#Japan #Tokyo #NOK Corporation #Polymer Technology #Low Friction

NOK's Revolutionary Polymer Brush Technology: A Game-Changer in Sealing Solutions

NOK Corporation, headquartered in the Minato ward of Tokyo, has made waves in the polymer science community with their groundbreaking research focused on the "Thick Polymer Brush" technology. This innovative approach has been recognized with the prestigious 2025 Polymer Society Technology Award, a recognition given annually to individuals and groups for significant achievements in polymer technology. The award highlights NOK's commitment to excellence in research and development, especially in providing cutting-edge sealing solutions for a variety of industries.

The thick polymer brush is a remarkable surface treatment technology that forms a high-density and uniform film at the molecular level. This unique characteristic substantially reduces friction, thus enhancing the performance and durability of sealing devices. In addition to reducing friction, this technology promises other advantageous features, such as improved resistance to dirt and increased durability, making it a valuable asset for engineers looking to innovate in the field of product design.

NOK's diverse offerings include sealing products catered to the automotive industry and general industrial machinery, signifying their broad impact across various sectors. The company continually prioritizes R&D efforts to improve product performance. As part of their initiative to bring the thick polymer brush technology into practical use, NOK is collaborating with the Kyoto University Institute of Chemical Research in an industry-academia consortium aimed at social implementation.

The Polymer Society Technology Award is awarded by the Japan Polymer Society, which boasts around 8,000 members dedicated to advancing research and交流 in polymer science and technology. Each year, the society selects a maximum of two deserving candidates whose work demonstrates unique and exceptional results in the field of polymers, based on registered patents and academic presentations.

The recipient of this year's award, Katsuya Aoki, is part of NOK's R&D technical department within the Materials Research division. His research, titled "Low Friction Technology for Sealing Devices Using Thick Polymer Brushes," exemplifies the innovative spirit that the award seeks to recognize.

NOK Corporation's mission revolves around the concept of "Essential Core Manufacturing," aiming to be the foundation of a safe and comfortable society. With approximately 38,000 employees spread across 15 countries and regions, the company continues to back its development through rigorous fundamental research. Whether in mobility, consumer electronics like PCs and smartphones, office automation, healthcare devices, industrial robots, or even satellites, NOK’s technological expertise supports a myriad of industries.

For more details about their innovative thick polymer brush technology and the mechanics behind it, NOK’s corporate website features a dedicated technology column that elaborates on its potential applications and benefits.

For inquiries related to this release, please contact:
NOK Corporation
CEO Office Corporate Affairs
Corporate Communications Department
Tel: 03-5405-6372
Email: [email protected]