South Korean chemicals firm LG Chem Ltd announced over the weekend the opening of a new research and development (R&D) center in Germany, focused on developing next-generation environmentally friendly technologies.

LG Chem is a major supplier of battery cathode materials for the global electric vehicle industry, with multi-billion US$ deals in place to provide materials for global automakers such as Hyundai Motor Group, Toyota, General Motors and battery manufacturer LG Energy Solution.

The company confirmed that its new Europe Innovation Center, located in Frankfurt, will collaborate with local universities and R&D institutions to develop next-generation materials for rechargeable batteries, recycling technologies and biochemicals.

This is the company’s third overseas R&D centre, following its two facilities in the US: the Life Science Innovation Center in Boston and the North American Innovation Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

LG Chem's Chief Technology Officer, Lee Jong-ku, said at the opening ceremony: “The company will strengthen its R&D capabilities in environmentally friendly technologies to the level of global top-tier players, with a focus on exploring business opportunities in eco-friendly plastics and battery recycling.”