Sumitomo Chemical to begin production of its NXA series ultra-fine α-alumina
September 11, 2023
Sumitomo Chemical, based in Tokyo, Japan, is set to begin mass production of ultra-fine α-alumina at its recently established manufacturing facility at its Ehime Works in Niihama City, Japan. The move follows what the company describes as a “groundbreaking success” in its development of production technology for its new NXA series of alumina products.
Alumina materials, made by calcining aluminium hydroxide at high temperatures, are called ultra-high purity alumina when they have purity levels of 99.99% or more. Sumitomo Chemical’s NXA series is a new line of ultra-fine grade α-alumina products aimed at industrial applications. The powders are characterised by homogenous ultra-fine particles, with a particle size of 150 nm (0.15 μm) or less.
Sumitomo Chemical offers a selection of product grades that are reputed to offer quality and stability whilst meeting diverse customer needs. Its alumina products have been utilised in a wide range of applications, including energy-related sectors such as lithium-ion battery separators, as well as in the ICT sector, mainly for LED substrates and semiconductor thermal materials.
With ultra-fine particles and easy-to-sinter characteristics, the new grades are expected to be used as polishing agents for next-generation semiconductors, as well as having significant potential for cutting-edge components which require high strength and chemical resistance, such as artificial joints and dental products.
By collaborating with its customers, Sumitomo Chemical aims to create new markets in the ICT, energy-saving, and life science fields. The company plans to achieve a 30% increase in sales revenue in its ultra-high purity alumina business by FY2025, compared to FY2023.
Download PIM International magazine
