AKChem expands into aramid and sodium-ion battery materials with new TPC plant and hard carbon anode capacity

AKChem is accelerating its shift from commodity chemicals to specialty materials, completing a terephthaloyl chloride (TPC) plant in Ulsan and expanding hard carbon anode production for sodium-ion batteries in Jeonju. TPC is a key raw material for aramid fiber used in aerospace and defense, while hard carbon anodes are a promising alternative to graphite for next-generation batteries. The company says its TPC facility uses a photochlorination process that reduces environmental impact, positioning it to meet tightening global regulations. AKChem also showcased its battery materials at the China International Battery Fair in Shenzhen, signaling intent to export hard carbon anodes. The move reflects broader trends in supply chain localization and demand for low-carbon industrial inputs.