KGA Establishes Dedicated Advanced Development Team for Dry Process Technology

On July 31, KGA announced that it has established a dedicated advanced development team responsible for developing next-generation cathode dry process technology and equipment. The establishment of this dedicated team is aimed at concentrating related capabilities to advance the dry process and to respond swiftly to rapid technological changes in the downstream market.

Recently, the downstream secondary battery market has been witnessing rapid development of new technologies and new materials, mainly led by material and cell makers. However, because each client company requires different specifications and material ratios, equipment manufacturers have been considered relatively slow to respond. The company explained that it established the dedicated organization to overcome these limitations and to solidify its position as a market leader.

The newly established team plans to prioritize the development of dry process technology and equipment, which are drawing attention from global cell makers and electric vehicle companies such as Tesla. Unlike the conventional wet process, the dry process is a next-generation electrode manufacturing method that does not require a drying oven, thereby maximizing space and energy efficiency and shortening manufacturing process time.

In particular, KGA plans to use the new team to develop "hybrid equipment" that combines two or more core pieces of equipment?such as coaters, roll presses, and slitters?used in electrode manufacturing processes to provide multifunctionality. Since two or more functions can be implemented in a single piece of equipment, the company expects this will significantly improve manufacturing efficiency and generate strong interest and demand in the downstream market.

Meanwhile, KGA has already succeeded in developing a "dry mixer" (mixing equipment) for dry electrodes, registered three related technology patents earlier this year, and completed a full lineup of equipment for the entire dry process and all-solid-state battery manufacturing.

A KGA representative stated, "We established the advanced development team to prepare for the era of all-solid-state and dry processes, enabling closer communication with customers and faster technological responses." The representative added, "As battery types diversify and manufacturers expand across different countries and regions, the role of the advanced development team will become even more important."

He continued, "We will continue to quickly identify market trends and respond nimbly to solidify our position as a market leader. With the recent rebound in electric vehicle sales and increasing demand for energy storage systems (ESS), signs of recovery are emerging in the secondary battery industry. We will spare no effort to enhance our business performance and corporate value."