Daicel Corporation Introduces Innovative DURACON® POM Line with 30% Recycled Content

Daicel Corporation Unveils New Range of DURACON® POM

In a bold move towards sustainability and performance, Daicel Corporation’s High Performance Polymers (HPPs) division has launched an innovative line of DURACON® polyoxymethylene (POM) products. Notably, this new lineup contains 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, setting a new benchmark for eco-friendly engineering plastics.

Having previously operated under the name Polyplastics Co., Ltd., Daicel Corporation is renowned for its leadership in engineering plastics. The introduction of the DURACON® POM with recycled content marks a significant stride in the company’s commitment to sustainability. The new POM grades include various formulations: standard, low VOC, sliding, and durable versions, allowing customers to select the material best suited for their specific applications.

The PCR-POM products were showcased for the first time at CHINAPLAS 2026 in Shanghai, an event that emphasized innovation in the plastics industry. The standard grade offers a melt flow index of 9, while the low VOC materials meet the stringent requirements set by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The sliding variants deliver superior sliding properties, and the durable options provide performance that rivals that of virgin POM grades.

Daicel has been proactive in recycling initiatives since 2023 through its DURACIRCLE® re-compounding service, which processes plastic waste from client facilities. This program initially focused on post-industrial recycling (PIR), utilizing manufacturing by-products. However, the new PCR-POM now utilizes POM that has already been employed in the market, further enhancing the sustainability credentials of the product.

One of the challenges faced in the introduction of PCR materials is the unpredictability of their properties and the need for consistent quality. With extensive experience in material formulation and robust quality control technologies, Daicel has assured that the mechanical properties of the new POM grades are comparable to those of conventional materials, even with the inclusion of 30% recycled content, as confirmed by internal testing.

The DURACON® POM series is widely recognized across various industrial sectors due to its high mechanical strength, rigidity, excellent wear resistance, and good sliding properties. It finds applications in critical areas such as gears, connectors, precision parts, and automotive components, showcasing its versatility and reliability.

Looking ahead, Daicel aims to expand its PCR-POM offerings to meet even broader customer needs. By investing in development and innovation, Daicel is committed to supporting sustainable practices within the industry, ensuring that high-performance materials do not come at the expense of environmental responsibilities.

For further details on this innovative product line, you can visit Daicel's dedicated site: DURACON® POM Overview.

About Daicel Corporation

Daicel Corporation's High Performance Polymers division is at the forefront of developing advanced materials designed for various industries, focusing on combining sustainability with excellence in performance. The DURACON® brand is trademarked and recognized globally, emphasizing the company's commitment to quality and innovation in engineering plastics.