Korean Patent Court invalidates three Aspen Aerogels patents
Korean Patent Court has invalidated three patents held by Aspen Aerogels in a patent case involving Beerenberg. Aspen Aerogels’ patents covered improved hydrophobic aerogel material, an insulation material designed to resist moisture. According to Beerenberg, the ruling confirms that Beerenberg did not infringe Aspen Aerogels’ patents. Korean Patent Court also upheld the earlier conclusion of the Intellectual Property Trial and Appeal Board, known as IPTAB. IPTAB found that the three Aspen Aerogels patents did not meet the necessary requirements for patentability. Following IPTAB’s finding, Korean Patent Court reached the same conclusion and invalidated the three patents. Beerenberg, which specialises in high-end insulation products, welcomed the court’s decision in South Korea. Chief executive Arild Apelthun says: “We are pleased that the case has now been concluded and that any uncertainty regarding the infringement claims has been removed.”
IPTAB finding upheld in South Korea
As a result, Beerenberg no longer faces the same patent risk linked to the three hydrophobic aerogel patents.
Aspen Aerogels’ case centred on patentability as well as alleged infringement by Beerenberg. However, Korean Patent Court focused on whether the Aspen Aerogels patents met the standards needed for legal protection.
Beerenberg delivers high-end insulation solutions built for performance, reliability and long-term value. Beerenberg has supplied cost-efficient solutions to industrial enterprises for 49 years.
On the Norwegian Continental Shelf, Beerenberg is one of the leading suppliers of maintenance and modification services. Beerenberg also acts as a global provider of robotic services and insulation products.
Across the petroleum industry, Beerenberg covers field studies, newbuilds, maintenance, modifications and lifetime extensions. Meanwhile, Beerenberg’s insulation work remains part of its wider industrial services for petroleum customers.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:45 am
