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JSR to increase production capacity of S-SBR (solution polymerization styrene-butadiene rubber) and DYNARON (hydrogenated polymer)

PRODUCTS  07/30/2010
TOKYO - 30 July 2010 - JSR Corporation (Head office: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Mitsunobu Koshiba) has announced plans to increase the production of S-SBR (solution polymerization styrene-butadiene rubber) and DYNARON (hydrogenated polymer) at the Yokkaichi Plant by 25,000 tons to reach a capacity of 60,000 tons. In order to increase capacity, a production line will be newly built, which is scheduled for completion in November 2011.

S-SBR is a highly-functional synthetic rubber used mainly in tires and industrial applications. Due to the recent rise in environmental awareness around the world, as well as labeling regulations of tires in Japan and Europe, S-SBR for use in fuel-efficient tires has suddenly surged. Above all, JSR's S-SBR has excellent properties suited to fuel-efficient tires, and is highly-acclaimed both in Japan and abroad as a high-performing rubber. At present, production of S-SBR at the Yokkaichi Plant is continuing to operate at full capacity and the new production line built to increase capacity will enable JSR to meet increasing demand.

JSR also has an S-SBR production base in Europe and is undertaking commercial manufacture. It is expected that demand for S-SBR for use in fuel-efficient tires will further expand in Europe. By enhancing the Japan-Europe supply system in the coming future, JSR will actively move forward to globally expand the S-SBR business.

DYNARON is a hydrogenated polymer based on JSR's own polymerization catalyst technologies and is an outstanding polymer as a compatibilizing agent and modifying material for olefin-type resins (softens, transparent and prevents clouding). It is used in applications such as protective films for optical use and in the medical domain. In addition to these domains, DYNARON's properties as a modifying material are seeing recent use in the environment and energy domains. The material has been noted for its environmental properties (i.e. ability to be recycled) and increased demand for the polymer is expected in the forthcoming future. The increased production of DYNARON will enable an enhanced supply system.