NIPPON KINZOKU Strengthens Promotion of "L-Core" as an Eco-Product: Functional Stainless Steel Achieving High Conductivity via Surface Modification

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While conventional stainless steel excels in corrosion resistance due to its "passive film," this same film typically acts as an electrical insulator. Consequently, components requiring conductivity have traditionally relied on high-cost nickel (Ni) plating or conductive tapes. L-Core solves this challenge by making the passive film itself conductive. This breakthrough ensures high conductivity in the material alone, streamlining the manufacturing process and achieving significant cost reductions alongside a lower environmental footprint.

By integrating high-performance characteristics directly into the base material, we enable customers to skip redundant processing steps and improve material yields. This approach not only streamlines manufacturing but also reduces the environmental footprint across the entire supply chain, driving progress toward a carbon-neutral society.

1. Technical Features: Formation of "Carrier Doping" (Conductive Pathways)

Using proprietary surface treatment technology, we form "carrier-doped" regions within the passive film that function as pathways for electricity.

• Balancing Conductivity and Corrosion Resistance: The film is modified without being destroyed, preserving the excellent corrosion resistance inherent to stainless steel.
• Eliminating Post-Processing: Since the material itself offers low resistance, it can be used for conductive components without additional steps like plating.

2. Performance Data: Superior Contact Resistance and Long-term Stability

L-Core demonstrates low contact resistance comparable to semi-bright Ni plating and maintains this performance even under harsh conditions.