一般財団法人材料科学技術振興財団　MST List of Products and Services

Saturation Transfer Difference (STD) NMR is a type of NMR analytical method used to identify low molecular weight compounds that interact with proteins, demonstrating significant power in drug screening and other applications. This document presents a case study where specific compounds that interact with a particular protein were identified from multiple compound groups using STD-NMR measurements. Measurement method: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) Product fields: Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Food Analysis purpose: Screening, Drug Design, Interaction Evaluation For more details, please download the document or contact us.

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Deep learning enables the extraction of target objects from images. Additionally, by analyzing the regions corresponding to the obtained targets, information can be obtained in numerical form. In this instance, we used deep learning to extract active material particles and detect cracks in cross-sectional SEM images of battery cathode materials. Extraction is also possible for 3D data, such as Slice&View data. We extracted particles with and without cracks from the 3D data and calculated their respective particle sizes. Measurement methods: SEM, Slice&View, computational science, AI, data analysis Product fields: Solar cells, secondary batteries, fuel cells Analysis purposes: Structural evaluation, shape evaluation, failure analysis, defect analysis For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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We observed a sample mixed with three types of lactic acid bacteria using SEM, and extracted the bacteria by type using deep learning from the obtained images. Furthermore, we conducted data analysis to determine the presence ratio on the cell cycle based on the shape of the lactic acid bacteria. Measurement methods: SEM, computational science, AI, data analysis Product fields: Biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, daily necessities, cosmetics, food Analysis purpose: Shape evaluation, product investigation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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Hair that has been damaged by factors such as hair color, ultraviolet rays, and aging undergoes structural changes, and measuring these structural changes is important for the research and development of hair care products. In this case, we observed the structure of hair using X-ray CT. Furthermore, by performing image analysis on the obtained CT cross-sectional images, we created histograms of the void volume in the cortex and the spacing of the cuticles. By combining X-ray CT and image analysis in this way, it is possible to quantitatively evaluate the three-dimensional structure of hair. Measurement methods: X-ray CT, computational science, AI, data analysis Product fields: Biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics Analysis objectives: Shape evaluation, structural evaluation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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From very small and simple systems such as single molecules and clusters to relatively complex systems such as interfaces, defects, and external fields (electric fields, pressure, etc.), we can handle a wide range of scenarios. ■ Effective Situations - When you want to verify hypotheses established at the atomic or molecular level regarding the phenomenon of interest - When you want to perform detailed attribution and interpretation of various spectroscopic spectra ■ Features of MST - We can provide a one-stop service from the proposal of computational models to analysis - We have our own computational environment, allowing us to handle highly confidential data - Simulations leveraging the expertise of analysis and AI specialists are possible ■ Supported Computational Methods - Quantum chemical calculations - First-principles calculations - Molecular dynamics calculations

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X-ray CT analysis allows for the non-destructive comparison and investigation of the structure and dimensions of components. This document presents a measurement case of a rubber O-ring used in vacuum equipment. To investigate a long-used item that is leaking gas, X-ray CT analysis and three-dimensional image analysis were conducted, comparing it with data from a new item. As a result, it was found that the long-used item had localized areas where the thickness of the ring was reduced, suggesting that leaks were occurring from those points. Measurement method: X-ray CT Product fields: Manufacturing equipment and parts, polymer materials, daily necessities Analysis purposes: Shape evaluation, film thickness evaluation, structural evaluation, failure analysis, defect analysis, degradation investigation, reliability evaluation, product investigation For more details, please download the document or contact us.

