Written on 03.01.2013 - Industry
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Kuraray to expand LIR capacity

Kuraray has announced plans to expand the liquid rubber production capacity at its Kashima plant in Japan. The capacity will be increased by 7,000 t/y. The company said that demand for liquid rubber is robustly growing for such applications as performance tires. In addition, Kuraray aims to expand its isoprene-derivatives business, which is one of the group’s core businesses. Simultaneously, Kuraray is promoting the development of an innovative, bio-based Liquid Farnesene Rubber (LFR) for tire applications that it intends for full-scale release.

LIR improves the processability of tire materials without much deterioration of the mechanical properties because of its crosslink ability to rubbers. Also, liquid rubber may enhance tire performance such as grip performance and fuel economy. Liquid rubber is virtually odorless because it contains few residual monomers or solvents. In the manufacture rubber products, it can shorten the kneading time and helps saving energy. There are types available with low molecular weight (6,000) to one with a high molecular weight (50,000).

Operational kickoff is scheduled for July 2014.