Toyocolor to supply CNT to SK Innovation

Japan’s Toyocolor said on Thursday that it will be supplying its carbon nanotube (CNT) to SK Innovation’s operations in North America and Europe.

CNT has the same level of conductivity as copper but has hundred times the strength of iron.

Many companies are developing related components to supply to batteries.

Toyocolor’s CNT, called Lioaccum, is used as conductive material for battery cathodes. It helps the flow of electricity and electrons.

Compared to carbon black, which is also used as conductive material in cathodes, less is used for even higher conductivity. This allows battery companies to secure more space within battery cells and reduce costs.

Toyocolor’s CNT will be produced at its plant in Georgia. Supply to SK Innovation’s factory in Europe will start in the first quarter of 2022. SK Innovation will be supplying the batteries that use CNT to Volkswagen and Fod.

Toyocolor is a subsidiary of Toyo Ink SC Holdings. The Tokyo-based parent company had said it plans to invest 10 billion yen up to 2026 to supply battery materials stably to customers.