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To investigate the causes of defects such as poor adhesion, it is important to gain insights into the surfaces of wafers and devices. In this instance, hydrophobic areas were observed on a silicon wafer, prompting wide-area imaging using TOF-SIMS. As a result, components estimated to be silicone oil, CF-based grease, and paraffin oil were identified from the hydrophobic areas. TOF-SIMS typically has a measurement field of view up to 500μm square, but by moving the stage during measurement, it is possible to evaluate wide-area distributions. Measurement method: TOF-SIMS Product fields: Devices, Displays, Electronic Components, Manufacturing Equipment Analysis objectives: Qualitative, Imaging, Composition Distribution Evaluation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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Optical fibers have a structure that consists of a core with a high refractive index surrounded by a cladding layer with a low refractive index. Due to the difference in refractive indices, light is totally internally reflected at the boundary and transmitted. Therefore, it is important to analyze the selection of materials, the presence of impurities, adhesion, coating conditions, and contaminants. Optical fibers can be broadly classified into two types: plastic and quartz. This document presents a case study in which the materials of the core and cladding were identified by analyzing the cross-section of plastic optical fibers using TOF-SIMS. Measurement method: TOF-SIMS Product field: Optical fibers, electronic components Analysis purpose: Qualitative evaluation, organic matter evaluation, composition distribution evaluation "For more details, please download the document or contact us."

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Anomaly detection is a technique for finding data that does not match other patterns within large amounts of data. By incorporating anomaly detection into product development and manufacturing, labor-saving in quality control and other areas is expected. Furthermore, by conducting equipment analysis, the essence of anomalies can be scientifically investigated.

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• Other image-related equipment

MI refers to an approach that utilizes information science and technology in the field of materials research and development. It can be adopted by any company or organization involved in manufacturing and other industries. By leveraging existing data, it aims to achieve efficient experimental processes and acquire new insights that cannot be obtained solely through human knowledge and experience.

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Lithium-ion polymer batteries are widely used in everyday products such as mobile batteries and electronic devices. This document presents a case study of analyzing a laminated lithium-ion polymer battery using X-ray CT. By using X-ray CT, it is possible to observe the internal structure of a 20mm x 40mm battery without destruction and to check for the presence and location of foreign objects or voids measuring a few micrometers. For more details, please download the document or contact us.

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Carbon nanotubes are lightweight nanomaterials with high strength and flexibility, and their excellent properties are expected to lead to applications in various fields. On the other hand, changes in physical properties associated with shape changes are also known, and evaluations of deformation and strain in response to external forces are required. This document introduces a case study of bending deformation simulations of single-walled carbon nanotubes using molecular dynamics calculations. By conducting simulations, it is possible to observe shape changes at the atomic level, which are difficult to evaluate from actual measurements, and to calculate strain energy.

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• others
• Secondary Cells/Batteries

This introduces the evaluation of surface shape using a laser microscope.

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• Surface treatment contract service

Glucosylceramide (hereinafter referred to as GluCer) is a functional ingredient involved in skin moisture retention. Various types of GluCer with different molecular structures are found in natural plants, showing differences in their main components. This document presents a case study analyzing the extracts of fruits (banana, grape, kiwi, strawberry) and investigating the differences in the GluCer content of each fruit. For more details, please download the document or contact us.

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Residual stress measurement is one of the important methods to investigate whether a component can withstand various stress conditions. In XRD (X-ray diffraction), it is possible to determine residual stress by measuring the lattice spacing. This document introduces a case where a sample of aluminum plates with V-shaped processing on both sides was created for tensile testing, and a comparison of residual stress before and after applying tensile load using a tensile testing device, as well as the distribution of residual stress in the sample after application, was confirmed. The residual stress values were determined using the sin²ψ method. For more details, please download the document or contact us.

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Ginsenoside is a saponin unique to Korean ginseng. It has a structure where sugars are bound to a basic skeleton of sapogenin, and approximately 40 related compounds have been discovered to date. They are mainly classified into diol types, which have central nervous system inhibitory effects, and triol types, which have central nervous system excitatory effects, and it is said that the balance between these is important. This document introduces a case of simultaneous analysis of 26 types of ginsenosides contained in Korean ginseng using LC/MS/MS. Measurement method: LC/MS Product field: Food Analysis purpose: Composition evaluation and identification For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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Gallium nitride (GaN), a wide bandgap semiconductor, is primarily used in the field of power devices, and in recent years, there has been an increasing demand for applications such as rapid chargers and 5G communication base stations. In the development of high-reliability GaN, it is important to understand the reduction of defects in the crystal and the impact of these defects on electrical and optical properties. This document presents a case study analyzing the defect levels formed by nitrogen vacancies (VN) in GaN using first-principles calculations. This analysis is applicable not only to vacancies but also to various point defects in crystalline materials, such as element substitutions. For more details, please download the document or contact us.

