BASF Acquires Nanowire Technology from Seashell

BASF Corporation and Seashell Technology, a nanotechnology company based in San Diego, announced in March that BASF has acquired Seashell’s technology, patents and know-how for silver nanowires. The acquisition 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 development of multiple application areas and uses for these unique materials,” said David Schultz, CEO of Seashell. “Seashell is excited to transfer the technology to BASF, which has the expertise and infrastructure to meet the growing demand for silver nanowires.”

“Seashell’s nanotechnology has long been regarded as best-in-class, and we are very excited to bring this technology platform to BASF,” said Lothar Laupichler, SVP, 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.”

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.