Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Asahi Kasei Licenses Electrolyte Tech to EAS Batteries for New High-Power Cell

Key highlights
  • Asahi Kasei and EAS Batteries signed a license agreement for acetonitrile-containing electrolyte technology.
  • The new ultra-high power lithium-ion cell is set for market release by March 2026.
  • The UHP601300 LFP 22 cell offers 2,550 W/kg specific power and 2,400 cycle life at 5C/5C.
  • Germany's Federal Ministry supported the project under the 'HEADLINE' initiative.

License Agreement

Asahi Kasei and EAS Batteries have entered into a license agreement for the use of Asahi Kasei's acetonitrile-containing electrolyte technology. This technology will be utilized in EAS's new ultra-high power lithium-ion battery cell, which features a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode.

Product Launch and Specifications

The new cylindrical cell, named UHP601300 LFP 22, is scheduled for market release by March 2026. It demonstrates a specific power of 2,550 W/kg under continuous discharge and 3,760 W/kg under a 2-second pulse discharge. The cell also offers a cycle life of 2,400 cycles at 5C/5C at room temperature.

Development and Support

The cell's development is a result of collaboration between Asahi Kasei and EAS Batteries, with financial backing from Germany's Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space under the "HEADLINE" project. The electrolyte technology was designed to meet the needs of demanding applications in marine, railway, and construction machinery.

Technological Advancements

Asahi Kasei's research into high ionic conductive electrolytes began in 2010, focusing on acetonitrile as a key ingredient. The company announced a successful proof of concept in June 2024, highlighting increased power output at low temperatures and improved durability at high temperatures.

Future Plans

Asahi Kasei and EAS Batteries plan to sublicense their combined technologies to global OEMs and battery manufacturers, aiming to expand into mobility applications.