Method of manufacturing electron-generating member

Abstract

To provide a method of manufacturing an electron-generating material capable of reducing a friction coefficient, and a method of manufacturing an electron-generating member.SOLUTION: A method of manufacturing an electron-generating member for reducing a friction coefficient is provided, the method comprising: an electron-generating material forming step of forming a fluidic electron-generating material by mixing and agitating powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, powder of an electron-generating substance that generates electrons when subjected to alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, and a fluid binder; and an electron-generating material filling step of filling the inside of a cylindrical magnet having an N-pole at one end and an S-pole at the other end with the fluidic electro-generating material.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for producing an electron generating member. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, attempts have been made in various fields of machinery to reduce frictional resistance for the purposes of improving fuel economy, preventing noise, improving workability, etc. For example, the use of lubricating oils or bearings has been used to reduce frictional resistance in rotating members, etc., thereby improving fuel economy and quietness. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Conventionally known means for reducing frictional resistance have been shown to have a certain degree of excellent effect, but it is believed that there is a limit to how far these conventional means can achieve a further reduction in frictional resistance, and therefore the development of new means for reducing frictional resistance is desired.

[0004] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing an electron generating member that can reduce the coefficient of friction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The above-mentioned object of the present invention is achieved by a manufacturing method for an electron-generating member capable of reducing the coefficient of friction, which includes an electron-generating material forming step of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, and a fluid binder to form a fluid electron-generating material, and an electron-generating material filling step of filling the fluid electron-generating material inside a cylindrical magnet body having a north pole at one end and a south pole at the other end.

[0006] Furthermore, the above-mentioned object of the present invention is achieved by a method for manufacturing an electron-generating member capable of reducing the coefficient of friction, which includes an electron-generating material forming step of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, and a dry fluid binder to form a fluid electron-generating material, a form putting step of putting the fluid electron-generating material into a form, a drying step of drying the electron-generating material put into the form, and a magnet body setting step of placing a magnet body on the electron-generating material after drying.

[0007] Furthermore, the above-mentioned object of the present invention is achieved by a method for manufacturing an electron-generating member capable of reducing the coefficient of friction, which includes an electron-generating material forming step of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, a powder of ferrite magnet raw material, and a dry fluid binder to form an electron-generating material having fluidity, a form-filling step of pouring the fluid electron-generating material into a form, a drying step of drying the electron-generating material poured into the form, and a magnetizing step of magnetizing the electron-generating material after drying.

[0008] Furthermore, the above-mentioned object of the present invention is achieved by a method for manufacturing an electron-generating member capable of reducing the coefficient of friction, which includes an electron-generating material forming step of mixing a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance and a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral to form an electron-generating material, a form putting step of putting the electron-generating material into a form, a compression molding step of compressing and molding the electron-generating material put into the form, and a magnet body setting step of placing a magnet body on the compression-molded electron-generating material.

[0009] In the method for manufacturing the electron generating member, the powder of the electron generating material preferably includes a powder of titanium dioxide and at least one powder selected from the group consisting of lanthanum hexaboride, black silica, metallic magnesium, tungsten, metallic silicon, molybdenum disulfide, and metallic germanium.

[0010] Preferably, the powder of the natural mineral has an average particle size of 200 μm or less, and the powder of the electron-generating material has an average particle size of 200 μm or less.

[0011] The fluid binder preferably has electrical conductivity.

[0012] The fluid binder preferably contains at least one powder selected from the group consisting of zinc, molybdenum disulfide, and copper.

[0013] The fluid binder is preferably a room temperature plating solution containing zinc. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a method for manufacturing an electron generating member that can reduce the coefficient of friction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a first electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of an electron generating member manufactured by a first method for manufacturing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a schematic plan view of the configuration as seen from the direction of the arrow A in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining magnetic field lines of a cylindrical magnet body. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a modified example of the first method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 6]FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a second method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view for explaining a second method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view for explaining a second method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view for explaining a second method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view for explaining a second method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a third method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a fourth method for producing an electron generating member according to the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the configuration of a sample used in a verification test. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the configuration of a sample used in a verification test. [Figure 15] This is an image of the verification test result document. [Figure 16] This is an image of the verification test result document. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, a first manufacturing method of an electron generating member according to the present invention will be described. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within the scope of the object of the present invention. This second manufacturing method of an electron generating member is a manufacturing method of an electron generating member that can effectively propagate generated electrons to an electron supply target by utilizing magnetic field lines, and includes an electron generating material forming step S11 and an electron generating material filling step S12, as shown in the block diagram of FIG.

[0017] The electron-generating material formation step S11 is a process of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, and a fluid binder to form a fluid electron-generating material.

[0018] Natural minerals containing radioactive substances are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include radium ore, beitouite, Bad Gastein ore, monazite, phosphate rock, columbite, tantalite, strobelite, pyrochlore, bastnaesite, cerium concentrate, zircon, gumstone, davidite, brannerite, uraninite (pitchblende), ningyoite, uraninite, carnotite, tsjamunite, metachamunite, chayamunite, schrekingelite, zirkelite, xenotime, trogomite, oerite, bakhanite, kaltenite, tungstite, botrylite, brockite, uranophene, gentianite, coffinite, uranium thorite, uranium botrylite, thorite, and fransevilleite.

