UBE invests in CheomdanLab to advance sustainable silicon nitride production, supporting EV growth, recycling innovation, and next-generation materials commercialization globally.
UBE Corp. has announced a strategic investment in CheomdanLab Inc., a South Korean startup based in Gwangju that specializes in the development and production of silicon nitride (Si3N4) powder and ceramic balls. This move reflects UBE’s continued commitment to expanding its portfolio of advanced materials through collaboration and innovation-driven partnerships.
CheomdanLab has developed a proprietary sintered-after-reaction-bonded silicon nitride (SRBSN) technology, which enables the recycling and upcycling of silicon waste generated by semiconductor manufacturing and other industrial processes. By converting this waste into high-performance silicon nitride materials, the company offers a more energy-efficient and cost-effective production method compared to conventional manufacturing techniques. This approach not only reduces waste but also aligns with global sustainability goals by minimizing resource consumption and environmental impact.
Silicon nitride ceramic balls produced using this technology are known for their exceptional mechanical strength, thermal stability, and resistance to wear and corrosion. These properties make them highly suitable for demanding applications in industries such as electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy systems, and precision machinery. In particular, their use in high-speed rotating components and high-temperature environments has made them increasingly valuable in modern engineering applications.
The electric vehicle sector represents a significant growth opportunity for silicon nitride components. Bearings made from silicon nitride help prevent electrical corrosion, a common issue in EV motors caused by stray electrical currents. As the global transition toward electrified mobility accelerates, the demand for such advanced materials is expected to rise substantially. This trend further strengthens the strategic importance of CheomdanLab’s technology and production capabilities.
UBE’s investment aligns with its broader research and development strategy, which emphasizes the creation of competitive technologies through open innovation. By partnering with startups and leveraging external expertise, UBE aims to establish new specialty businesses that can drive long-term growth. The collaboration with CheomdanLab is particularly significant because it supports the development of a sustainable supply chain for advanced materials, an area of increasing importance in the global manufacturing landscape.
Through this investment, UBE plans to assist CheomdanLab in scaling up its mass production capabilities and accelerating the commercialization of its silicon nitride products. The partnership is expected to generate mutual benefits, enabling both companies to strengthen their technological foundations and expand their market presence.
This investment also follows UBE’s recent initiative to support a United Kingdom-based startup focused on carbon capture technology, highlighting the company’s ongoing efforts to invest in environmentally responsible innovations. Together, these initiatives demonstrate UBE’s strategic focus on sustainability, advanced materials, and future-oriented industrial solutions.
