BASF will open a new Research and Development Laboratory and an Application Technology Center for Battery Materials in Amagasaki, Japan. The facilities will be fully operational by the end of 2013. The laboratory will focus on researching electrolytes and electrode materials for high-performance batteries as part of BASF's global R&D network. The Application Technology Center will aim to enhance service and to develop tailor-made solutions for the battery industry in Japan.

The first researchers will start their work at the new laboratory in April 2013. Until the end of 2013 new offices and labs located on a 600 square meter site will be utilized, with the option of growing further in the future. The total investment amount for the new Amagasaki facility is several million euros