[0019] Furthermore, as an electron generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from natural minerals, for example, titanium dioxide (TiO2) powder can be used.

[0020] Furthermore, the lower limit of the natural ore content is not particularly limited, as long as it can generate a sufficient amount of alpha rays to generate electrons. The lower limit of the natural ore content is preferably 0.01 parts by mass or more, more preferably 0.1 parts by mass or more, and particularly preferably 1 part by mass or more, per 100 parts by mass of the electron-generating material. The upper limit of the natural ore content is not particularly limited, as long as it can reduce the radiation dose generated to 0.2 μSv / h or less. The upper limit of the natural ore content is preferably 90 parts by mass or less, more preferably 85 parts by mass or less, and particularly preferably 80 parts by mass or less, per 100 parts by mass of the electron-generating material.

[0021] The content of the electron generating material that generates electrons in response to alpha rays emitted from natural minerals is preferably set to a content that maximizes the ionization effect of alpha rays. In particular, the content of titanium dioxide contained in the electron generating material of the present invention is preferably set to, for example, 1 part by mass or more and 15 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The electron generating material of the present invention may also contain, in addition to titanium dioxide powder, at least one powder selected from lanthanum hexaboride (LaB6), black silica, tungsten, metallic silicon, molybdenum disulfide, metallic germanium, gallium nitride (GaN), tourmaline, boron, and boron compounds. The content of lanthanum hexaboride is preferably set to 0.5 parts by mass or more and 5 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The content of black silica is preferably set to 1 part by mass or more and 5 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The tungsten content is preferably set to 0.1 parts by mass or more and 0.5 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the metallic silicon content is preferably set to 2 parts by mass or more and 5 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The molybdenum disulfide content is preferably set to 2 parts by mass or more and 5 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the metallic germanium content is preferably set to 2 parts by mass or more and 5 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The gallium nitride (GaN) content is preferably set to 0.8 parts by mass or more and 2 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the tourmaline content is preferably set to 2 parts by mass or more and 10 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The content of boron is preferably set to 0.8 parts by mass or more and 2 parts by mass or less relative to 100 parts by mass of the electron-generating material, and the content of the boron compound is preferably set to 0.8 parts by mass or more and 2 parts by mass or less relative to 100 parts by mass of the electron-generating material. An example of the boron compound is disodium octaborate tetrahydrate.

[0022] Furthermore, the smaller the average particle size of the powder of natural minerals used, the greater the effect. For example, it is preferably set to 200 μm or less, more preferably to 100 μm or less, and even more preferably to 10 μm or less. Similarly, the smaller the average particle size of the powder of electron-generating material, the greater the effect. For example, it is preferably set to 200 μm or less, more preferably to 100 μm or less, and even more preferably to 10 μm or less.

[0023] Furthermore, the electron generating material may be configured to contain metallic magnesium powder in addition to titanium dioxide powder. The average particle diameter of the metallic magnesium powder is preferably set to 0.3 mm to 1.5 mm, and more preferably set to 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm. The content of the metallic magnesium powder is preferably set to 1 part by mass to 35 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and particularly preferably set to 5 parts by mass to 30 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. As described above, by setting the average particle diameter of the metallic magnesium powder to be significantly larger than the average particle diameter of the electron generating material powder, a significantly larger amount of natural mineral powder comes into contact with each magnesium metal powder, enabling the emission of even greater amounts of electrons.

[0024] The electron generating material may be configured to contain copper powder in addition to titanium dioxide powder. The copper powder is preferably formed in a flake shape. The average particle size of the copper powder is preferably 50 μm or less, more preferably 20 μm or less. Since copper powder has high conductivity, it can be efficiently propagated to the outside. The content of the copper powder is preferably set to 1 part by mass or more and 4 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material.

[0025] The electron generating material may also include, in addition to titanium dioxide powder, powder of copper powder with silver plating on its surface (silver-plated copper powder). The silver-plated copper powder is preferably formed in a flake shape. The average particle diameter of the silver-plated copper powder is preferably 50 μm or less, more preferably 20 μm or less. The silver-plated copper powder also emits electrons due to the bonding of dissimilar metals, silver and copper, further increasing the amount of emitted electrons. Furthermore, the silver-plated copper powder has excellent conductivity, allowing electrons generated inside the electron generating material 52 to be efficiently propagated to the outside. The content of the silver-plated copper powder is preferably set to 5 to 20 parts by mass, and more preferably 8 to 14 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material.

[0026] The electron generating material may be configured to contain silver powder in addition to titanium dioxide powder. The silver powder is preferably formed in a flake shape. The average particle size of the silver powder is preferably 50 μm or less, and more preferably 20 μm or less. Since silver powder has excellent conductivity, it is possible to efficiently propagate electrons generated inside the electron generating material 52 to the outside. The content of the silver powder is preferably set to 8 parts by mass or more and 12 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material.

[0027] The electron generating material according to the present invention may further comprise a powder of a conductive carbon material such as graphite. The average particle size of the carbon material powder is preferably 10 μm or less, more preferably 1 μm or less. The content of the carbon material powder is preferably set to 1 part by mass or more and 5 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. By further comprising such a powder of a conductive carbon material, the conductivity is further improved, allowing electrons to be efficiently propagated to the outside.

