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FDK Corporation's Initiative for Global Battery Standards

In the dynamic field of battery technology, FDK Corporation, under the leadership of CEO Yoshiyoshi Nagano, is making significant strides in promoting international standards and guidelines for batteries through its active membership in the Battery Association of Japan (BAJ). Recently, the hard work and dedication of FDK's team have been recognized with the prestigious BAJ Activity Award. This accolade coincides with the release of guidelines related to the reuse and repurposing of secondary batteries, based on the IEC 63338 standards set forth by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

Background on FDK's Commitment to Battery Standards

As a responsible player in the battery industry, FDK is committed to advancing international standards concerning batteries. The recent recognition from BAJ highlights the company's ongoing efforts to contribute to standardization in battery technology, showcasing its dedication to enhancing the safety, sustainability, and competitiveness of batteries worldwide.

Guidelines for Reusing and Repurposing Secondary Batteries

One of the recent developments in this field is the introduction of guidelines for the reuse and repurposing of secondary batteries, particularly lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride batteries. In response to increasing demands for resource conservation and CO2 reduction, there has been a growing emphasis on lifecycle thinking and environmentally conscious design. Reusing and repurposing batteries has emerged as an effective strategy in this context.

The guidelines published by BAJ are founded on the IEC 63338 standard, which is expected to be formally issued in August 2024. This standard provides essential guidance for the safe and efficient reuse and repurposing of secondary batteries, ensuring they are utilized responsibly while minimizing environmental impacts.

For those interested in the specifics of these guidelines, more information can be found on the BAJ website: BAJ Secondary Battery Reuse and Repurpose Guidelines.

Recognition of FDK Employees' Contributions

Two outstanding employees of FDK—Hirohito Teraoka and Yukiko Aiba—have been instrumental in the development of the IEC 63338 standard. Their contributions were crucial in enhancing the international competitiveness of Japanese manufacturers of secondary batteries.

• - Hirohito Teraoka, a leader in the Technology Development Department, played a key role as the convenor of Working Group 6 within the IEC SC21A committee. His leadership has been vital in shaping international standards for nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and lithium-ion secondary batteries.
• - Yukiko Aiba, also from the Technology Development Department, served as the project leader for IEC 63338 and emphasized the importance of formal agreements between original battery manufacturers and reuse/repurpose operators. This effort aims to uphold the integrity of the manufacturing processes and ensure that liability is appropriately assigned, preventing unintended consequences from reuse practices.

About the Battery Association of Japan (BAJ)

The BAJ is an organization dedicated to promoting research and development related to batteries and battery devices. Their work focuses on environmental preservation, resource recycling, standardization, quality performance, and product safety. By facilitating the healthy development of the battery industry and related sectors, BAJ contributes significantly to improving the quality of life for the public and ensuring safety in everyday life.
You can learn more about BAJ here: Battery Association of Japan.

In conclusion, FDK Corporation's commitment to the standardization of battery technologies demonstrates its role as a leader in the industry, striving towards sustainability and innovation. These efforts not only align with global environmental objectives but also enhance the quality standards of batteries used across various sectors, ultimately benefiting consumers and industries alike.