Chemetall, a leading provider of innovative surface treatment solutions and the global surface treatment business unit of BASF Coatings, has entered into a strategic partnership with Londian Wason (Shenzhen) Holdings Group Co., (Londian Wason), a global leader in new energy and electronic materials and one of the largest producers of lithium battery copper foil.

Through this agreement, the two companies will collaborate on the innovation and large-scale application of Chemetall’s newly launched Gardolene D, the industry’s first chromium-free and fluoride-free passivation technology for copper foils. This partnership marks a major milestone in Chemetall’s commitment to advancing sustainable technologies that support the accelerating green transformation driven by electric mobility and renewable energy development, particularly in China and across the Asia-Pacific region.

Londian Wason becomes the first customer in China to adopt Gardolene D technology, underscoring Chemetall’s leadership in surface treatment innovation. “Londian Wason is the first customer in China to use our new Gardolene D technology, proving our leading position in the surface treatment industry,” said Frank Naber, Senior Vice President, Global Surface Treatment, BASF Coatings. “This innovation enhances the performance of electric vehicles and energy storage systems while supporting our partners in achieving their sustainability goals.”

Guangling Zhou, CEO of Londian Wason Group, emphasized the strength of the collaboration: “By combining Chemetall’s global expertise in surface treatment with Londian Wason’s two decades of technical leadership in copper foil manufacturing, we are driving breakthrough technology and sustainability to shape the future of the industry.”

Evelyn Shen, Vice President of Chemetall Asia Pacific, added, “China is the world’s largest market for electric vehicles and a global powerhouse in battery production. Our partnership with Londian Wason enhances our regional footprint and accelerates the adoption of sustainable technologies that meet evolving market demands. Chemetall remains committed to creating value for customers by delivering innovative and environmentally responsible surface treatment solutions in growth markets such as China and the broader Asia-Pacific region.”

Gardolene D represents a major step forward in surface treatment technology. As the first global chromium-free and fluoride-free passivation solution for copper foils, it offers superior corrosion protection, improved adhesion of anode active materials, and reduced electrical resistivity, resulting in higher battery efficiency. Batteries treated with Gardolene D demonstrate extended lifespans and up to a 6 per cent increase in capacity retention after 1,000 cycles at 25°C compared to those using traditional chromium (VI) passivation.