S. Korean battery makers to present latest technologies, future visions at Seoul exhibition

Major South Korean battery makers are showcasing their latest technologies and visions for future growth during an international battery exhibition in Seoul this week, the companies said Thursday.

SK On Co., LG Energy Solution Ltd. and Samsung SDI Co. were among some 250 battery and battery parts manufacturers and automotive companies around the globe participating in the three-day InterBattery 2022, taking place in the Convention and Exhibition Center (COEX) through Saturday.

The InterBattery exhibition, first launched in 2013, is an annual business event showcasing various new products and technologies related to the battery industry. This year's session is co-hosted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Korea Battery Industry Association.

During the show, SK On, a newcomer as a separate entity after its split-off from SK Innovation Co., will introduce its latest high-nickel lithium-ion battery, known as the NCM9, and its premium Z-folding technology for separators, the company said in a release.

SK On also will showcase its high-quality cathode materials, a key battery component, followed by the S-Pack technology designed to block heat from spreading to the battery pack from cells in the event of a fire, it said.

Various electric vehicles by SK On's auto partners, including Ferrari's plug-in hybrid model of the SF90 Stradale sports car, and others by Hyundai Motor Co. and Mercedes-Benz, will be on display.

LG Energy Solution Ltd., the world's second-largest battery maker, will introduce a variety of products, ranging from EVs, ICT devices and energy storage systems to e-scooters that run on its battery system.

Its signature Gen5 battery that will be installed in new BMW vehicles, and the road maps for the next-generation Gen6, solid-state battery and cobalt-free battery will be presented.

Its exhibits on solid-state batteries will include a light lithium-sulfur battery known for its high energy density and enhanced sustainability, the company said.

Samsung SDI will also unveil its newly launched PRiMX battery brand that touts superior technology and quality. It will show its product lineups for PRiMX-powered power tools, energy storage systems, and mobility and artificial intelligence (AI) robots.

POSCO Chemical Co., a battery component maker, presented its key battery materials lineup designed for future mobility vehicles, primarily electric vehicles.

It showcased single-crystal cathodes, a new battery material known for its strength in enhancing the mileage, durability and safety of EV batteries. POSCO Chemical is pushing for its mass production.

Its portfolio of anode materials, such as natural and artificial graphite, silicon and low-expansion anodes, were also introduced, along with precursors. (Yonhap)