## Surface treatment, Film formation

## Manufacturing Technology

# Commercialization of “IONiZE” - a Negative Ion Clothing Storage Box -

Keyword: Interdisciplinary Studies, Mothproofing, Tourmaline, Commercialization Strategies

Organizations Involved

○ Tadaaki Tsusumi, Associate Professor, Faculty of Symbiotic Systems Science, Fukushima University.

☐ Associate Professors Hideki Okumoto, Masanao Kawakami, Hideo Misaki, Tatsuya Uenoyama, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration Fukushima University.

☐ Mr. Ryouichi Sato, President and Representative Director of Fukunaga Ltd., Co.

Dr.Tsusumi

Mr. Sato

## 【Abstract】

Technological consultations were held on the development and commercialization of a box coated with ink containing tourmaline as part of a new corrugated cardboard manufacturing company business. Based on observations of insect development and behavior, the box coated with ink containing tourmaline proved effective in the protection of clothes against pests. A plan to commercialize the product was produced, based on the management group's project. The cardboard design is the result of questionnaire analyses.

## [Summary of the technology transfer]

## Technological Impact

Experiments with Attagenus unicolor and Tineola bisselliella larvae reared within this box demonstrated that tourmaline was effective in protecting clothes against pests. The effectiveness of tourmaline as a functional material was biologically tested: insects exposed to the tourmaline exhibited significantly slower growth.

## ●Special Features of the Collaboration

Technological consultations that instigated the joint venture were held as a result of efforts made by the Industry-University-Government Coordinator, under the auspices of Fukushima City's Industrial Cooperation Plaza. At present, Fukushima City is looking into the needs of regional companies by introducing them to regional universities and promoting cooperation between industry, universities, and government. The research described here was very much a result of such cooperation, and we appreciate those who made special effort at these three levels.

## Project Background

## ● Social Impact

A company that noticed the mothproof effect of tourmaline held consultations with a municipal coordinator. Fukushima University was asked to conduct necessary experiments and manage the product’s commercialization.

## Funding History

## I ntellectual property protection

1. Fiscal Year 2004: Fukushima City helps promote University-Industry cooperation.

2. Fiscal Year 2004-05: Faculty of Symbiotic Systems Science professors engage in cooperative research with Fukunaga Co., Ltd.

“IONiZE” Trademark Registry

No. 459824

This cooperative research demonstrates the University’s fostering of original ideas. For the municipality (Government), it was the first case of supporting product manufacturing, thereby allowing it to initiate regional development. In this way, industry and Government are willing to further Industry-University-Government Cooperation.

Growth retardation of A. Unicolor Larvae

Monthly changes in the weight of Attagenus unicolor larvae

A. unicolor larvae reared within the tourmaline-coated box grew at significantly slower rates compared to those in the control samples.

The mothproof clothing case "IONiZE"

## Turning point in the Project

The building of a regionally-based, coordinated network brought an enhanced understanding of regional needs.

The material’s functionality was not only brought to light, but thoroughly verified through interdisciplinary experimentation.