[0028] The fluid binder is a dry binder that dries naturally, and various binders can be used. For example, various binders such as acrylic resin binders, polycarbonate resin binders, and polyester resin binders can be used. By mixing the fluid binder to form the electron-generating material, the natural mineral powder and the electron-generating substance powder contained in the electron-generating material can be maintained in a uniformly dispersed state. When a dry fluid binder is used, for example, the fluid electron-generating material is poured into a predetermined mold and then dried, which volatilizes the solvent contained in the fluid binder. As a result, the electron-generating material can be molded and solidified into a desired shape. Furthermore, an electron-emitting electron-generating member can be formed without using a mold by, for example, applying the fluid electron-generating material to a predetermined thickness on the upper surface of an electrode plate or an electron supply target and drying it.

[0029] Furthermore, it is more preferable to use a conductive fluid binder as the dry fluid binder. For example, a solvent that volatilizes by natural drying can be used as the fluid binder, and a powder of a metal material can be mixed with this solvent. The average particle size of the powder of the metal material contained in the fluid binder is preferably 200 μm or less.

[0030] The content of the fluid binder is preferably, for example, 50 parts by mass or more and 80 parts by mass or less relative to 100 parts by mass of the electron-generating material. When a dry fluid binder is used, the content is not particularly limited to the above-mentioned numerical range, as long as it can maintain the shape when the solvent is evaporated and the material is dried, for example, the shape in a dry state when a fluid electron-generating material is applied and dried, or the shape when the fluid electron-generating material is poured into a predetermined mold and then dried to form the electron-generating material into a desired shape.

[0031] Furthermore, with regard to the fluid binder, the higher the concentration of the metal material powder, the better. When a dry fluid binder is used, the content may be such that the shape obtained when the solvent evaporates and the binder is dried, for example, the shape obtained when a fluid electron-generating material is applied and dried, or the shape obtained when the fluid electron-generating material is poured into a predetermined mold and then dried to form the desired shape, can be maintained.

[0032] Here, the conductive metal material contained in the flowable binder is preferably at least one selected from zinc, molybdenum disulfide, and copper. A suitable example of a flowable binder containing zinc powder is a cold-temperature plating paint containing zinc. This cold-temperature plating paint contains a solvent that volatilizes at room temperature, solidifying the zinc after volatilization, making it suitable for molding an electron-generating material into a desired shape and firmly solidifying it. Furthermore, zinc is also a substance that generates electrons in response to alpha rays emitted by natural minerals. Therefore, when an electron-generating material is molded and solidified, electrons are also generated from the titanium dioxide and zinc in response to alpha rays emitted by natural minerals, resulting in an increased amount of emitted electrons. Furthermore, zinc's conductivity allows electrons generated inside the electron-generating material to be efficiently propagated to the outside of the electron-generating material.

[0033] Furthermore, as the fluid binder, in addition to a dry binder that dries naturally, a non-drying fluid binder that does not dry naturally can also be used. Various non-drying oils such as non-drying grease can be used as such a fluid binder. By mixing a fluid binder to form the electron-generating material, the powder of the natural ore and the powder of the electron-generating substance contained in the electron-generating material can be maintained in a uniformly dispersed state. When a non-drying fluid binder is used, it is possible to configure the electron-generating material to be in a state where it does not dry naturally and always retains fluidity.

[0034] It is more preferable to use a conductive fluid binder as the non-drying fluid binder. For example, such a fluid binder can be prepared by mixing a powder of a metal material with a non-drying oil such as non-drying grease as a solvent. The average particle size of the powder of the metal material contained in the fluid binder is preferably 200 μm or less.

[0035] Here, the metal material contained in the non-drying flowable binder is preferably at least one selected from zinc, molybdenum disulfide, and copper, as in the dry flowable binder described above. Furthermore, a suitable example of a flowable binder containing molybdenum disulfide powder is molybdenum disulfide grease. This molybdenum disulfide grease is a mixture of non-drying grease and molybdenum disulfide powder, so the electron generating material maintains its fluidity without natural drying. Copper grease, which is a mixture of non-drying grease and copper powder, can also be used.

[0036] The content of the fluid binder is preferably, for example, 50 parts by mass or more and 80 parts by mass or less relative to 100 parts by mass of the electron-generating material. Regarding the fluid binder, the higher the concentration of the metal material powder, the better. When a non-drying fluid binder is used, the content is not particularly limited as long as the electron-generating material has fluidity.

[0037] The electron-generating material filling step S12 is a process of filling a cylindrical magnet body with a flowable electron-generating material, one end of which is a north pole and the other end is a south pole, and upon completion of this process, an electron-generating member is completed. The external shape of the magnet body is not particularly limited as long as it is cylindrical, and various shapes such as a cylindrical shape or a rectangular tube can be used.

[0038] Here, it is more preferable to use a conductive fluid binder as the fluid binder used in the electron-generating material forming step S11. The fluid binder may be either dry or non-drying. When a dry fluid binder is used, it is preferable to use a room-temperature plating solution containing zinc. When a dry fluid binder is used, it is preferable to provide a drying step, which is a step of drying the electron-generating material introduced into the cylindrical magnet body, as a subsequent step to the electron-generating material filling step S12. In this drying step, the electron-generating material may be dried naturally or may be dried by heating.

