Asahi Kasei and Partners Launch Metal Recycling Project for Electrolyzers in Chlor-Alkali Industry
In February 2025, Japanese technology company Asahi Kasei initiated a collaborative demonstration project with Nobian, Furuya Metal, and Mastermelt to recycle precious metals from electrolyzer components used in the chlor-alkali industry. This initiative aims to establish a sustainable recycling ecosystem for valuable metals, such as iridium and ruthenium, which are integral to the production of caustic soda and chlorine.
Background and Objectives
Asahi Kasei has been a leader in chlor-alkali electrolysis technology for nearly five decades, supplying ion-exchange membranes, electrolysis cells, and electrodes globally. The chlor-alkali process involves electrolyzing brine to produce chlorine, hydrogen, and caustic soda, essential chemicals in various industries. Precious metals like iridium and ruthenium are used in the electrodes of electrolyzers, but their scarcity and increasing demand necessitate efficient recycling methods.MarketScreener
The joint project focuses on collecting end-of-life electrodes from Nobian’s facilities. These electrodes are then processed by Mastermelt and Furuya Metal to extract and purify the precious metals. Asahi Kasei utilizes the recovered metals to produce new catalysts, which are applied to coat new electrodes. These recycled electrodes are then used by Nobian in brine electrolysis, completing the recycling loop.
Advancing Circular Economy and Sustainability
This collaboration represents a significant step towards a circular economy in the chlor-alkali industry. By recycling precious metals from used electrolyzer components, the project reduces reliance on virgin materials, lowers environmental impact, and promotes resource efficiency. It also aligns with global efforts to minimize waste and greenhouse gas emissions in chemical manufacturing processes.
Yoshifumi Kado, Senior General Manager of Asahi Kasei’s Ion Exchange Membrane & Electrolysis System Division, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “By combining the expertise of Asahi Kasei, Nobian, Furuya Metal, and Mastermelt, we will be able to garner even more value from the important precious metals used in electrolyzer technology while transforming sustainability goals into practical, scalable outcomes.”
Integration with AlkaNexus Brand
This recycling project complements Asahi Kasei’s AlkaNexus brand, launched in late 2024. AlkaNexus offers integrated solutions for the chlor-alkali industry, including advanced data analysis, plant operations optimization, and membrane technologies. The brand aims to provide comprehensive support for sustainable and efficient chemical production.
Future Implications
The successful implementation of this recycling initiative could serve as a model for other industries reliant on precious metals. It demonstrates the feasibility of creating closed-loop systems that enhance sustainability and resource conservation. As the demand for green technologies and sustainable practices grows, such collaborative efforts will be crucial in driving industry-wide transformations.
The joint project by Asahi Kasei, Nobian, Furuya Metal, and Mastermelt marks a significant advancement in sustainable practices within the chlor-alkali industry. By establishing a recycling ecosystem for precious metals used in electrolyzers, the initiative not only addresses resource scarcity but also contributes to environmental conservation and the promotion of a circular economy.
