TOKYO - Asahi Kasei, the Japanese chemical giant, has announced a strategic investment in Ionomr Innovations Inc., signaling a stronger push into the sustainable green hydrogen market. The move integrates Ionomr into Asahi Kasei's "Care for Earth" program, which is dedicated to funding environmentally focused startups, and underscores the company's commitment to hydrogen as a central growth driver towards a zero-emission society.
The collaboration between Asahi Kasei and Ionomr is set to enhance the development of Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) technology, which is crucial for cost-effective hydrogen production. AEMs are used in electrolyzers that split water into hydrogen and oxygen, a process pivotal for the creation of green hydrogen. The partnership aims to tackle the challenges of scalability and longevity of AEMs to make them more commercially viable.
Asahi Kasei's Lead Executive Officer for R&D Masami Takenaka expressed optimism about the joint effort, projecting that this collaboration will be pivotal in making hydrogen a key growth gear. Takenaka anticipates a substantial operating income contribution from this sector by 2030, which aligns with global movements toward cleaner energy sources.
Leveraging its extensive experience in membrane-process electrolysis from past projects, including contributions like the large-scale FH2R electrolyzer, Asahi Kasei plans to utilize its $100 million fund to support startups like Ionomr. These startups offer innovative technologies such as Pemion® and Aemion® membranes that are expected to play a significant role in advancing the hydrogen economy.
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