LG Chem obtains patent in Europe
LG Chem researchers check out the final product of its safety-reinforced separator (SRS), a key component of lithium-ion polymer batteries, at its technology center in Daejeon, South Chungcheong Province, Wednesday. / Courtesy of LG Chem
By Kim Yoo-chul
LG Chem, the nation’s largest petrochemical company, has obtained a patent for its safety reinforced separator (SRS) technology in Europe and Japan, the company said Wednesday.
SRS is a key component of lithium-ion polymer batteries that is used in various battery related applications.
“LG recently obtained the patent for SRS in Europe and Japan. This will help us expand our battery-related businesses in target markets,” said Owen Sung, head of LG Chem’s public relations office.
The LG Group’s petrochemical affiliate had the patent registered in China in 2012, the United States in 2010 and in Korea in 2007, the company said in a statement.
SRS is regarded as a core patent to enhance the safety of the separation membrane by means of an inorganic material coating.
The SRS technology is currently being used in battery applications by General Motors, Ford, Renault, Volvo, Hyundai-Kia and other leading global carmakers, the statement added.
“Because LG Chem has already shifted its corporate focus to rechargeable batteries and energy storage solutions, the recent approval will truly help us expand our global territories,” said Sung.
LG Chem saw claims by its European and Japanese rivals for the authorization of its SRS technology. “However, claims by rivals were rejected and nullified,” added Sung.
The patent is also making LG Chem better-positioned in its ongoing litigation with SK Innovation, which the SK Group’s petrochemical affiliate also identified the battery business as one of its next cash-generators, officials said.
LG Chem is the global top supplier for rechargeable batteries to electric vehicles based on the highly-qualified and excellent safety of its separation membrane coating technology.
SK Innovation is the only separation membrane manufacturer in Korea, and it was late to enter into the booming battery market. The appeal against the patent invalidation decision was filed by LG Chem.