Expansion of Styrenic Elastomer Compound Manufacturing Capacity (Kuraray Plastics Co., Ltd.)
In response to expanding demand, Kuraray Plastics has decided to increase its manufacturing capacity for styrenic elastomer compound. (Production capacity of 2,500 tons is to be added for a total planned manufacturing capacity after expansion of 5,000 tons annually by March 2008)
Styrenic elastomer compound is a "ready-to-mold material" that combines olefin resins, process oil and various additives with styrenic elastomer as the base resin.
Kuraray Plastics is manufacturing styrenic elastomer compound primarily by using hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers (trademark: SEPTON) developed by Kuraray Co., Ltd.
SEPTON based elastomer compound has superior weather resistance with wide range of rubber elasticity and is currently used as a soft material extensively in such applications as automobile interiors, home electronics, electronics components, home building materials, sporting goods, as well as in such common objects as toys, industrial tools and writing implements.
Demand for styrenic elastomer compound is expected to increase in such applications as food containers and sealing material for precision electronic devices, as well as in soft touch grips.
Kuraray Plastics is developing materials that possess functionalities suited to user needs such as styrenic elastomer compound with specifically improved adhesion, abrasion and heat resistance, innovative soft biomass plastic, and new, high-value-added materials developed by Kuraray Co., Ltd.
Feature of SEPTON based Compound
- Rubber elasticity with excellent tensile strength
- Outstanding low-temperature property
- Superior thermal degradation, weather and ozone resistance to that of vulcanized rubbers
- Easy processing (injection, extrusion, blow molding, etc.)
- Recyclable
- Because of transparent or translucent color, it can be made into any colors, and is especially suitable for bright colors
- Can be made 30-40% lighter than vulcanized rubbers
Overview of Capital Investments by Kuraray Plastics Co., Ltd.
| Location | Ibuki Plant (4330 Osa, Tarui-cho, Fuwa-gun, Gifu Prefecture) | ||||||
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| Production capacity |
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| Capital investment | Approx. ¥300 million |
Kuraray Plastics Co., Ltd.
| Headquarters | 1-12-39 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka (Shin-Hankyu Building, 9F) |
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| President | Katsuhiko Kishi |
| Capital | ¥108 million |
| Number of employees | 194 (as of March 31, 2007) |
| Business activities | Manufacture, processing and sales of rubber, plastic hose, various molded components, conduit tubing, laminated products, SEPTON compound and other molded items |