BASF acquires nanowire technology from Seashell

 

The American subsidiary of the leading German chemistry supplier BASF has acquired the technology, patents and know-how for silver nanowires by Seashell Technology, a nanotechnology company based in San Diego (CA), USA. The transaction extends BASF’s portfolio of solutions offered to the display industry through the company’s growing electronic materials unit.

“Seashell is an early pioneer in silver nanowire technology and has enabled the development of multiple application areas and uses for these unique materials,” explains David Schultz, CEO of Seashell. With unique properties such as higher conductivity and flexibility, silver nanowires are becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to indium tin oxide (ITO) for transparent conductive layers. Transparent conductors are widely used in today’s touch displays in consumer electronics such as mobile phones, tablets or all-in-one PCs.

“The nanotechnology from Seashell has long been regarded as best-in-class, and we are very excited to bring this technology platform to BASF,” adds Lothar Laupichler, senior vice president electronic materials at BASF. “We will build on this platform and develop innovative, efficient next generation silver nanowires tailored to the needs of our customers in the display industry and strengthen our recognition as a leader in the electronic materials industry.”