Arkema has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against HighChem Co., Ltd. in Japan concerning the import and sale of HFO-1233zd(E), a fluorinated compound used in refrigeration and foam applications. The lawsuit was filed on July 21, 2026, before the Tokyo District Court.
Arkema is seeking an injunction against HighChem’s import and sale, among other acts, of HFO-1233zd(E), also known as trans-1-chloro-3,3,3-trifluoropropene.
The action asserts two Japanese patents held by Arkema Inc. Japanese Patent No. 6149000 relates to blowing agents for thermosetting foams such as polyurethane foams, while Japanese Patent No. 6205392 relates to heat transfer fluid compositions used as refrigerants.
The case is registered as Reiwa 8 (Wa) No. 170625. Arkema said it intends to continue taking measures, including legal action, to protect its intellectual property rights.
Arkema offers fluorinated solutions for refrigeration, thermal management, insulation and specialty applications, including technologies intended to support lower-GWP applications.