The prestigious Japan Prize for science and technology has been awarded to Dr Akira Yoshino for his “significant contributions” to development of the lithium-ion battery, US-based separator firm Daramic has announced.
Dr Yoshino is a fellow of Japan’s Asahi Kasei, of which Daramic is a subsidiary.
Dr Yoshino was chosen in recognition of “his original and breakthrough accomplishments that formed the technological and industrial foundations of the lithium-ion battery”, Daramic said.
“Asahi Kasei’s understanding of electrochemistry through Dr Yoshino’s work has led to continued innovation in advanced electrification and energy storage technologies— including the advancement of the lead-acid battery,” Daramic said.
“Dr Yoshino invented the modern lithium-ion battery, which comprises a completely new combination of carbon for the negative electrode and LiCoO2 for the positive electrode,” Daramic said. “He has also developed other technologies that were essential for the successful commercialisation of the lithium-ion battery.”
Daramic said that drawing on the expertise of Dr Yoshino and his team through Asahi Kasei, the company benefited from “advanced capabilities that help support Daramic in enhancing the lead-acid battery”.