[0039] According to the first method for producing an electron generating member, the electron generating member can be produced simply and easily.

[0040] By connecting an electrode portion to the electron generating member manufactured in this manner (electrode portion installation step), electrons generated by the electron generating member can be efficiently propagated to the electron supply target. The material for forming the electrode portion is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to use a material with high electrical conductivity, such as copper, silver, or gold, and it is more preferable to use copper from a cost perspective. The method for connecting the electron generating member and the electrode portion is also not particularly limited. For example, they may be connected via a conductive adhesive, or they may simply be connected by placing the electron generating member on a plate-like electrode portion and bringing them into contact. They may also be covered with a foil-like material.

[0041] Furthermore, the electrode unit is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to connect to the magnet body, but it is preferable that the electrode unit be connected to one end of the cylindrical magnet body, which is the north pole side, and in particular, as shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of Fig. 2 and the plan view of Fig. 3 seen from the direction of arrow A in Fig. 2, it is preferable to configure the electrode unit as a plate electrode 2 in which the entire end face of one end, which is the north pole side of the cylindrical magnet body 1, is connected and closes the opening on one end of the cylindrical magnet body 1, from the viewpoint of efficiently propagating electrons generated from the electron-generating material filled inside the cylindrical magnet body to the supply target. Furthermore, by forming the plate electrode 2 to have an area larger than the area enclosed by the outer circumferential outline of one end of the cylindrical magnet body, electrons can be propagated more widely and efficiently via the plate electrode 2 to the electron supply target.

[0042] In this way, an electron generating member formed by filling the inside of a cylindrical magnet body 1 with an electron generating material can efficiently propagate electrons because the direction of movement of electrons generated in the electron generating material can be controlled by the influence of the magnetic force of the magnet body 1. Specifically, since the magnetic field lines of the magnet body 1 exit from the north pole side and enter the south pole side as shown in Figure 4, when the electron generating member is placed so that the electrode 2 on the north pole side of the magnet body 1 abuts against an object to which electrons are supplied, the electrons are influenced by the magnetic field and move in a direction perpendicular to the magnetic field lines emanating from the north pole side, allowing electrons to be propagated efficiently and widely in the surface direction of the object to which electrons are supplied.

[0043] Furthermore, as shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 5, the second manufacturing method may further include an insulating member covering step of covering the side portion and the other end of the magnet body 1 with an insulating member 3. The material for forming the insulating member 3 is not particularly limited, and commonly known insulating materials can be used. The insulating member 3 may be removable, such as a rubber cap, or may be fixed to cover the surface of the magnet body 1 with an insulating resin material so that it cannot be removed. By providing such an insulating member 3, electrons generated from the electron-generating material filled inside the cylindrical magnet body 1 can be effectively prevented from being emitted outside the electron-generating member, and the generated electrons can be effectively propagated toward the target.

[0044] If necessary, the method may be configured to include a compression step in which the electron-generating material is filled into the cylindrical magnet body 1 in the electron-generating material filling step S12 and then compressed. This compression step can be performed using various conventionally known presses. Furthermore, when a compression step is included, if a dry, fluid binder is used as the electron-generating material and a drying step is provided after the electron-generating material filling step S12 to dry the electron-generating material that has been poured into the cylindrical magnet body 1, it is preferable to semi-dry the electron-generating material in this drying step so that it can be deformed during the compression process, rather than completely drying it.

[0045] Next, a second manufacturing method of the electron generating member of the present invention will be described. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within the scope of the object of the present invention. This second manufacturing method of the electron generating member is a manufacturing method of the electron generating member that can effectively propagate generated electrons to an electron supply target by utilizing magnetic field lines, and includes an electron generating material forming step S21, a mold inserting step S22, and a drying step S23, as shown in the block diagram of FIG.

[0046] The electron-generating material formation step S21 is a process of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing radioactive material, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, and a dry fluid binder to form a fluid electron-generating material. Here, it is more preferable to use a conductive fluid binder as the fluid binder used in the electron-generating material formation step S21. As the conductive dry fluid binder, it is particularly preferable to use a room-temperature plating solution containing zinc.

[0047] The mold casting step S22 is a process of casting the electron generating material having fluidity into a mold of a predetermined shape. The shape of the mold is not particularly limited, and various molds can be used.

[0048] The drying step S23 is a process of drying the electron generating material placed in the mold. In this drying step S23, the electron generating material may be dried naturally or may be dried by heating.

[0049] After the drying step S23 is completed, the dried and molded electron generating material (electron generating unit) is removed from the mold, followed by an electrode unit installation step in which electrode units are attached, or a magnet unit installation step in which a magnet unit is attached. The electrode unit installation step is performed by laminating an electrode unit-forming material, such as copper foil, on the surface of the dried electron generating material (electron generating unit). The electrode units may be independently laminated on each surface of the electron generating unit, as shown in FIG. 7(a), or may be disposed so as to cover the periphery of the electron generating unit, as shown in FIG. 7(b). Alternatively, as shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 8, the electrode units may be disposed so as to form a multilayer electron generating member in which the electron generating units and the electrode units are alternately laminated. Furthermore, when forming a multilayer electron generating member in which the electron generating units and the electrode units are alternately laminated, the electrode units and the electron generating units may be laminated in such a manner that a sheet-like electrode unit is folded between the electron generating units constituting each layer to cover each electron generating unit, as shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 9.

