Chemetall, the global surface treatment business unit of BASF Coatings and a leading provider of innovative surface treatment solutions, has entered into a strategic partnership with Londian Wason (Shenzhen) Holdings Group Co., Ltd., a global leader in new energy and electronic materials and one of the world’s largest producers of lithium battery copper foil.
Driving Green Transformation Through Innovation
The collaboration focuses on the development and application of Chemetall’s newly launched Gardolene® D — a chromium-free and fluoride-free passivation technology designed for copper foils. This partnership represents a milestone in advancing sustainable surface treatment solutions, supporting the global shift toward clean energy, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage sectors across China and the Asia-Pacific region.
A Milestone in Sustainable Surface Treatment
“Londian Wason is the first customer in China to use our new Gardolene® D technology, underscoring our leadership in surface treatment innovation,” said Frank Naber, Senior Vice President, Global Surface Treatment, BASF Coatings. “This breakthrough not only enhances EV and energy storage performance but also helps our partner achieve their sustainability and performance goals,” he added.
Guangling Zhou, CEO of Londian Wason Group, remarked, “By combining Chemetall’s global expertise in surface treatment with Londian Wason’s two decades of technical excellence in copper foil manufacturing, we are driving technological breakthroughs and sustainability to shape the future of the industry.”
Strengthening Regional Presence in Asia-Pacific
“China leads the world in electric vehicle adoption and battery production,” said Evelyn Shen, Vice President, Chemetall Asia Pacific. “Our partnership with Londian Wason strengthens our regional footprint and accelerates market adoption of sustainable technologies. Chemetall remains committed to creating customer value through innovative and eco-efficient surface treatment solutions in high-growth markets across Asia Pacific,” Shen added.
Gardolene® D: A Game-Changer for Copper Foil Applications
Gardolene® D is the first global chromium-free and fluoride-free passivation technology developed for copper foils. This industry-first innovation offers:
*Superior corrosion protection and enhanced surface performance
*Improved surface energy, allowing better adhesion of anode active materials
*Reduced electrical resistivity, leading to higher battery efficiency
Extended battery lifespan — up to 6% longer after 1,000 cycles at 25°C compared to conventional chromium (VI) passivation methods By improving the bonding and conductivity of copper foils, Gardolene® D helps maximize energy output and durability in EV batteries and energy storage systems.
Seamless Integration with Existing Manufacturing
A key advantage of Gardolene® D lies in its compatibility with existing manufacturing equipment. It can be applied to both electro-deposited and rolled-annealed copper foil substrates. This makes it ideal for battery production, renewable energy applications, and next-generation energy storage systems.
Toward a More Sustainable Future
As per the company press release, Chemetall and Londian Wason are setting new benchmarks in green chemistry. Their partnership also drives progress in process innovation and industrial collaboration. Their joint effort demonstrates how sustainable technology and scientific innovation can drive progress toward cleaner energy. It also accelerates the development of more efficient battery systems. This reinforces both companies’ commitment to environmental responsibility and technological leadership.
The partnership demonstrates the commitment to creating value for customers by providing innovative and more sustainable solutions
