TOKYO, May 16, 2014 _ UBE MAXELL CO., LTD. today announced that it has signed a patent license agreement with LG Chem, Ltd. for separator film technology owned by LG Chem. UBE MAXELL is a joint venture between Ube Industries, Ltd. and Hitachi Maxell, Ltd. in the field of coated separator films for lithium-ion batteries.
Under the agreement, UBE MAXELL acquires patent use rights for ceramic coating of separator substrates, which are a key component of lithium-ion batteries.
UBE MAXELL was formed in February 2011 by joint investors Ube Industries and Hitachi Maxell. The company engages in the manufacturing and sales of high-performance coated separator films for lithium-ion batteries used in hybrid and electric vehicles, and lithium-ion batteries for industrial applications.
The patent granted to UBE MAXELL is for LG Chem's Safety Reinforced Separator (SRS®) technology, which uses a ceramic coating on separator substrates to enhance the thermal deformation resistance and mechanical strength of separators. This in turn prevents short-circuits inside lithium-ion batteries to ensure lithium-ion battery safety.
The license agreement enables UBE MAXELL to enhance its technology as a leading manufacturer of high-performance coating-type separator films, and will strengthen the company's presence in the market for lithium-ion battery materials.
Details of the license agreement between UBE MAXELL and LG Chem have not been disclosed.
| Company Name | UBE MAXELL CO., LTD. |
|---|---|
| Address | 1 Koizumi, Oyamazaki-cho, Otokuni-gun, Kyoto Prefecture |
| President and Representative Director | Keiichi Nagata |
| Business Description | Manufacturing and sales of separator films for lithium-ion batteries |
| Established | February 2011 |
| Capital Stock | ¥150 million |
| Shareholders | Ube Industries, Ltd.(51%), Hitachi Maxell, Ltd. (49%) |