[0050] The magnet body installation step is, for example, a process of attaching a magnet body to the surface of the electron generator on which the electrode unit is disposed. The magnet body can be installed and fixed using, for example, a conductive adhesive or the like. Note that, for example, in the above-mentioned electrode unit installation step, when the electrode unit is disposed so as to cover the periphery of the electron generator as shown in FIG. 7(b), the magnet body installation step may be performed prior to the electrode unit installation step to stack the magnet body on the surface of the electron generator, and then the electrode unit installation step may be performed, thereby placing the magnet body between the electron generator 2 and the electrode unit 3 as shown in FIG.

[0051] If necessary, a compression molding step of compressing and molding the electron-generating material put into the mold may be provided as a subsequent step to the drying step S23. When the compression molding step is provided, it is preferable to semi-dry the electron-generating material in the mold in the drying step S13 to such an extent that the electron-generating material can be deformed during the compression process, rather than completely drying the electron-generating material in the mold.

[0052] The second manufacturing method may further include an insulating member coating step of coating the surfaces of the manufactured electron generating member other than the surface that contacts the electron supply target (for example, in FIG. 7, the surface opposite to the surface on which the magnet body is provided) with an insulating member. The material for forming the insulating member is not particularly limited, and commonly known insulating materials can be used. The insulating member may be removable, such as a rubber cap, or may be fixed by covering a predetermined surface of the electron generating member with an insulating resin material so that it cannot be removed. According to the second manufacturing method of the electron generating member, it is possible to manufacture the electron generating member in various forms in an extremely simple manner.

[0053] Next, a third manufacturing method of the electron generating member of the present invention will be described. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within the scope of the object of the present invention. Like the first manufacturing method and the like, this third manufacturing method of the electron generating member is a manufacturing method of the electron generating member that can effectively propagate generated electrons to an electron supply target by utilizing magnetic field lines, and as shown in the block diagram of FIG. 11, includes an electron generating material forming step S31, a mold inserting step S32, a drying step S33, and a magnetizing step S34.

[0054] The electron-generating material formation step S31 is a process of mixing and stirring a powder of natural mineral containing the above-mentioned radioactive substance, a powder of electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, a powder of ferrite magnet raw material, and a dry fluid binder to form an electron-generating material with fluidity.

[0055] Here, it is more preferable to use a conductive dry fluid binder as the fluid binder used in the electron-generating material formation step S31. As the conductive dry fluid binder, it is particularly preferable to use a room-temperature plating solution containing zinc.

[0056] The mold casting step S32 is a process of casting the electron generating material having fluidity into a mold of a predetermined shape. The shape of the mold is not particularly limited, and various molds can be used.

[0057] The drying step S33 is a process of drying the electron generating material placed in the mold. In this drying step S33, the electron generating material may be dried naturally or may be dried by heating.

[0058] The magnetizing step S34 is a step of magnetizing the dried electron-generating material, and the magnetizing method is not particularly limited, and any conventionally known method can be adopted. Note that it is preferable to magnetize the dried electron-generating material after removing it from the mold.

[0059] If necessary, a compression step of compressing and molding the electron-generating material placed in the mold may be included between the drying step S33 and the magnetizing step S34. This compression step can be performed using various conventionally known press devices. In addition, when the compression step is included, it is preferable to semi-dry the electron-generating material in the mold in the drying step S33 to such an extent that the electron-generating material can be deformed during the compression process, rather than completely drying the electron-generating material in the mold.

[0060] After the magnetization step S34 is completed, an electrode unit installation step is performed to install an electrode unit, thereby completing the electron generating member. The electrode unit installation step is performed by laminating an electrode unit-forming material, such as copper foil, on the surface of the magnetized electron generating material (electron generating member). The electrode units may be independently laminated on each surface of the electron generating member, or may be disposed so as to cover the periphery of the electron generating member. The electrode units may also be installed so as to form a multilayer electron generating member in which the electron generating members and the electrode units are alternately laminated. When forming a multilayer electron generating member in which the electron generating members and the electrode units are alternately laminated, the electrode units and the electron generating members may be laminated in such a manner that a sheet-like electrode unit is folded between the electron generating members constituting each layer to cover each electron generating member.

[0061] The third manufacturing method may further include an insulating member coating step of coating the surfaces of the manufactured electron generating member other than the surface that contacts the electron supply target with an insulating member. The material for forming the insulating member is not particularly limited, and any commonly known insulating material may be used. The insulating member may be removable, such as a rubber cap, or may be made non-removable by covering and fixing a predetermined surface of the electron generating member with an insulating resin material.

[0062] According to the third manufacturing method of the electron generating member, it is possible to easily manufacture electron generating members in various forms that can reduce the coefficient of friction.

[0063] Finally, a fourth manufacturing method of the electron generating member of the present invention will be described. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within the scope of the object of the present invention. As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 12, this third manufacturing method of the electron generating member includes an electron generating material forming step S41, a mold inserting step S42, and a compression molding step S43.

