ASAHI KAISEI CRP UNSP/ADR - AHKSY STOCK NEWS

Asahi Kasei has established a new investment framework named “Care for Earth,” committing $100 million over five years to support early-stage startups focused on environmental solutions. This initiative aims to address carbon neutrality challenges, particularly in hydrogen, energy storage, and carbon management technologies.

The investment is part of Asahi Kasei's long-term strategy to enhance its corporate venture capital (CVC) activity, which has been ongoing since 2008 and has seen over 50 startup investments across various global markets. The framework signifies a shift towards addressing longer-term commercial prospects in sustainability, complementing existing healthcare-focused investments.

Asahi Kasei aims to significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a sustainable future by 2050, ultimately transforming its material sector portfolio.

Asahi Kasei's Nonwovens Plant in Nobeoka, Japan, has received the first Renewable Energy Use Certification from Japan's Powered by RE Certification Committee, validating that its Dinamica® production facility operates on 100% renewable energy since March 8, 2023. This initiative aligns with global sustainability goals and carbon neutrality efforts, as Asahi Kasei aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Dinamica®, an artificial suede widely used in automotive interiors, furniture, and industrial materials, exemplifies high-value products made from renewable resources. The certification enhances Asahi Kasei's commitment to environmental responsibility and market competitiveness.

Asahi Kasei and its subsidiary Crystal IS have introduced a new next-generation Klaran single-chip UVC LED that emits 160 mW in the germicidal range of 260-270 nm. This breakthrough represents a 60% increase over previous models, enhancing the efficiency in replacing low-pressure mercury lamps. The compact design remains compatible with existing systems, while the improved output facilitates broader applications in water and air treatment. The new UVC LEDs utilize a rigid fused silica lens for better light transmission and longevity. Commercial release is anticipated later in 2023.

Asahi Kasei and its subsidiary, Crystal IS, have released lifetime characterization data for the Klaran LA UVC LED after over 10,000 hours of testing. The results show a projected L70 lifetime of over 25,000 hours at a temperature of 35°C, exceeding traditional low-pressure mercury lamps. This innovation aims to assist partner companies in water, air, and surface treatment, emphasizing the company's commitment to effective disinfection technology. Eoin Connolly, CEO of Crystal IS, highlighted the significant performance and reliability of Klaran products, reinforcing the brand's reputation for quality in the UVC LED market.

Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) has introduced the AP4473, an ultra-low power DC-DC step-up converter that boosts input voltages as low as 15 millivolts (mV) while consuming only 26 nanoamperes (nA). This new product aims to enable battery-free operations for devices like smartwatches and IoT sensors by harvesting thermal energy, thus eliminating reliance on primary batteries. The AP4473's design includes a PMOS switch and hysteresis comparators to manage power supply efficiently with fewer components, reducing size and costs. It is suited for applications in asset tracking, environmental monitoring, and IoT.

Asahi Kasei has completed the construction of its second Ceolus™ microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) plant at Mizushima Works in Japan, signaling a commitment to meet soaring demand for this product. The groundbreaking occurred in September 2021, with an investment of ¥13 billion, and the facility began trial operations in April 2023. Ceolus™ is critical in pharmaceutical manufacturing, providing enhanced stability and quality for tablet formulations. This facility aims to increase production capacity and support global distribution, thereby improving access to Ceolus™ for patients and manufacturers.

Asahi Kasei has developed a groundbreaking technology for recycling carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) alongside leading institutions in Japan. This method allows for the extraction of high-quality carbon fiber from CFRP and CFRTP waste, maintaining the material's original strength. The innovative electrolyzed sulfuric acid solution method decomposes waste efficiently, promoting a closed-loop recycling system and contributing to the circular economy. This technology targets practical application by 2030, potentially revolutionizing carbon fiber usage in the automobile industry and enhancing sustainability efforts.

Asahi Kasei is showcasing innovative technologies at CES 2023, emphasizing the intersection of sustainability and advanced mobility. Their new concept vehicle, AKXY2, highlights the integration of recycled materials aimed at enhancing safety and functionality. The Smart Cloak Gateway™ offers a secure solution for home deliveries, while advancements in VR/AR technology aim to improve user experience. The company focuses on developing sensors for air quality and impaired driving detection, reflecting its commitment to future living standards.

Asahi Kasei has invested in Circularise B.V., a Dutch startup specializing in digital product passports and mass balance bookkeeping software, alongside Brightlands Venture Partners, 4impact capital, and Neste. This investment, made in November 2022, aims to enhance supply chain traceability and transparency, contributing to a sustainable circular economy. Circularise utilizes Smart Questioning technology and Zero-Knowledge Proofs to provide reliable supply chain management while maintaining stakeholder confidentiality. Asahi Kasei aligns this investment with its commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality by 2050.