JAMSTEC Receives the nano tech 2026 Green Transformation Award — Environmental Contribution of Pressure-Responsive Plastics (Baroplastics) Recognized —
A research group led by Dr. Shigeru Deguchi, Director of the Research Center for Bioscience and Nanoscience, has received the nano tech 2026 Green Transformation Award for its research on pressure-responsive plastics (baroplastics) presented at nano tech 2026, the 25th International Nanotechnology Exhibition & Conference.
According to the selection committee, this award recognizes the development of pressure-meltable plastics inspired by deep-sea environments, which can be pressure-molded at room temperature and decomposed on demand, thereby contributing to global environmental conservation. The ability to shape and process plastics without heating is expected to significantly reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, highlighting the strong future potential of this technology in the field of Green Transformation.
nano tech 2026 is one of the world’s largest nanotechnology exhibitions, attracting approximately 45,000 visitors and 385 exhibitors from industry and academia over three days.
This research is conducted under the concept of “Deep-Sea-Inspired Chemistry,” which draws inspiration from high-pressure deep-sea environments. The work is supported by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) through the Strategic Basic Research Program (CREST) project entitled “Baropolyesters: Precision Degradation Control by Pressure” (Grant No.: JPMJCR21L4). JAMSTEC will continue to promote research and development inspired by extreme deep-sea environments, contributing to sustainable materials and process design.
Shigeru Deguchi (right), Director of the Research Center for Bioscience and Nanoscience, at the award ceremony.
The JAMSTEC exhibition booth at nano tech 2026.