[0064] The electron-generating material formation step S41 is a process of mixing a powder of a natural mineral containing the above-mentioned radioactive substance and a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral to form an electron-generating material.

[0065] The mold-injecting step S42 is a step of injecting the electron-generating material mixed in the electron-generating material forming step S41 into a mold of a predetermined shape. The shape of the mold is not particularly limited, and various molds can be used, but it is preferable that the mold has a shape that allows efficient compression in the compression-forming step performed in the subsequent process.

[0066] The compression molding step S43 is a process in which the electron generating material placed in the mold is compressed, solidified, and molded into a predetermined shape. This compression molding step S43 can be performed using various conventionally known press machines.

[0067] After the compression molding step S43 is completed, the compression-molded electron generating material (electron generating unit) is removed from the mold, followed by an electrode unit installation step in which electrode units are attached, or a magnet unit installation step in which a magnet unit is attached. The electrode unit installation step is performed by laminating an electrode unit-forming material, such as copper foil, on the surface of the compression-molded electron generating material (electron generating unit). The electrode units may be independently laminated on each surface of the electron generating unit, as shown in FIG. 7(a) above, or may be disposed so as to cover the periphery of the electron generating unit, as shown in FIG. 7(b). Alternatively, as shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 8, the electrode units may be disposed so as to form a multilayer electron generating member in which the electron generating units and the electrode units are alternately laminated. Furthermore, when forming a multilayer electron generating member in which the electron generating units and the electrode units are alternately laminated, the electrode units and the electron generating units may be laminated in such a manner that a sheet-like electrode unit is folded between the electron generating units constituting each layer to cover each electron generating unit, as shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 9.

[0068] The magnet body installation step is, for example, a process of attaching a magnet body to the surface of the electron generator on which the electrode unit is disposed. The magnet body can be installed and fixed using, for example, a conductive adhesive. Note that in the above-mentioned electrode unit installation step, when the electrode unit is disposed so as to cover the periphery of the electron generator 2 as shown in FIG. 7(b), the magnet body installation step may be performed prior to the electrode unit installation step to stack the magnet body on the surface of the electron generator, and then the electrode unit installation step may be performed, thereby placing the magnet body between the electron generator 2 and the electrode unit 3 as shown in FIG.

[0069] By completing the magnet body installation step (or electrode portion installation step) in this manner, the electron generating member is completed.

[0070] Furthermore, the fourth manufacturing method may be configured to further include an insulating member coating step of coating the surfaces of the manufactured electron generating member other than the surface that contacts the electron supply target (the surface opposite to the surface on which the magnet body is provided) with an insulating member. The material for forming the insulating member 3 is not particularly limited, and commonly known insulating materials can be used. The insulating member may be removable, such as a rubber cap, or may be fixed by covering a predetermined surface of the electron generating member with an insulating resin material so that it cannot be removed.

[0071] According to the fourth manufacturing method of the electron generating member, it is possible to easily manufacture electron generating members in various forms that can reduce the coefficient of friction.

[0072] The inventors conducted verification tests to confirm the effects of the electron generating member according to the present invention, which are described below. The electron generating member samples used in the verification tests will be described. A total of nine samples were prepared. Three of the nine samples were of the same type (hereinafter referred to as samples A-1, A-2, and A-3), while the other three samples (hereinafter referred to as samples B-1, B-2, and B-3) had different configurations from samples A-1 to A-3. Furthermore, the other three samples (hereinafter referred to as samples C-1, C-2, and C-3) had different configurations from samples A-1 to A-3 and B-1 to B-3.

[0073] First, as shown in Fig. 13, Samples A-1 to A-3 have a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a thickness of 2 mm and dimensions of 25 mm x 25 mm. The electron generating members of Samples A-1 to A-3 are formed by mixing powder of radium ore (natural ore), powder of electron generating material, and a cold plating solution containing zinc (a dry, conductive, flowable binder; a cold plating paint containing 96% by weight of zinc) and thoroughly stirring the mixture. The mixture is then poured into a mold, dried, and removed from the mold. The removed electron generating material (electron generating portion 2) is then coated with copper foil with a thickness of 0.02 mm. The coated copper foil functions as an electrode portion. The content of radium ore (natural ore) was 2 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, the content of the electron generating substance was 22.3 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the content of the fluid binder was 75.7 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. A powder mixture of titanium dioxide, metallic magnesium, metallic silicon, black silica, lanthanum hexaboride, and copper was used as the electron generating material. The content of titanium dioxide powder was 8 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, the content of metallic magnesium powder was 7.3 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, the content of metallic silicon was 3 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the content of black silica was 2 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The content of lanthanum hexaboride was 0.5 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The copper powder content is 1.5 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The radium ore (natural ore) used has a maximum particle size of 13 μm or less, and the black silica has a maximum particle size of 1 μm or less. The lanthanum hexaboride used has a maximum particle size of 1 μm or less, and the copper has a maximum particle size of 43 μm or less. The average particle size of the titanium dioxide is 0.1 μm, the average particle size of the metallic magnesium is 1 mm, and the average particle size of the metallic silicon is 0.1 μm.

