Kaneka to increase production capacities for Kaneka MS Polymer™ in Westerlo, Belgium

Westerlo, Belgium – May 29, 2017 – Kaneka Corporation (Osaka, Japan), significantly increases its production capacities of modified silicone polymers (product name: Kaneka MS Polymer™) in Europe at its Kaneka Belgium plant, located in Westerlo. Kaneka MS Polymer™ is a base resin for high-quality sealants, adhesives, and coatings.

The production expansion of Kaneka Belgium NV for MS polymers will involve an investment of about 34 million euro. The project includes the construction of a new production line and a loading dock system alongside the canal adjacent to the plant, optimizing the supply chain of the main raw material. Full operation of the new production facility is scheduled for end 2018. With this new investment in Europe, aligned with previous investments in US, Malaysia and Japan, Kaneka will further strengthen its global supply structure.

Thanks to its innovative portfolio and excellent properties, Kaneka MS Polymer™ is used in a broad variety of markets, such as construction, industry, transportation, flooring, waterproofing, DIY, and many others. Moreover, the ecologically sound character of the product is highly valued on international markets. Kaneka’s MS Polymers do not contain isocyanates nor solvents, and as such fully comply with the regulatory VOC emission standards.

“Over the next few years we expect that Kaneka MS Polymer™ will continue to penetrate new markets and as such its demand will grow faster, both in Europe and worldwide. By expanding the production capacities we respond to this increase in demand and strengthen our global supply position as a top manufacturer,” explains Olivier Renson, General Manager of Performance Polymers Solutions Vehicle EMEA. “We are committed to offering our customers innovative products that enable them to develop sustainable solutions,” underlines Renson.

About Kaneka Belgium NV

Founded in 1970, Kaneka Belgium NV was the first overseas subsidiary of the Japanese chemical company Kaneka Corporation. Traditionally Kaneka Belgium has been active in the field of functional and foamed plastics. Headquarters and plant are located in Westerlo, Belgium where three production sites are operational for high performance MBS and acrylic polymers (Kane Ace™), liquid polymers (Kaneka MS Polymer™) and light weight expandable plastics (Eperan™). By embracing research and science, its innovative and safe technologies benefit many aspects of people’s daily lives and contribute to a better ecosystem.

About Kaneka Corporation

Kaneka Corporation, established in 1949, is a leading technology-driven chemical company, headquartered in Osaka and Tokyo, Japan. Kaneka provides diversified products, globally supported by a worldwide manufacturing and marketing organization. Its business activities span a broad spectrum of markets, ranging from chemicals, food products, synthetic fibers, and life science to electrical and electronic materials. Kaneka Corporation has overseas subsidiaries in Belgium, Germany, the United States, Brazil, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, India, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, and South-Korea. To strengthen its governance systems, Kaneka has three regional holding companies in Asia, the Americas, and Europe. Worldwide, Kaneka employs 9,500 people.

For more information, please visit

http://www.kaneka.be

http://www.kaneka.co.jp

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