68 refs., 51 figs., 14 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
Study was made on the design of experiments for confirming the technological and economical feasibility of commercial production of Mn nodules. An experimental sea area was selected considering Mn nodule characteristics such as concentration, continuity of nodule distribution and nodule size, and sea bottom topographic features such as flatness and exposed bed rock disturbing traveling of nodule collectors. The experimental plan was decided on the basis of the survey and study on an experimental scale, various requirements, weather and sea weather features of the sea area, and sea bottom conditions. Based on the experimental plan, various verification tests and simulation analyses were carried out, and functions of various equipment were confirmed. The conceptual design of a mining system assumed both pump-lift and air-lift systems, and yearly production rates of 2 and 3 million tons by 2 mining barges, and summarized main points of every system. As the evaluation result, the future direction of commercial production of Mn nodules was clarified to a certain extent. 5 figs., 21 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1996-03-01
This project is aimed at internationally cooperating in the R and D of industrial technology and improving industrial technology of Japan. For it, the following three technologies were investigated: 1) environmental preservation technology using biotechnology, 2) technology for effective use of unused hydrocarbon resource, 3) technology for development of environmental harmony type catalyst. In 1), a survey was conducted of applicability of biological surfactant to prevention measures of pollution by heavy distillate. It showed that part of the biological surfactants is reaching a stage of its being industrially produced by gene recombination bacteria, but as a whole, biosynthetic genes have hardly been elucidated. In 2), a survey of high-grade treatment technology of petroleum coke was made. It pointed out that it is necessary to develop a technology which makes the most of features of petroleum coke and allows defects. In 3), scientists and engineers of Japan and Europe searched for themes on which they can jointly study in the fields of NOx removal catalyst, up-grading of fuel, and development of catalyst combustion of fuel. 287 refs., 136 figs., 128 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1994-03-01
This project is aimed at internationally cooperating in the R and D of industrial technology and improving industrial technology of Japan. For it, the following three technologies were investigated: 1) environmental preservation technology using biotechnology, 2) technology for effective use of unused hydrocarbon resource, 3) solid electrolyte fuel cell (SOFC) technology for high-efficient electric vehicles. In 1), bio-remediation is a choice as the result of trially using technologies for remediation of the environment polluted by pollutant, but it is not a technically completed one, but one which will be improved by trial and error. By the application of gene engineering, the use of gene recombination enables wide spread of decomposition genes. In 2), technical subjects were studied such as superheavy distillate, oil shale, coalhead methane and methane hydrate. In 3), designed were cylinder type and planar type SOFC of 850degC operation and 10kW output. Accumulation and weight of a total SOFC system are 81 liters and 100 kg in cylinder type and 136 liters and 200 kg in planar type. The vehicle can be equipped with the SOFC. 171 refs., 72 figs., 54 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
1998-03-01
The paper conducted a R and D on the handling of drilling equipment in drilling/collecting of submarine oil and the gas lift of artificial oil extraction technology. As to each equipment of a barge style handling system, conducted were assembly/adjustment/trial run on land and pipe handling experiments on sea. In the experiment, confirmed were pipe transfer function, lifting function, fitting function, grasping function, etc. In the ocean experiment, studied were pipe bending stress, Karman vortex control effects, etc. Relating to the gas lift system, experiments were made on confirmation of fabrication/performance of air compressor. Moreover, a technique of air transportation to the blowing inlet of the gas lift pipe was established by developing an air blowing system and fabricating a long-distance flexible pipe. Concerning the gas/liquid/solid three-phase separator, a cyclone separator was developed, and improvement in lifting efficiency was confirmed. Helped by these, the problems of the gas lift system were almost solved, and a possibility of the commercial-base production system was obtained. 2 refs., 182 figs., 47 tabs.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
NONE
2000-03-01
Innovation plays an important role for Japan to flexibly utilize its achievements for the purpose of properly responding to new business environments and to secure competitiveness in the market. Japan lacks experts equipped with knowledge and ability as regards technology development and management which are necessary for the planning and creation of technologies, and is also short of institutes for raising experts. In America, technology management won an important position in the 1980s in the effort at industrial renovation, and the industry, government, and academia in a body endeavored to elevate the level steadily, continuously, and deliberately, to eventually provide a source of great propulsion and international competitiveness toward today's economic success. Investigations were conducted, and a proposition is made for the establishment of an international technology management research center. Such a center will study technology management and innovation through international exchange based mainly on the industrial circle and through the organic coordination of the industry, government, and academia for widely observing changes in international society for economic frontier cultivation. A practical training and intelligent network will be organized on the global scale, which will serve as an information transmitter. A skeleton of the plan is shown. (NEDO)