[0074] Next, the electron generating members (electron generating materials) of Samples B-1 to B-3 are configured as a fluid paste and are formed by thoroughly mixing and stirring powdered radium ore (natural ore), powdered electron generating material, and a fluid binder. Similar to Samples A-1 to A-3, the content of radium ore (natural ore) is 2 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, the content of electron generating material is 22.3 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the content of fluid binder is 75.7 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. For Samples B-1 to B-3, molybdenum disulfide grease Grade A No. 240 manufactured by Maruyama Molybdenum Co., Ltd. is used as the fluid binder. This fluid binder is a non-drying conductive binder. The content of each material constituting the electron generating substance is the same as that in the above samples A-1 to A-3.

[0075] Samples C-1 to C-3 have the configuration shown in FIG. 14. Specifically, the interior of a cylindrical magnet body 1 is filled with an electron-generating material, and the magnet body 1 is provided with electrode portions 2, 2 that close the openings at both ends. The cylindrical magnet body 1 (cylindrical neodymium magnet) has an outer diameter of 25 mm, an inner diameter of 19 mm, and a height of 5 mm. The electrode portion 2 is made of 0.5 mm-thick SUS430 sheet material. The electron-generating members of Samples C-1 to C-3 correspond to those manufactured by the first manufacturing method described above. The electron-generating material filled into the cylindrical magnet body 1 has the same configuration as that of Samples A-1 to A-3, and is formed by mixing and thoroughly stirring a powder of radium ore (natural ore), a powder of an electron-generating substance, and a room-temperature plating solution containing zinc (a dry, conductive, flowable binder; a room-temperature plating paint containing 96% by weight of zinc), pouring the mixture into the cylindrical magnet body 1, and drying it. The content of radium ore (natural ore) was 2 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, the content of the electron generating substance was 22.3 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the content of the fluid binder was 75.7 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. A powder mixture of titanium dioxide, metallic magnesium, metallic silicon, black silica, lanthanum hexaboride, and copper was used as the electron generating material. The content of titanium dioxide powder was 8 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, the content of metallic magnesium powder was 7.3 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, the content of metallic silicon was 3 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material, and the content of black silica was 2 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The content of lanthanum hexaboride was 0.5 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material. The content of the copper powder is set to 1.5 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the electron generating material.

[0076] We commissioned the Hiroshima Prefectural Technology Research Institute to measure the coefficients of friction of electron generating materials related to Samples A-1 to A-3, B-1 to B-3, and C-1 to C-3. As described in the "Test Results (Notification)" shown in Figures 15 and 16, the test was conducted in accordance with JIS K7125:1999 "Test Method for the Coefficient of Friction of Plastic Films and Sheets." Using a Shimadzu AG-X plus 10kN tester, we measured the static and dynamic coefficients of friction between a test specimen (aluminum: 42mm x 42mm x 42mm cubic test specimen) and paper. To minimize the effect of van der Waals forces, we used paper with a finely textured surface (copy paper; Nippon Paper Trading Co., Ltd.: PPC7070) as the sliding surface for the test specimen. Here, the LePTON POWER TIPS (A-1 to A-3) listed in the "Notice Regarding Test Results" correspond to the above samples A-1 to A-3, the POWER CONDUCTOR GREASE (B-1 to B-3) corresponds to the above samples B-1 to B-3, and the ring magnet type (C-1 to C-3) corresponds to the above samples C-1 to C-3.

[0077] For each of these nine samples, tests were conducted to determine whether the static and dynamic friction coefficients changed before and after attachment or application to the specimen. Measurements of each sample after attachment or application were conducted six hours after attachment or application. Measurements of the static and dynamic friction coefficients were conducted three times, and the average values ​​are listed in the "Test Results (Notification)" associated with Figures 15 and 16. Prior to the friction coefficient measurements at Hiroshima Prefectural Technology Research Institute, the inventors of the present invention conducted a cloud chamber experiment to confirm that the electron-generating member (electron-generating material) according to the present invention generates electrons.

[0078] As shown in the "Test Results (Notification)" related to Figures 15 and 16, for Samples A-1 to A-3 (LePTON POWER TIPS (A-1 to A-3)), the static friction coefficients before installation were 0.33 for Sample A-1, 0.31 for Sample A-2, and 0.31 for Sample A-3, whereas after installation, these values ​​changed to 0.31 for Sample A-1, 0.29 for Sample A-2, and 0.29 for Sample A-3. In other words, the static friction coefficients after installation decreased by 6.1% for Sample A-1, 6.5% for Sample A-2, and 6.5% for Sample A-3 compared to the static friction coefficients before installation.

[0079] Furthermore, the dynamic friction coefficient before installation was 0.31 for Sample A-1, 0.27 for Sample A-2, and 0.29 for Sample A-3, whereas after installation it changed to 0.23 for Sample A-1, 0.23 for Sample A-2, and 0.23 for Sample A-3. This indicates that the dynamic friction coefficient after installation was reduced by 25.8% for Sample A-1, 14.8% for Sample A-2, and 20.7% for Sample A-3 compared to the dynamic friction coefficient before installation.

