Asahi Kasei Battery Separator Corporation Begins Construction of Lithium-ion Battery Separator Plant in Niagara Region

Asahi Kasei Battery Separator Corporation has officially started construction on its new lithium-ion battery separator manufacturing plant in Port Colborne, Ontario, Canada, reinforcing its commitment to the North American electric vehicle (EV) market. The facility is expected to begin commercial production by 2027, pending the necessary permits and approvals. This plant will be a joint venture between Asahi Kasei and Honda.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on November 14, was attended by various government officials and executives from both Asahi Kasei and Honda. The plant is projected to create over 300 full-time jobs in its first phase and will have the capacity to produce approximately 700 million square meters of coated lithium-ion battery separators annually. These separators are crucial components in lithium-ion batteries, as they prevent short circuits by keeping the positive and negative electrodes apart while allowing lithium ions to pass through, enabling energy storage.

The project is set to enter its next phase, which includes visible construction work such as structural development and utility connections. Koshiro Kudo, President of Asahi Kasei Corporation, emphasized that the facility marks a major step forward in advancing battery technology. "We are establishing a center of excellence here in Port Colborne that will position Asahi Kasei as a leader in supplying electric vehicle battery separators in North America," Kudo said, highlighting the company's role in supporting the energy transition with innovative technology.

This plant will be Canada’s first large-scale wet-process separator facility, further strengthening Asahi Kasei's energy storage business and growth strategy. The separators produced here will be integral to the performance of lithium-ion batteries, enhancing energy density and long-term durability, both critical for EVs and other energy storage solutions.

In preparation for the facility’s launch, Asahi Kasei has already begun local hiring, with over five employees supporting the project’s early stages. The company also hosted a community open house in September at the Vale Health & Wellness Centre in Port Colborne, providing an opportunity for locals to learn about the project and available career opportunities. Asahi Kasei is committed to contributing to the local economy and has initiated earthworks using provincial companies and contractors for the project’s groundwork.

The Asahi Kasei Group has been dedicated to improving life and living for people worldwide since its establishment in 1922, originally focusing on ammonia and cellulose fiber. Over the years, the company has grown by continuously evolving its business portfolio to address the changing needs of society. With a global workforce of over 49,000 employees, Asahi Kasei is committed to supporting a sustainable future by offering solutions to global challenges through its three core business sectors: Materials, Homes, and Health Care.