- Asahi Kasei wins the 2025 Imperial Invention Prize for its nickel-coated absorption layer.
- The invention improves the longevity and efficiency of chlor-alkali electrolysis electrodes.
- Asahi Kasei's technology is being adopted by chemical manufacturers globally.
Asahi Kasei (AHKSY, Financial) has been awarded the 2025 Imperial Invention Prize from the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation, recognizing its groundbreaking nickel-coated absorption layer. This innovative technology extends the service life of electrodes used in chlor-alkali electrolysis, a process vital for producing chlorine, caustic soda, and hydrogen.
The nickel-coated absorption layer mitigates the degradation of electrodes that occurs when the electrolysis process is temporarily halted. This degradation is usually a result of reverse current flow, traditionally controlled through mechanical methods that are often prone to malfunctions. Asahi Kasei's solution chemically inhibits this reverse current, promoting more stable and efficient electrolyzer operation.
Since its commercial introduction in 1975, Asahi Kasei has incorporated this advanced technology across over 160 plants, spanning more than 30 countries. The company remains committed to advancing electrochemical processes and is exploring the application of this technology for other uses, such as green hydrogen production.
In addition to the prestigious Imperial Invention Prize, Asahi Kasei's President, Koshiro Kudo, accepted the Award for Distinguished Contribution to Driving the Invention into Implementation on behalf of the company, reflecting its continuous dedication to innovation and sustainability in materials science.