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To understand the outbreak of infectious diseases and to prevent the spread of infections, it is important to decode the genomic information of viruses and other pathogens. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) can read large amounts of DNA fragments of several hundred bases, making it widely used for decoding biological genomes. By obtaining the genome sequence of the novel coronavirus using NGS, it becomes possible to analyze mutation sites and conduct comparisons between samples. For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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In HAXPES, it is possible to obtain information from deep positions (up to about 50 nm) from the sample surface. Furthermore, by using a two-dimensional detector for angle-resolved measurements, data obtained at a wide range of photoelectron emission angles can be divided into information corresponding to different angles, that is, varying detection depths. This allows for a comparison of depth-resolved bonding states to greater depths than XPS in a non-destructive manner. It is effective for evaluating materials where state changes extend not only to the surface but also into the bulk.

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Understanding the degradation mechanism of liquid crystal display panels is an essential theme for extending the lifespan of the panels. Among the degradation symptoms, a decrease in brightness can be attributed to various factors, including liquid crystals, alignment films, sealing materials, and TFTs. A comprehensive analysis will be conducted, incorporating surface, structure, composition, and computational science. By capturing the slight differences between good and defective products and conducting a comprehensive evaluation, we can elucidate the degradation mechanism of liquid crystal displays.

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From the analysis of the Cu2p3/2 spectrum and Cu Auger spectrum, it is possible to evaluate the bonding state, quantitative assessment, and film thickness of the Cu surface. Major application examples include the evaluation of CMP processing and cleaning of Cu wiring, as well as the investigation of rust and discoloration of Cu electrodes. We will summarize the surface states of Cu treated with various processes and the thickness of the oxide film. (Measurements can be conducted immediately after treatment in a clean room environment.)

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Two-component epoxy resin cures by mixing the base agent and the hardener. Unlike one-component systems, it has the advantage of curing without the need for heating, making it widely used as adhesives, paints, and resins. In its qualitative analysis, the cured resin, which is insoluble in solvents, can primarily be evaluated for the base agent using thermal decomposition GC/MS. On the other hand, for the evaluation of the hardener, it may be necessary to measure it in its pre-cured state depending on the type. This document presents a case where a polymercaptan hardener was measured in its pre-cured solution state, and structural estimation was conducted using a combination of ionization methods (EI and FI methods).

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Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) analysis is a method used for structural analysis of organic compounds. NMR spectra are influenced by the spins of the atomic nuclei that make up the compound, and this influence is represented by the spin coupling constant. By evaluating this spin coupling constant, it becomes possible to identify compounds with complex structures or novel compounds. This document presents a case study analyzing the stereoconformation of fluorinated compounds based on a comparison between measured values of spin coupling constants and calculated values from quantum chemical calculations. Energy calculations of the conformations also allow for a comparison of stability. Measurement methods: Computational science, AI, data analysis, NMR Product field: Pharmaceuticals Analysis purpose: Evaluation of chemical bonding states, structural evaluation For more details, please download the document or contact us.

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Organic substances at metal interfaces can cause poor adhesion and delamination. For analyzing this poor adhesion, physically peeling off the layers and conducting qualitative analysis on the peeled surfaces is effective (refer to analysis case C0198). On the other hand, there are many cases where peeling cannot be performed, and in such cases, using a sputtering ion source for depth analysis is effective. This document presents a case of qualitative analysis of organic substances at metal interfaces, either in thin films or as secondary contamination, in the depth direction. As a conclusion, the presence of organic substances was confirmed by detecting C-series ions. Additionally, it is sometimes possible to identify organic substances by comparing them with known standard samples.

