LG Electronics is launching a marine ecosystem restoration project using functional materials that supply minerals essential for seaweed growth. This initiative aims to expand the application of these materials beyond environmental and social value, fostering a new B2B business strategy.
On August 20, LG Electronics announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding for the 'Sea Forest Creation Project' with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Gyeongsangnam-do, and the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency at LG Smart Park in Changwon.
Under the agreement, LG Electronics will apply its functional new material 'LG Marine Balance' to an area of approximately 1.5 square kilometers in Deokmyeong-ri, Goseong-gun, from 2026 to 2029. The government, local authorities, and public institutions will monitor seaweed growth and changes in the marine environment following the material's application.
LG Marine Balance is designed to release mineral ions upon contact with water, supplying essential components for the growth of seaweed and halophytes at a controlled rate. LG Electronics has developed technology to adjust not only the mineral composition and content but also the release rate to suit environmental conditions. The material can be produced in various forms, including beads and chips.
This project exemplifies LG Electronics' efforts to expand the environmental applications of its functional materials. The company has previously applied LG Marine Balance in the Nakdong River estuary wetlands in Busan and the Suncheon Bay tidal flats, demonstrating its effectiveness in coastal ecosystem restoration.
Recently, LG Electronics has been broadening its functional materials business from home appliance components to environmental and industrial materials, seeking new B2B demand. To support this growth, the company is enhancing its research and development and production capabilities. Since 1996, it has secured over 420 patents related to functional materials.
Production facilities have also been expanded both domestically and internationally. At LG Smart Park in Changwon, approximately 4,500 tons of functional materials are produced annually. Recently, a new production line capable of producing about 2,000 tons annually was added at the company's facility in Haiphong, Vietnam.
LG Electronics is also broadening the application areas of its functional materials. It supplies 'LG Purotech,' which is added to plastics, paints, and rubber to suppress odors and pollution caused by microorganisms. Additionally, it has developed 'LG Mineral Wash,' a raw material for inorganic detergents.
The company is pursuing a customized solution business that designs the components and properties of functional materials to meet customer demands. Through the Goseong Sea Forest project, LG Electronics aims to accelerate the transition of its materials business to B2B while expanding its environmental applications.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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