[0080] Furthermore, in the "Test Results (Notification)" of Figures 15 and 16, it can be seen that for Samples B-1 to B-3 (POWER CONDUCTOR GREASE (B-1 to B-3)), which are configured in a paste form, the static friction coefficients before application were 0.29 for Sample B-1, 0.37 for Sample B-2, and 0.25 for Sample B-3, whereas after installation, these values ​​changed to 0.29 for Sample B-1, 0.31 for Sample B-2, and 0.23 for Sample B-3. In other words, it can be seen that the static friction coefficients after application were unchanged for Sample B-1, reduced by 16.2% for Sample B-2, and 8.0% for Sample B-3 compared to the static friction coefficients before application.

[0081] Furthermore, the dynamic friction coefficients before application were 0.28 for sample B-1, 0.34 for sample B-2, and 0.24 for sample B-3, whereas after application they changed to 0.25 for sample B-1, 0.23 for sample B-2, and 0.22 for sample B-3. This indicates that the dynamic friction coefficients after application were reduced by 10.7% for sample B-1, 32.4% for sample B-2, and 8.3% for sample B-3 compared to the values ​​of the dynamic friction coefficients before application.

[0082] Furthermore, in the "Test Results (Notification)" of Figures 15 and 16, it can be seen that for Samples C-1 to C-3 (ring magnet types (C-1 to C-3)), the static friction coefficients before installation were 0.30 for Sample C-1, 0.30 for Sample C-2, and 0.29 for Sample C-3, whereas after installation these values ​​changed to 0.23 for Sample C-1, 0.25 for Sample C-2, and 0.25 for Sample C-3. In other words, it can be seen that the static friction coefficients after installation were reduced by 23.3% for Sample C-1, 16.7% for Sample C-2, and 13.8% for Sample C-3 compared to the static friction coefficient values ​​before installation.

[0083] Furthermore, the dynamic friction coefficient before installation was 0.26 for sample C-1, 0.26 for sample C-2, and 0.24 for sample C-3, whereas after installation it changed to 0.21 for sample C-1, 0.23 for sample C-2, and 0.21 for sample C-3. This indicates that the dynamic friction coefficient after installation was reduced by 19.2% for sample C-1, 11.5% for sample C-2, and 12.5% ​​for sample C-3 compared to the dynamic friction coefficient before installation.

[0084] From the above, it can be seen that the use of the electron generating member according to the present invention significantly reduces the coefficient of static friction and the coefficient of kinetic friction. For example, by attaching the electron generating member according to the present invention to a milling machine that uses a rotating blade to cut metals, the electrons emitted from the electron generating member propagate to the milling machine's blade, reducing the coefficient of friction between the blade and the workpiece. As a result, the vibration of the rotating blade is reduced, improving machining accuracy and quieting the machine's operating noise. Furthermore, by propagating the electrons emitted from the electron generating member to a motor, the coefficient of friction at the contact points of rotating parts inside the motor is reduced, thereby extending the motor's life and improving its efficiency. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] S11 Electron generating material formation step S12 Electron generating material filling step S21 Electron generating material formation step S22 Formwork insertion step S23 Drying step S31 Electron generating material formation step S32 Formwork Insertion Step S33 Drying step S34 Magnetization step S41 Electron generating material formation step S42 Formwork insertion step S43 Compression Molding Step 1. Magnet body 2 Electrode part 3. Insulating materials

Claims

1. an electron-generating material forming step of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, and a fluid binder to form an electron-generating material having fluidity; and a step of filling the electron-generating material having fluidity into the inside of a cylindrical magnet body having a north pole at one end and a south pole at the other end.

2. an electron-generating material forming step of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, and a dry fluid binder to form an electron-generating material having fluidity; a mold-injecting step of injecting the electron-generating material having fluidity into a mold; a drying step of drying the electron-generating material placed in the mold; and a magnet body setting step of setting a magnet body on the electron generating material after drying.

3. an electron-generating material forming step of mixing and stirring a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance, a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral, a powder of a ferrite magnet raw material, and a dry fluid binder to form an electron-generating material having fluidity; a mold-injecting step of injecting the electron-generating material having fluidity into a mold; a drying step of drying the electron-generating material placed in the mold; and a magnetizing step of magnetizing the electron generating material after drying.

4. an electron-generating material forming step of mixing a powder of a natural mineral containing a radioactive substance with a powder of an electron-generating material that generates electrons by alpha rays emitted from the natural mineral to form an electron-generating material; a mold inserting step of inserting the electron-generating material into a mold; a compression molding step of compressing and molding the electron-generating material placed in the mold; and a magnet body setting step of setting a magnet body on the compression-molded electron-generating material.

5. The electron-generating material powder includes titanium dioxide powder and 5. The method for producing an electron generating member according to claim 1, further comprising at least one powder selected from the group consisting of lanthanum hexaboride, black silica, metallic magnesium, tungsten, metallic silicon, molybdenum disulfide, and metallic germanium.

6. The average particle size of the natural mineral powder is 200 μm or less, The method for producing an electron generating member according to claim 1 , wherein the powder of the electron generating material has an average particle size of 200 μm or less.

7. The method for producing an electron generating member according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid binder has electrical conductivity.

8. 5. The method for producing an electron generating member according to claim 1, wherein the fluid binder contains at least one powder selected from the group consisting of zinc, molybdenum disulfide, and copper.

9. The method for producing an electron generating member according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid binder is a room temperature plating solution containing zinc.

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