• Ingredient analysis
• Other analysis and evaluation services

MST has launched a service to support the branding of food products through the analysis of functional components contained in food. We will assist with the sales application for functional display foods in three steps according to our customers' needs. Step 1: Investigation of contained components ↓ Step 2: Analysis for commercialization ↓ Step 3: Procedures for functional display certification

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MST has launched a service to support the branding of food products through the analysis of functional components contained in food. - We want to enhance the value of our food brand, not just make it delicious. - It is said to be healthy, but we are not sure what contributes to its effectiveness. - We know that other varieties contain functional components, but we have not been able to investigate our own cultivated products. In response to these customer challenges, we provide comprehensive support using instrumental analysis, from the investigation of functional components and various analyses for commercialization to the application for functional labeling and product development.

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Cream solder (solder paste) is a paste-like solder made by mixing metal powder with flux, such as rosin, and is used when mounting electronic components on a substrate. The solder flux contains various organic components ranging from low molecular to medium and high molecular weight, including solvents, activators, rosin, and thixotropic agents. Here, we present examples of a wide-ranging qualitative analysis of these components using GC/MS and LC/MS.

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Factors that determine texture include various elements such as hardness and adhesion. Generally, the texture of food is evaluated through stress assessment using tools like texture analyzers, but measuring in micro-regions or thin samples is challenging. AFM-MA can measure not only the shape of surface roughness but also the Young's modulus representing mechanical properties like hardness, adhesion parameters related to texture, and energy dissipation data in micro-regions. Therefore, it is effective for evaluating physical properties related to texture and similar characteristics in extremely small areas.

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As part of quality management, when you want to investigate components characteristic of the origin and variety, as well as components that cause defects between lots, comparisons between multiple samples are necessary. By statistically processing the data obtained from LC/MS measurements using multivariate analysis, it is possible to identify components that are characteristic of the samples among many components. In this case, we will introduce an example of investigating characteristic components among three apple juice products of different apple varieties using principal component analysis (PCA), which is one type of multivariate analysis.

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Liquid chromatography (LC) is a method for separating components in a liquid based on differences in the interactions between the stationary phase and the mobile phase. Liquid chromatography-Fourier transform mass spectrometry (LC-FTMS) utilizes a Fourier transform mass spectrometer to detect components separated by LC, allowing for the acquisition of precise mass information to four decimal places with high resolution. Therefore, when focusing on secondary isotope ions, it is possible to separate peaks derived from 13C and 34S, enabling more accurate composition estimation with higher resolution and precision compared to quadrupole or time-of-flight mass spectrometers. Additionally, it is possible to perform multi-stage MS/MS (MSn) using an ion trap, allowing for the acquisition of fragment ions for specific ions. Various methods can be combined for MSn fragmentation, enabling accurate qualitative analysis of unknown compounds by performing MSn in combination.

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Even when limited to organic materials, the combinations of possible compound structures are vast, and many new materials that exceed conventional properties remain in an unknown state. The exploration of new materials with effective properties from such a vast array of combinations is well-suited to approaches using machine learning. This document introduces examples of utilizing informatics from the setting of challenges to their achievement. By customizing compound datasets and the desired properties to fit the customer's challenges, it is possible to conduct compound exploration using informatics with a similar approach.

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In recent years, advancements in measurement devices have made it possible to obtain high-quality and large amounts of XPS spectral data in a short period. However, analyzing the acquired spectral data requires not only time and effort for database research and mastering analytical techniques but also often demands judgments backed by past experience, which poses a barrier to the effective utilization of the devices and data held. MST offers a one-stop service for users facing such challenges, handling everything from analysis to report creation for your XPS spectral data.

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■Morphological Observation The morphology of the tissue can be confirmed by staining frozen sections (e.g., HE staining, Nile blue staining). ■Fluorescence Microscopy Observation If the transmitted components have fluorescence, the fluorescent components can also be observed using a fluorescence microscope. ■Mass Microscopy Observation The distribution of components can be evaluated. Temporal changes can also be confirmed with sections taken at different times (TOF-SIMS). ■Quantitative Analysis Temporal changes in the amount of fluorescent components in the skin can also be confirmed (e.g., LC/MS/MS, fluorescence detectors, etc.).

