Chinese technology company Horizon and German thin film specialist Leonhard Kurz have formed a joint venture. The aim of Horizon-Kurz New Material Technology GmbH, based in Fürth, Germany, is to develop and produce ceramic coatings for separator films for lithium-ion batteries. According to the companies, the new coating solutions will be used primarily in electric mobility, claiming that the coated films are suitable for all standard cell formats, from cylindrical and prismatic cells to pouch cells.
Manufacturing in Europe
According to the partners, their technology is designed to increase the filmsʼ mechanical stability and thermal resistance. Production will take place in Europe in order to shorten supply chains for European customers and increase security of supply. Kurz brings decades of experience in functional surfaces to the joint venture, while Horizon contributes technological expertise and market access.