Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Asahi Kasei Divests Daramic Lead Battery Separator Business

Key highlights
  • Asahi Kasei sold Daramic to Kingswood Capital Management, LP, closing on December 1, 2025.
  • The divestiture is part of Asahi Kasei's three-year plan to improve capital efficiency.
  • Asahi Kasei focuses on lithium-ion battery separators, especially in North America, Japan, and Korea.
  • Recent actions include exiting MMA monomer businesses and expanding Pimel photosensitive polyimide capacity.

Divestiture Details

Asahi Kasei has sold its lead battery separator business, Daramic, to Kingswood Capital Management, LP. The transaction was finalized on December 1, 2025. This move is part of Asahi Kasei's strategy to realign its business focus and resources.

Strategic Focus

The divestiture is a strategic step to enhance Asahi Kasei's capabilities in high-growth areas. The company aims to strengthen its electronics business and expand its lithium-ion battery separator operations, particularly in North America, Japan, and Korea.

Portfolio Transformation

Under its three-year medium-term management plan, "Trailblaze Together," Asahi Kasei is improving capital efficiency by converting past growth investments into tangible returns. The company is channeling resources into key growth areas such as pharmaceuticals, critical care, overseas homes, and electronics.

Recent Actions

Asahi Kasei has recently exited the methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer and related businesses and expanded its capacity for Pimel photosensitive polyimide. These actions demonstrate the company's commitment to its strategic plan and its focus on sustained, profitable growth.