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Lithium-ion secondary batteries undergo changes in the composition and crystal structure of the electrode active materials due to ion extraction and insertion during charging and discharging. As a structural evaluation of the positive electrode active material Li(NiCoMn)O2 (NCM), we assessed the particle size and orientation of primary particles using EBSD. Furthermore, we conducted high-resolution STEM observations on the primary particles whose orientations were confirmed, showcasing the atomic positions of light elements (Li, O) in ABF-STEM images and the atomic positions of transition metals (Ni, Co, Mn) in HAADF-STEM images. Measurement methods: SEM, EBSD, TEM Product field: Secondary batteries Analysis purpose: Shape evaluation, structural evaluation, product investigation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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The structure of the active material used in the positive electrode of lithium-ion secondary batteries (hereinafter referred to as LIB) affects the battery performance. By using X-ray CT methods, three-dimensional observation images of the active material can be obtained, allowing for the observation of cross-sections at any location. Furthermore, by performing image analysis on the acquired three-dimensional images, it is possible to quantify various structural features. In this case study, the positive electrode material of the LIB was observed using X-ray CT, and an evaluation of the particle volume distribution of the active material was conducted. Measurement method: X-ray CT Product field: Secondary batteries Analysis purpose: Shape evaluation, structural evaluation, product investigation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

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X-ray CT measurements allow for the non-destructive observation of the three-dimensional structure of samples. However, due to the nature of using X-ray beams, measurements of samples containing a large amount of metal may produce dark line-like artifacts known as metal artifacts, which can hinder the measurement of internal structures and image analysis. This document presents a case study on optimizing CT image reconstruction based on material information and physical models of the sample. This technology can reduce artifacts, enabling clearer evaluation of internal structures. Measurement method: X-ray CT, computational science, and data analysis Product fields: Electronic components, manufacturing equipment and parts, LSI and memory, daily goods Analysis objectives: Shape evaluation, structural evaluation 【Features】 ■ Clear observation of structures obscured by metal artifacts ■ Useful for CT observation of both resin and metal For more details, please download the document or contact us.

• Other image-related equipment
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The first Kumamoto sales office in the Kyushu region has opened. Based in the Kumamoto sales office, we aim to further enhance our services for customers in the Kyushu area. Meetings can be held by visiting your company, and consultations on analysis can also be conducted at the sales office. We will achieve satisfactory quality and delivery times through close collaboration with our Tokyo headquarters (laboratory). Please look forward to it. Opening date: April 15, 2022 (Friday) Address: 161-1 Muro, Otsu Town, Kikuchi District, Kumamoto Prefecture, Station M 102 *Please send samples to the headquarters located in Setagaya, Tokyo. Headquarters address: 1-18-6 Kitami, Setagaya, Tokyo Phone number: 090-7017-3882 (Contact: Takeda)

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One of the causes of capacity degradation at the negative electrode of lithium-ion secondary batteries is the formation of a film called SEI (Solid Electrolyte Interphase), which is created by interfacial reactions between the active material and the electrolyte, resulting in various lithium salt compounds complexing on the surface of the active material. To improve battery performance, control over the composition, thickness, and chemical bonding state of the SEI film is required. This document presents examples of evaluations of the SEI film formed on the surface of carbon-based negative electrode active materials for automotive batteries using SEM, TEM, TEM-EELS, TOF-SIMS, and XPS. *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.*

