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Asahi Kasei to hike Kawasaki plant SEBS capacity by 30%

13 Jul '15

2 min read

Asahi Kasei Chemicals will raise production capacity for hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (SEBS) by 30 per cent at its Kawasaki plant with start-up scheduled for June 2016.

In a press release, it said, 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.

It markets SEBS like Tuftec and S.O.E, which deliver high-performance and high-value added and also feature excellent weatherability, heat resistance, and anti-abrasion properties.

According to Asahi Kasei Chemicals, these SEBS are used in a wide range of applications including plastic modification and adhesives.

SEBS is used as a modifier that enables polypropylene to be made flexible while maintaining transparency and is also used as a substitute for polyvinyl chloride, especially in medical applications.

“Demand growth for this particular application has been centered in Europe and China in recent years,” it,” the Japanese company added.

To meet growing demand, Asahi Kasei Chemicals increased production capacity for SEBS at its Kawasaki Works by 20 per cent this spring.

As continued demand growth is forecasted, the company decided to further increase production capacity by 30 per cent.

By enhancing production, Asahi Kasei informed that it will reinforce its ability to provide customers with a swift and reliable supply even as the market for polyvinyl chloride 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,” it observed. (AR)

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