Evonik inaugurates Alu5 production site in Japan to power next-generation battery and coating technologies

Photo caption from left to right: Mr. Hirotake Ohta, Representative Director and President of High-Punity Silicon Corporation; Mr. Tomohiro Mori, Mayor of the Yokkaichi City; Mr. Katsuyuki Ichimi, Governor of the Mie Prefecture; Mr. Goro Naito, President of Evonik Japan and Nippon Aerosil; Mr. Emmanuel Auer, Head of Evonik Smart Effects business line; Ms. Petra Sigmund, German Ambassador to Japan

(IN BRIEF) Evonik has opened its first fumed alumina production plant, “Alu5,” in Yokkaichi, Japan, marking a key step in expanding its aluminum oxide business across Asia. The mid-double-digit million Euro investment will produce AEROXIDE®, a high-performance aluminum oxide solution used in lithium-ion batteries, coatings, and electric mobility applications. The new facility enhances regional supply security, shortens delivery times, and reduces emissions while promoting sustainable innovation. Executives Emmanuel Auer, Elias Lacerda, and Claus Rettig emphasized that Alu5 represents a cornerstone of Evonik’s Asia growth strategy and a commitment to advancing durable, resource-efficient technologies.

(PRESS RELEASE) YOKKAICHI, Japan, 24-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Evonik has officially inaugurated its first state-of-the-art fumed alumina production facility, “Alu5,” in Yokkaichi, Japan, marking a major milestone in its strategy to expand its aluminum oxide product footprint across Asia. This mid-double-digit million Euro investment strengthens Evonik’s regional presence in advanced materials for electromobility and coatings while reinforcing its global commitment to innovation, sustainability, and supply security.

The new Alu5 plant will produce AEROXIDE®, Evonik’s high-performance fumed aluminum oxide solution engineered for ultra-thin coatings, lithium-ion batteries, and sustainable powder coatings. Known for its superior durability and efficiency, AEROXIDE® enhances energy storage and product longevity, serving fast-growing sectors such as electric mobility, consumer electronics, and advanced coatings.

“The launch of our Alu5 plant is more than just another capacity expansion—it’s a strategic move to bring our high-performance aluminum oxide products closer to our customers in Asia,” said Emmanuel Auer, Head of Evonik’s Smart Effects business line. Elias Lacerda, Head of Evonik’s Coating Additives business line, added, “From battery technologies to coatings, we’re enabling faster and more efficient access to the materials that drive modern industry.”

Equipped with cutting-edge production technology, the Alu5 facility sets new benchmarks in efficiency, quality, and environmental responsibility, helping Evonik reduce lead times and minimize its carbon footprint. The project highlights successful collaboration between Evonik’s Custom Solutions (which includes the Coating Additives business line) and Advanced Technology (which includes the Smart Effects business line) segments—demonstrating the company’s integrated approach to sustainable innovation.

“Alu5 is a cornerstone of our Asia growth strategy,” said Claus Rettig, President of Evonik Asia Pacific. “By manufacturing locally, we’re reducing lead times and emissions while strengthening long-term partnerships and security of supply. This facility embodies our commitment to sustainable innovation and growth across the region.”

The inauguration event in Yokkaichi was attended by key regional and corporate representatives, including Mr. Goro Naito, President of Evonik Japan and Nippon Aerosil; Mr. Emmanuel Auer, Head of Smart Effects; Ms. Petra Sigmund, German Ambassador to Japan; Mr. Hirotake Ohta, President of High-Purity Silicon Corporation; Mr. Tomohiro Mori, Mayor of Yokkaichi City; and Mr. Katsuyuki Ichimi, Governor of Mie Prefecture.

The new Alu5 facility exemplifies Evonik’s mission to advance sustainable specialty chemicals, strengthen regional resilience, and support Asia’s growing demand for cleaner, smarter, and longer-lasting materials.

Media contact:

Naoko Hirota
Region & Site Communications JAP
Spoken languages: english , japanese
+81 90 6008 2995
naoko.hirota@evonik.com

Lena Berg
Head of Market Communications Smart Effects
Spoken languages: german , english
+49 152 08634924
lena.berg@evonik.com

SOURCE: Evonik