Asahi Kasei Expands North American Battery Separator Capacity with New Wet-Process Line — Asahi Kasei Corporation

Event summary

Asahi Kasei opened a new Hipore™ wet-process lithium-ion battery separator coating line in Charlotte, North Carolina on August 20, 2026.
The facility expands production capacity at the company’s existing Celgard® manufacturing facility, marking the first step in establishing a regional supply structure for wet-process separators.
Commercial production is scheduled to begin in the second half of fiscal 2026, with construction of a similar facility in Canada also progressing.
The investment was decided in 2023 and coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Celgard® manufacturing facility in Charlotte.

The big picture

Asahi Kasei’s investment in North American battery separator capacity aligns with the region’s growing demand for electric vehicle and energy storage systems. The move underscores the strategic importance of localized production in a competitive market, where suppliers with responsive supply capabilities are well-positioned to capitalize on regional growth. The company’s broader growth strategy for Energy & Infrastructure highlights its commitment to expanding its presence in key markets.

What we're watching

Market Positioning: Whether Asahi Kasei can leverage its localized production to gain market share in the competitive North American battery separator market.
Demand Growth: The pace at which North American battery demand expands beyond electric vehicles into energy storage systems.
Execution Risk: How smoothly Asahi Kasei can integrate and scale its new wet-process separator technology alongside its existing dry-process operations.