Asahi Kasei Chemicals Corp. will increase annual production capacity for hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (SEBS) by 30 percent at its Kawasaki production site in Kanagawa, Japan.
The start-up is scheduled for June 2016, announced the company on July 10, adding that the project was part of its development strategy.
The company said that the new capacity was being developed to meet the growing demand for SEBS for medical applications in Europe and China.
Asahi Kasei Chemicals already increased production capacity for SEBS at its Kawasaki site by 20 percent this spring.
“As continued demand growth is forecasted, the company decided to further increase production capacity by 30 percent,” its statement explained.
The company said that its synthetic rubber and elastomer business had a policy of proactive expansion, focused on high-function and high-value added products.
“In particular, Tuftec and SOE. SEBS are high-performance and high-value added elastomers featuring excellent weatherability, heat resistance, and anti-abrasion properties,” said Asahi Kasaei.