Kuraray plans to build new liquid rubber plant in U.S.

TOKYO—Kuraray Co. Ltd. aims to build a new plant for liquid rubber in the U.S. under a strategic capital investment program, according to its 2022 annual report.

The planned project is included within the Japanese company's "Passion 2026" capital investment program, totaling almost $2.89 billion (¥380 billion) over a cumulative five-year period.

Kuraray's U.S. operations include a plant for the production of styrenic thermoplastic elastomers at a site in Pasadena, Texas, started in 2002.

In its report for fiscal 2021, ended Dec. 31, 2021, Kuraray also signaled further development of liquid rubber made from biomass-derived materials among its strategic sustainability goals.

Kuraray defines its liquid rubber materials as high-viscosity synthetic rubbers based on isoprene, butadiene and styrene, which are colorless, transparent, almost entirely odorless and low-VOC.

Applications include tires, belts, hoses, rubber goods, footwear, adhesives, coatings, sealants, additives for asphalt, lubricants, bonding agents and reactive plasticizers.

Other strategic goals include strengthening the global supply system for Septon styrenic thermoplastic elastomers, the company stated in its 2022 report.

Kuraray is also targeting development and expanded sales of high value-added elastomer products made from sustainable raw materials.