Professor Eiji Yamasue and his colleagues’ research results published in ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering

On December 11, 2025, research results by Professor Eiji Yamasue (RARA Fellow) and his colleagues were published in ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering. These research results revolutionized the conventional high-temperature carbon reduction method used in white phosphorus production. By utilizing silicon sludge (fine powdered silicon waste) generated during semiconductor manufacturing as a reductant, the process achieved a 91.4% volatilization rate at 1273 K (approximately 1000°C). In other words, the utilization of silicon sludge has succeeded in reducing the temperature by approximately 400°C compared to conventional methods and eliminating byproducts. The research demonstrates a potential for substantially reducing energy consumption while selectively producing high-purity white phosphorus. These technologies contribute to advancing the circular economy through industrial waste resource utilization, achieving zero CO₂ emissions, and stabilizing phosphorus supply. They have been shown to hold social significance, directly impacting the semiconductor industry and economic security.

Paper title: A Promising Silicothermic Route for Low-Temperature, Byproduct-Free Production of White Phosphorus Using Silicon Waste
Authors: Shunsuke Kashiwakura, Ami Okamoto, Shoki Kosai, Masaru Takizawa, Eiji Yamasue
Publication journal: ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering
Publication date: December 11, 2025
URL: https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.5c07921

Additionally, these research results were published in the Nikkei newspaper on January 19, 2026, which can be accessed at the URL below.
Nikkei Newspaper: https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOSG094US0Z00C26A1000000/ (in Japanese only)