EPO published patent EP3929158A1 for Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd., covering a positive electrode active material for lithium ion secondary batteries and the method for producing the same. The patent, effective March 25, 2026, names Haruki Kaneda and Yuki Koshika as inventors and is classified under multiple IPC codes related to battery technology and electrode materials. The designated states cover 34 European countries including Germany, France, UK, Italy, and Spain.

Patent publications are informational announcements and do not impose compliance obligations on third parties. Companies developing lithium ion battery technology should review the patent claims to assess potential licensing needs or freedom-to-operate implications for their products. The patent becomes enforceable upon grant in designated states following national phase entry.