#Japan #Kurashiki #Zeon Corporation #Cycloolefin Polymer #DCPD

Expansion of Cycloolefin Polymer Production at Zeon

In a strategic move to strengthen its C5 business, Zeon Corporation, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has decided to enhance production capacities for cycloolefin polymer (COP) and its core raw material, dicyclopentadiene (DCPD). This investment will see new equipment added to the GPI plant at the Mizushima factory in Kurashiki, Okayama. The enhancements are expected to increase DCPD production capacities by approximately 20%, allowing for stable supply without raising production volumes of other raw materials such as piperylene.

This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for products derived from COP, particularly COP-based optical films, which have been identified as vital growth drivers in Zeon's mid-term management plan, STAGE30. The investment also focuses on utilizing previously untapped components, thereby contributing to a reduction in CO2 emissions.

The Mizushima factory is Zeon's core facility, having begun operations in 1969 as a comprehensive utilization plant for C5 fractions using the GPI method. The plant specializes in the production of effective components such as isoprene, DCPD, piperylene, and 2-butyne, which are vital across various sectors including synthetic rubber, COP, petroleum resins, and synthetic fragrances.

DCPD serves as a critical raw material not only for COP but also for high-margin products such as RIM formulations. Specifically, the growth prospects for COP have prompted extensive evaluations on securing raw materials. Through the establishment of technologies that leverage previously unused components, Zeon has made it possible to ensure a stable supply of raw materials without the need to increase C5 fraction procurement.

Moreover, this new method is expected to yield significant reductions in CO2 emissions compared to extraction from C5 fractions, thus supporting carbon neutrality initiatives. By promoting a portfolio reshuffle through