Initial Determination supports Syensqo’s intellectual property rights related to PVDF technology for lithium-ion batteries
Syensqo announced today that an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) at the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has issued an Initial Determination in a Section 337 investigation involving Syensqo’s polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) technology for lithium-ion batteries. The Initial Determination is subject to review by the full Commission and the USITC and is subject to appeal.
The ALJ found that the PVDF products at issue in the investigation infringe Syensqo Specialty Polymers USA, LLC’s asserted patent. The Initial Determination also affirmed the validity of Syensqo’s patent and concluded that Syensqo’s investments and activities in the United States satisfy the domestic-industry requirement under Section 337.
The respondents concerned by the Initial Determination are Hubei Fluorine New Materials Co. Ltd., Zhejiang Fluorine Chemical New Material Co. Ltd., Sinochem Lantian Co. Ltd., and Zhejiang Juhua Co. Ltd.
This determination is an important step in protecting the innovations behind our PVDF technologies and recognizes our longstanding investment in U.S. manufacturing and research & development. Respect for intellectual property is essential to fostering innovation and fair competition. We will continue to protect our intellectual property worldwide while supporting our customers and partners with innovative, high-performance materials.
Syensqo’s Solef® PVDF portfolio includes materials developed for demanding lithium-ion battery applications. Syensqo combines materials expertise, manufacturing capabilities and technical support to help customers globally develop high-performance battery technology. Protecting intellectual property is an integral part of Syensqo’s commitment to continued innovation and fair competition. Syensqo manages a global intellectual property portfolio spanning more than 1,600 patent families across more than 80 countries.
The USITC process is ongoing. Syensqo will continue to participate in the process as the Commission considers the Initial Determination.
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Syensqo is a science company developing groundbreaking solutions that enhance the way we live, work, travel and play. Inspired by the scientific councils which Ernest Solvay initiated in 1911, we bring great minds together to push the limits of science and innovation for the benefit of our customers, with a diverse, global team of approximately 13,000 associates in 30 countries.
Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and consumer goods, planes, cars, batteries, smart devices and healthcare applications. Our innovation power enables us to deliver on the ambition of a circular economy and explore breakthrough technologies that advance humanity.
Learn more at www.syensqo.com.
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Solef® PVDF
Solef® PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) is a highly non-reactive thermoplastic fluoropolymer that is inherently flame retardant. It has a high degree of purity, robust mechanical properties, electrochemical stability, and broad chemical resistance at high temperatures. Protective coatings made using Solef PVDF offer improved weathering properties and excellent resistance to UV, radiation and aging. FDA-approved grades for food contact are available.