• Secondary Cells/Batteries
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In the charging and discharging process of lithium-ion secondary batteries, various phenomena occur near the interface with the electrolyte and the anode, including the formation of solvation, desolvation, the formation of electric double layers, and the de-insertion and insertion of Li ions. This document introduces a case where the ESM-RISM method, which combines the Effective Shielding Medium Method and the Reference Interaction Site Model, was used to evaluate the microscopic distribution of electrolyte components through simulation. This method is expected to be applicable not only to secondary batteries but also to a wide range of fields, including fuel cells, various catalytic reactions, and the corrosion and protection of metal surfaces. 【Contents】 ■ Overview ■ Data - Schematic diagram of the anode (graphite) - electrolyte interface - Solvation structure in the electrolyte - Electric double layer near the anode - electrolyte interface *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

• Lithium-ion battery

We would like to introduce a case study of 3D observation of cosmetics using X-ray CT and cryo-SEM, analyzed by the foundation. Liquid foundation applied to a plastic substrate was observed using X-ray CT and cryo-SEM, visualizing the dispersion state within the sample. X-ray CT allows for the confirmation of macroscopic morphology in a non-destructive and non-contact manner, while cryo-SEM enables the observation of even more microscopic structures. 【Features】 ■ The internal structure of the liquid foundation film can be evaluated through macroscopic morphological observation. ■ Detailed structural observation using an electron microscope allows for the confirmation of the shapes of emulsified particles and inorganic powders. *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

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TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy) is a method that involves irradiating a thin sample with electrons, imaging the electrons that have passed through or scattered from the sample, and observing it at high magnification. At MST, we are offering "Basics of TEM," which includes fundamental knowledge such as the characteristics of TEM and sample preparation methods, and "Applications and Examples of TEM," which features representative analysis cases and examples of combined analysis with other methods! This material is presented in an easy-to-understand manner using photographs and diagrams. [Contents (partial)] <Basics of TEM> 　■What can be understood with TEM and STEM ■Characteristics of TEM and STEM 　■Sample preparation methods ■Factors affecting contrast 　■Differentiation between TEM and STEM ■Ultra-high resolution HAADF observation <Applications and Examples of TEM> 　■Analysis examples 　　・TEM analysis under controlled atmosphere and cooling 　　・Evaluation of contact electrodes in SiC power MOSFETs 　　・Structural evaluation of fine transistors *If you would like a booklet, please check the box for "Request for catalog" in the "Contact Us" section to apply. (The downloadable PDF material consists of the first few pages.)

• Other microscopes

- Qualitative information on the magnetic properties of the sample can be obtained. - Imaging of attraction and repulsion due to leakage magnetic fields is possible. - A signal of magnetic force proportional to the magnitude of the gradient of the leakage magnetic field can be obtained, but quantitative evaluation is not possible. - AFM images can also be obtained simultaneously.

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MST provides contract analysis services for non-destructive testing. We are currently offering a free booklet that includes actual analysis case studies and basic explanations of analysis methods to anyone who requests it. 【Contents (partial)】 ■ Introduction to non-destructive analysis methods using X-rays and ultrasound - Ultrasonic microscopy - X-ray CT method - In situ X-ray CT measurement ■ Analysis case studies - Fiber orientation analysis inside carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) - Porosity evaluation inside polyurethane foam - Tensile test CT measurement of foam rubber - Composite analysis of specific areas within electronic devices - Condition evaluation inside transistors, etc. *If you would like the booklet, please check the "Request for catalog" box in the "Contact Us" section to apply. (The downloadable PDF material will only include the table of contents.)

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• Other contract services

The siloxane that is emitted as outgassing from silicone products is a component that is volatile and tends to adhere to substrates. It is known that when siloxane adheres, it can cause adverse effects such as fogging of optical system lenses, delamination or poor adhesion of films, and contact failures in relay circuits, making it important to investigate the amount of siloxane outgassing. This document presents a case study on the amount of cyclic dimethylsiloxane generated when heating silicone tubes at 200°C.

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The total organic carbon analyzer (TOC analyzer) can quantitatively separate and measure total carbon (TC: Total Carbon) and inorganic carbon (IC: Inorganic Carbon) in a sample. The sample can be measured in its solid state without being dissolved in a solution. This document presents examples of TOC, TC, and IC evaluations in commercially available expanders and salts.

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