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Showa Denko will develop electrolytes for lithium ion batteries

The new electrolyte salt, which can replace conventional electrolyte salts, has been developed by Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (APD), of the United States. SDK has obtained a license from APD to use APD’s patents and know-how concerning the new electrolyte salt for automotive (electric vehicles) and other applications. The terms of the license agreement were not released. The two companies have separately been developing next-generation battery materials for many years.

SDK will utilize APD’s new electrolyte salt in combination with SDK’s proprietary liquid electrolyte technology, aiming to soon commercialize next-generation formulated liquid electrolytes for LIBs. Together with anode material for LIBs in electric vehicles, SDK is planning to sell JPY 60 billion of advanced battery materials in 2020.

Compared with conventional electrolyte salts, the new electrolyte salt is anticipated to be advantageous in that it minimizes reaction with water (a cause of deterioration of batteries); does not generate cathode-corroding acids with the lapse of time; and is capable of operating at higher temperatures which are desirable for automotive applications. SDK’s next-generation liquid electrolyte is aimed to prevent or inhibit the risk of ignition resulting from overcharge of LIBs, and battery deterioration due to oxidants generated in liquid electrolytes after repeated charges and discharges and, at the same time, increase battery capacity.*

SDK will expand its lineup of fluorine compounds by advancing into the area of LIB components, in addition to electronics applications. In view of the global warming issue and limitations of mineral resources, we will continue providing individualized materials and technologies for environmental protection and energy conservation, thereby contributing to the sound growth of society.

Battery capacity refers to the total amount of electric current, in terms of ampere-hour (Ah), produced from the beginning to the end of the use of a battery, without charges during the course.

Air Products (NYSE:APD) serves customers in industrial, energy, technology and healthcare markets worldwide with a unique portfolio of atmospheric gases, process and specialty gases, performance materials, and equipment and services. Founded in 1940, Air Products has built leading positions in key growth markets such as semiconductor materials, refinery hydrogen, home healthcare services, natural gas liquefaction, and advanced coatings and adhesives. The company is recognized for its innovative culture, operational excellence and commitment to safety and the environment. In fiscal 2009, Air Products had revenues of $8.3 billion, operations in over 40 countries, and 18,900 employees around the globe. For more information, visit: www.airproducts.com.

Showa Denko K.K. ('SDK'; TSE: 4004, US: SHWDF) is a major manufacturer and marketer of chemical products serving a wide range of fields ranging from heavy industry to the electronic and computer industries. SDK makes petrochemicals (ethylene, propylene), aluminum products (ingots, rods), electronic equipment (hard disks for computers) and inorganic materials (ceramics, carbons). The company has overseas operations and a joint venture with Netherlands-based Montell and Nippon Petrochemicals to make and market polypropylenes. In March 2001, SDK merged with Showa Denko Aluminum Corporation to strengthen the high-value-added fabricated aluminum products operations, and is today developing next-generation optical communications-use wafers. For more information, please visit www.sdk.co.jp