W. L. Gore & Associates Opens New Battery Lab in Shanghai
On November 25, 2025, W. L. Gore & Associates celebrated the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Battery Lab in Shanghai, China. This facility marks a significant expansion of Gore's global research and development capabilities, aimed at accelerating the innovation of advanced battery materials for clients worldwide.
The primary mission of the new lab is to enhance the development, characterization, and rigorous testing of critical materials used in battery cells and packs. This includes essential innovations in membranes, ventilation solutions, and thermal management, all geared toward improving performance and safety in battery technology. The lab offers customized, integrated solutions for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics. With its capabilities, the lab facilitates faster iterations and a shorter path from prototype to market.
Advancing Materials Science for Battery Technology
Gore is a global leader in materials science, and this new lab embodies its commitment to turning materials science into a catalyst for global sustainability. The Shanghai facility will expedite the commercialization of Gore's groundbreaking technologies, such as dry electrodes and innovative process methodologies. By utilizing advanced membrane materials and process innovations, Gore is well-positioned to provide comprehensive solutions for lithium-ion batteries, including explosion protection, thermal leak prevention, pressure equalization, and gas venting. This significantly enhances both the safety and stability of battery systems.
With decades of automotive industry experience, Gore is recognized as a pioneer in ventilation and humidity management technologies. Its comprehensive solutions are extensively used in critical automotive components, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), automotive electronics, powertrains, chassis, lighting, and battery systems. By addressing industry pain points with proven reliability and efficiency, Gore enables OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to achieve advancements in safety, durability, and system integration.
A Collaborative Ecosystem for Sustainable Battery Development
As the demand for performance and safety in batteries escalates across electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and consumer electronics, the Gore Battery Lab in Shanghai serves as a pivotal hub. The facility connects Gore’s global technical resources with local customer needs, offering an extensive range of services from material development to testing and validation. This fosters close collaboration with OEMs, promoting mutual evolution in cell processes, pack design, and vehicle integration.
Yong Zhao, Business Leader for Automotive Ventilation in the Asia Pacific region, emphasized that, "By integrating global resources and strengthening local R&D capabilities, Gore provides agile responses and customized material solutions to propel the sustainable growth of Chinese clients in global markets."
Dr. Justin Skaife, the Chief Technology Officer of Gore’s Performance Solutions division, reiterated, "Gore's cross-industry expertise in automotive and electronics allows us to develop innovative solutions for next-generation battery systems. We look forward to collaborating with clients in China and worldwide to drive collaborative innovation and sustainable progress in battery technology."
Gore's Performance Solutions Division tackles complex product and process challenges across various markets, including aerospace, automotive, industrial, electronics, and semiconductors. By focusing on collaboration and innovation, Gore partners with customers to design products and processes that are safer, cleaner, more productive, reliable, durable, and efficient in demanding environments.