Crystal IS, Inc. and Asahi Kasei Announce Joint Development Agreement

Japanese industrial enterprise makes strategic investment in Crystal IS

GREEN ISLAND, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Crystal IS, Inc., the leading developer of ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UVC LEDs), and Asahi Kasei Corp., the parent company of one of Japan’s major diversified industrial groups, today announced the signing of a joint development agreement. Under the agreement the two companies will create a manufacturing process for large diameter aluminum nitride (AlN) substrates based on Crystal IS proprietary intellectual property.

“After a comprehensive study, we found Crystal IS wafer technology the most advanced and suitable for commercialization”

“Aluminum nitride substrates are a critical component in the fabrication of UVC LEDs for energy efficient water and air sterilization applications,” said Dr. Steven Berger CEO of Crystal IS. “Building on our intellectual property to develop manufacturable large diameter substrates is an important step towards high-volume production and long term growth.”

The development will take place at the Crystal IS facility in Green Island, NY and the program will run in parallel with the company’s UVC LED activities.

“After a comprehensive study, we found Crystal IS wafer technology the most advanced and suitable for commercialization,” said Masafumi Nakao, who heads Asahi Kasei’s development of new business in compound semiconductors. “To reinforce our commitment to Crystal IS and the technology, we are happy to make a $2 million investment in the company as we assess the long-term market potential of these substrates for LEDs and a number of other high-power applications.”

About Crystal IS

Crystal IS, Inc. is the market leader in the commercialization of ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UVC LEDs) on aluminum nitride substrates for the cost-effective production of long lasting, energy efficient, water and air purification devices. Visit www.crystal-is.com for more information.

About Asahi Kasei

Asahi Kasei is the holding company of the Asahi Kasei Group, one of Japan’s largest diversified industrial enterprises. Its electronics business includes Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corp., one of the world’s largest compound semiconductor manufacturers.

For press or business inquiries, please contact CEO Steven Berger at [e-mail].