Asahi Kasei to expand styrenic thermoplastic elastomer capacity in Japan

Asahi Kasei Chemicals will increase annual production capacity for hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (SEBS) by 30 percent at its Kawasaki Works in Kanagawa, Japan, with start-up scheduled for June 2016. Thermoplastic elastomers have elasticity approaching that of rubber but are also easy to mould by thermoplastic processes. SEBS, which is a type of hydrogenated elastomer, is used as a plastic modifier which imparts various performance characteristics to plastics in which it is blended.
 
The expansion of performance polymer operations is a key element in the strategy of Asahi Kasei Chemicals to develop as a high-earnings chemical company. The company’s synthetic rubber and elastomer business is positioned as a competitively superior area, with proactive expansion focused on high-function and high-value added products. In particular, SOE and Tuftec SEBS are high-performance and high-value added elastomers featuring excellent weatherability, heat resistance, and anti-abrasion properties made possible by the original catalyst and polymerisation process technologies of Asahi Kasei Chemicals. They are used in a wide range of applications including plastic modification and adhesives, earning high regard from customers around the world.
 
SEBS is used as a modifier that enables polypropylene to be made flexible while maintaining transparency, and there are growing needs for flexible material as a substitute for polyvinyl chloride, especially in medical applications. Demand growth for this particular application has been centred in Europe and China in recent years. To meet growing demand, Asahi Kasei Chemicals increased production capacity for styrenic thermoplastic elastomer at its Kawasaki Works by 20 percent this spring. As continued demand growth is forecasted, the company decided to further increase production capacity by 30 percent.
 
By enhancing its production infrastructure through these capacity increases, Asahi Kasei Chemicals will reinforce its ability to provide customers with a swift and reliable supply even as the market for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) substitute materials continues to expand. The company will continue to enhance its supply system while further heightening product quality to ensure that diversifying customer needs are met.