Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 14, Nippon Shokubai Ltd., based in Osaka, Japan, has signed an agreement with Kitakyushu City to build a new production facility for LiFSI (Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide), branded as Ionel, in the Hibikinada area of Wakamatsu Ward. The plant will focus on manufacturing battery electrolytes to meet growing demand in the energy sector.

Nippon Shokubai Signs Location Agreement for Establishment of New Ionel Plant

Ionel serves as a key electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries, enhancing performance with benefits like extended battery life, faster charging, and improved output in low temperatures, according to Nippon Shokubai. A company spokesperson noted: “Demand for this material is expected to grow since electrification of automobiles is rapidly advancing.” In 2022, Nippon Shokubai partnered with Arkema S.A., based in Colombes, France, to develop an efficient production process for LiFSI, strengthening its capabilities in this field.

Kitakyushu City was selected for its strategic advantages, including access to robust logistics and utility infrastructure. The area also hosts a cluster of automotive and environmental industries, making it an ideal location for the facility. The plant will occupy approximately 65,000 square meters and represents an investment of about 37.5 billion yen. Once operational in July 2028, it will have a production capacity of 3,000 metric tons per year. Construction is scheduled to start in January 2026.

The facility aligns with the increasing shift toward electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions. By producing Ionel locally, Nippon Shokubai aims to support advancements in battery technology, contributing to more efficient and reliable energy storage systems. The Hibikinada site is expected to play a significant role in meeting both domestic and global demand for high-performance electrolytes.

This initiative reflects Nippon Shokubai’s commitment to innovation in the energy sector while leveraging Kitakyushu’s industrial strengths. The project is poised to enhance the region’s reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing, with construction and operations proceeding on a clear timeline to ensure timely delivery of the new capacity.