R&D System
Technical Research Center—Pursuing original R&D
We conduct proprietary research and development and analytical technology improvement in the fields of recycling of precious metals and rare metals, use of hydrogen and heavy water, and development of new business. We established the Technical Research Center in Kobe High-Tech Park to serve as our R&D hub. We are looking to take even greater strides forward as a company that contributes to society by improving quality and technical innovation.
Research and
Development
We anticipate the needs of our customers and strive to create new products and business by applying our large body of elemental technologies and developing new technologies.
- Technology for separating and refining precious and rare metals
- Precious metals molding and refining technology
- Development of decarbonization technologies
- Development of hydrogen and heavy water utilization technologies
Refining Technology
In addition to wet precious metals refining technology, which is particularly effective for recycled material processing, the Group is developing dry precious metals refining technology effective for the primary raw material processing it is performing in North America. By advancing and combining both wet and dry refining technologies, we are creating effective precious metals refining techniques for handling all kinds of raw materials.
Release Technology
To collect precious metals adhered to the surfaces of parts and jigs, etc., used in the manufacture of electronic components and semiconductors, the Group is developing technology to chemically and physically exfoliate precious metals safely and reliably without damaging the parts and jigs.
Assay
The ARE Holdings Group’s core assay function supports a diverse range of corporate activities using the latest assay equipment and high-level assay technology. In addition, we play an important role in maintaining and enhancing trust with the Group’s customers.
- Development of new assay technology
- Technical guidance for assay groups at each plant and sales office
- Purity assay of precious metals products
- Environmental analysis of issues such as plant wastewater discharges
- Environmental measurement certification business
Assay Technology
The Group is developing assay techniques using X-ray and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) optical emission spectrometry with the aim of conducting rapid and accurate transactions with customers. We are upgrading our precious metals analysis at sites in and outside of Japan, including Asahi Refining.
Engineering
Using cutting-edge technology, experts from each sector design, produce, construct, and provide maintenance of facilities at subsidiaries in and outside Japan, helping to support safe and stable operation of the facilities.
- Design, production, construction, and maintenance of facilities and buildings
- Maintenance control of existing facilities
- Installation and maintenance of precious metals collection facilities for our customers
- Support for installation of robotics and IoT for equipment
Introductory examples
E-Scrap Recycling Technology
We developed and introduced new sampling technology and analytics that enables us to accurately determine the amount of precious metals in waste electronics substrates. This is currently one of Asahi Pretec’s core businesses, and we handle a range of shipments from Japan and around the world.
Technology for Stripping and Cleaning Precious Metals
We developed and commercialized a process for the rapid and precise removal and cleaning of precious metals from semiconductor manufacturing equipment and jigs. By effectively selecting and combining a variety of cleaning technologies, we provide services that meet diverse demands.
Improving Processes and Introducing New Equipment at Plants Outside Japan
We improve processes at Group company plants not only in Japan, but also around the world. We collaborate with local employees in other countries to handle many types of materials, including contaminants, as we improve processes and manufacturing equipment to ensure the stable production of high-quality products at a low cost.
Intellectual property
Since being opened in 1998, the Technical Research Center has created many unique technologies for separation, recovery, and processing precious and rare metals as well as detoxifying and recycling waste.
The center also has enormous expertise on as-yet-undisclosed technologies for refining and analysis, which supports the high quality of Asahi Pretec products and the Company’s ability to handle a wide range of scrap and waste materials.
The Intellectual Property Department is responsible for filing and managing patents and trademarks as well as handling undisclosed expertise.
Patent Applications (Cumulative): 84 (As of March 31, 2024)
Production System
Achieving a one-stop process from reception to final product
Bando Plant
Production flow
Inspection & Preprocessing
We inspect the dental and jewelry scrap entrusted by our customers on an individual basis and select the optimal processing flow. By incorporating the latest equipment, we have achieved cost reductions through circular wet processing with chemical reuse, while also minimizing wastewater generated at the factory, ensuring environmentally friendly operations.
Assay
We offer high-precision assay by using equipment and methods suited to the raw materials and compositions. Additionally, we respond flexibly to customer needs by selecting fast and accurate assay methods, while working to improve reliability and further advance the sophistication of precious metal assay.
Refining
Using advanced separation and extraction technologies developed from our early experience, we refine various compositions generated during preprocessing to high purity. We have implemented automated equipment to ensure a safe and efficient working environment, while streamlining operations.
Smelting & Molding
Using dry refining technology for precious metals, we remove impurity elements and cast granules and bars to form high-quality precious metal bullion. The equipment is controlled by advanced robotics technology, enabling automated operation, and IoT technology is employed for operational monitoring, making nighttime automatic operations possible.
Product Manufacturing
High-purity precious metal bullion are processed into products with specifications and shapes that meet market and customer demands, and are then sold and delivered. The final products are assigned serial numbers for identification, and traceability management is implemented, covering raw material history, manufacturing history, weight values, product purity, and other relevant details.
Group Quality
Our reliable quality receives high accolades from Japan and overseas
ASAHI METALFINE, a full member of the Japan Gold Metal Association, recycles precious metals in Japan. Its gold, silver, platinum, and palladium metals are recognized as brand products for delivery on the Osaka Exchange (OSE). In addition, these products are recognized in the global market for their reliable quality, with the gold and silver certified by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), and the platinum and palladium certified by the London Platinum and Palladium Market (LPPM) as Good Delivery bars.
ISO 9001 (International Standard for Quality Management)
ISO 9001, the international standard for quality management, helps organizations ensure that they meet customers’ demands while fulfilling all legal and regulatory requirements for products and services.
With ISO 9001 certification, the ARE Holdings Group provides assured high-quality products and services.
ISO 14001 (International Standard for Environmental Management)
ISO 14001 is the international standard for environmental management to help organizations minimize the environmental burden of their business operations.
With ISO 14001 certification, the ARE Holdings Group now promotes continual initiatives to protect the natural resources entrusted to this generation.