Okayama University's New Helium Recycling Network Initiative Begins with Experimental Gas Recovery

Okayama University's Helium Recycling Initiative: HeReNet

Okayama University (Okayama Prefecture, Japan), under the leadership of President Yasuto Nasu, has embarked on a significant project to establish the Chugoku-Shikoku and Harima Helium Recycling Network (popularly known as HeReNet). This initiative began with gas recovery experiments on July 10, and August 28, 2025, aiming to enhance the recycling and stable supply of liquid helium, a vital resource for research activities.

Liquid helium, essential for various scientific experiments, is entirely dependent on imports in Japan. Over recent years, the continuous rise in global prices, driven by the pandemic and geopolitical crises, has made it increasingly challenging for universities and research institutions to obtain, thus affecting research operations.

To combat this issue, Okayama University possesses its own helium liquefaction facility allowing them to efficiently manage helium resources. The university provides liquid helium to internal users while implementing a system to recover and re-liquefy the resulting helium gas. By extending its efforts through the HeReNet initiative, the university aims to collaborate with other educational institutions and organizations to develop a comprehensive helium recycling network across the region.

During the first experimental phase (Phase 0, Session 1) on July 10, participants, including technical staff, URA, academic coordinators, administrative personnel, researchers, and industry representatives, conducted successful gas recovery from gas cylinders at the Tsushima Campus under controlled conditions. The positive results confirmed that gas could be effectively retrieved from the cylinders for further use.

On August 28, the second phase of the experiments (Phase 0, Session 2) involved connecting gas bags filled with helium gas to a compressor and refilling gas cylinders, demonstrating another successful step in establishing a seamless helium recycling process.

Given the age of the university's helium liquefaction equipment, which is over 15 years old, there are plans funded by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology to modernize it by the end of fiscal year 2026. This upgrade will help sustain the helium recycling initiative, ensuring an uninterrupted supply for research activities.

Promoted as part of the MEXT’s Regional Core and Distinctive Research University Strengthening Program (J-PEAKS), Okayama University aims to position itself as a hub for knowledge and technology innovation, facilitating collaborative research and enhancing its research capabilities.

The helium liquefaction system represents a significant investment in mid-scale research equipment requiring substantial operational costs and advanced technical expertise. Through the HeReNet project, Okayama University seeks to extend its helium supply beyond campus operations, reaching nearby colleges, research institutions, and enterprises. This broader supply framework is expected to boost research and development efforts utilizing liquid helium, thereby enhancing Japan's overall research proficiency and fostering an environment conducive to innovation.

The university remains committed to collaborating with participating organizations, striving to implement practical solutions that mitigate helium scarcity and support scientific endeavors. Anticipation grows for the continued developments stemming from the HeReNet initiative, which promises to significantly affect the landscape of scientific research within Japan.

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Stay tuned for updates on the progress of the Helium Recycling Network as Okayama University amplifies its efforts in addressing the research community's needs.