Young Innovator Creates Fire Ant Repelling Sand Through Science

Yoshiaki Shono, a 10-year-old boy, developed an anti-fire ant sand after encountering them in a broken video game console. His experiments with photocatalysis technology led to a solution he named “Kiraboshi no Suna”. He received recognition for his work and aspires to be a scientist, inspired by the show “Kamen Rider Build.”

A 10-year-old boy, Yoshiaki Shono, embarked on a project to create sand that repels fire ants after encountering them in a malfunctioning video game console. His curiosity about the invasive fire ants, which originated from shipping containers in 2017, grew when he learned that they entered machines seeking warmth. Yoshiaki, who has severe allergies and asthma, feared the ants could invade his favorite park.

Inspiration struck when Yoshiaki and his father explored Japanese inventions, leading him to photocatalysis technology. Photocatalysts can decompose organic matter under light exposure, making them effective for preventing ant infestations and odors. Combining these materials, Yoshiaki envisioned a sand product that would disrupt fire ant behavior.

Over 16 months, Yoshiaki conducted 48 experiments with various photocatalysts mixed into coral sand, aiming to confuse fire ants by dismantling their pheromone trails. Using pavement ants for trials, he developed a mixture he named “Kiraboshi no Suna” (sand of a twinkling star). He plans to patent and market this anti-ant sand within a few years.

His innovative approach earned him the Tokyo governor’s prize in an invention contest, capturing his family’s pride. Inspired by the superhero “Kamen Rider Build,” Yoshiaki expressed excitement for scientific discovery and aspirations for a future in science.

Yoshiaki’s journey showcases the intersection of curiosity, innovation, and the application of science in everyday challenges, particularly in fighting invasive species and addressing environmental concerns.

Yoshiaki Shono’s creative initiative highlights the potential of young innovators in addressing ecological issues. By utilizing photocatalysis technology and conducting thorough experiments, he successfully developed a sand that deters fire ants, pivotal for maintaining safe environments. His achievements reflect both personal resilience in facing allergies and a broader commitment to scientific exploration.

Original Source: www.asahi.com