Asahi Kasei, a prominent Japanese company, has received the prestigious 2025 Imperial Invention Prize from the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation for its groundbreaking invention in the field of chlor-alkali electrolysis. The innovation involves a nickel-coated absorption layer that significantly extends the service life of electrodes in the electrolysis process, which is crucial for producing chlorine, caustic soda, and hydrogen using ion-exchange membranes. Since its introduction in 1975, this process has been widely adopted in over 160 plants across 30 countries. One of the major challenges faced by the chlor-alkali electrolysis process is cathode deterioration caused by reverse current, resulting in increased power consumption and reduced operational lifespan. Asahi Kasei's solution, a nickel-coated absorption layer, offers a chemical-based approach to prevent cathode degradation without relying on mechanical equipment, thus ensuring stable and long-term operation. The technology also overcomes the common issue of compromising porosity for strength in electrolyser operators. The innovative nickel-coated layer retains both porosity and strength, making it suitable for large-scale applications. The commercialization of this groundbreaking technology involved applying nickel to a substrate using thermal spraying, a process that forms a durable coating by melting the material and applying it to a surface. Key figures from Asahi Kasei, including Akiyasu Funakawa and Toshinori Hachiya, expressed their gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the significance of electrolysis technology in supporting daily products and the commitment to ongoing innovation within the company. Furthermore, the award-winning technology's success has led to its adoption by chemical manufacturers globally, with ongoing market expansion. Asahi Kasei is now exploring the potential applications of this technology in other electrolysis processes, including alkaline water electrolysis for green hydrogen production. The company's President, Koshiro Kudo, accepted the Imperial Invention Prize for Distinguished Contribution to Implementation, highlighting the company's dedication to sustainability and technological advancement.