The Mitsubishi Chemical Group has unveiled plans to expand its production capacity for anode materials used in lithium-ion batteries, primarily for electric vehicles (EVs). This expansion will take place at the Group's Kagawa Plant, located in Sakaide, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, with operations set to begin in October 2026. The move is part of the Group's strategy to address the growing global demand for lithium-ion batteries and support the transition toward sustainable and carbon-neutral mobility.

Anode material is a key component of lithium-ion batteries and is typically derived from either natural or synthetic graphite. The Group has established itself as a leader in producing high-quality anode materials from natural graphite, which has several advantages over synthetic alternatives. Natural graphite not only boasts a lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emission manufacturing process but also provides distinct benefits in terms of lifecycle assessment. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice for lithium-ion battery production, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints in energy storage and transportation.

In a significant technological breakthrough, the Group has developed a proprietary grade of anode material using natural graphite that exceeds the performance of synthetic graphite. A key innovation lies in addressing the issue of swelling—a phenomenon that affects battery life and has long been a challenge for natural graphite. By constraining swelling, the Group’s advanced anode material enhances battery durability and performance, making it an ideal choice for the high demands of EV batteries.

To meet the increasing market demand for this high-performance grade, the Group has decided to boost the production capacity at its Kagawa Plant to 11,000 tons annually. This expansion will strengthen the supply chain for lithium-ion batteries and support the growing EV market while also contributing to the broader goal of making mobility materials more carbon-neutral. The Kagawa Plant, located at 1 Bannosu-cho, Sakaide, Kagawa Prefecture, will serve as a key facility for manufacturing this next-generation anode material.

The increased production capacity aligns with the Group’s broader mission to advance sustainable technologies and contribute to a carbon-neutral society. By focusing on innovative solutions and efficient production methods, the Group aims to enhance its role in the global energy transition and meet the evolving needs of the mobility sector.

With this initiative, the Mitsubishi Chemical Group reinforces its position as a leader in sustainable materials development, addressing critical challenges in battery technology while supporting the worldwide shift toward eco-friendly transportation. The expanded operations at the Kagawa Plant will not only meet growing industry demands but also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of lithium-ion battery production.