Ascend, Samsung SDI reach settlement on Trinohex® Ultra patent invalidation proceedings

HOUSTON,March 18,2022 -- Ascend Performance Materials and Samsung SDI have reached an agreement to end their ongoing global patent invalidation proceedings and enter into a patent license agreement regarding the sale and use of lithium-ion battery additives. Such additives include 1,3,6-hexanetricarbonitrile (HTCN),which is manufactured and sold by Ascend as Trinohex® Ultra.

As part of the agreement,Samsung SDI retains its U.S. patent no. 9,819,057,continues to hold patents in any remaining jurisdictions and grants Ascend a non-exclusive license under these patents. The specific terms and conditions of the agreement remain confidential.

A unique,non-hazardous nitrile,Trinohex Ultra is used to significantly improve battery life,safety and overall performance across cathode chemistries and voltages,even in extreme conditions.

About Ascend Performance Materials

Ascend Performance Materials makes high-performance materials for everyday essentials and new technologies. Our focus is on improving quality of life and inspiring a better tomorrow through innovation. Based in Houston,Texas,and with regional offices in Shanghai,Brussels and Detroit,we are a fully integrated material solutions provider with global manufacturing facilities in the United States,Europe and China. Our 2,600-person global workforce makes the plastics,fabrics,fibers and chemicals used to make safer vehicles,cleaner energy,better medical devices,smarter appliances and longer-lasting apparel and consumer goods. We are committed to safety,sustainability and the success of our customers and our communities.

Learn more about Ascend at www.ascendmaterials.com.

Contact: Ally Jahn,+1 713-210-9809,ajahn@ascendmaterials.com