Tonen Increases Production Capacity

Tonen Chemical Corp., Exxon Mobil’s affiliate in Japan, has increased its microporous film production capacity by 50% at its Nasu Plant to satisfy strong demand and high growth in the lithium-ion battery separator market.

“The added film lines enable us to pursue potential demand growth for customers developing new-generation lithium-ion batteries for hybrid vehicles,” says Jim Harris, Polymers senior vice president, Exxon Mobil Chemical Co.

Tonen commercialized and produces a thin, polyethylene-based, porous film that is used as a separator in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for small electronics. The film is thin, yet strong, helping to increase the stability and reliability of the batteries. Its homogeneous pore structure provides exceptional performance to maximize battery safety. The film closes its pores if excessive heat is generated during the chemical reaction in the battery, stemming the flow of lithium ions between the anode and cathode. This minimizes potential short circuits and battery rupture.