- Kaneka is investing JPY 2 billion to expand production capacity by 50%.
- The expansion will be operational by spring 2019.
- The focus is on Eperan® and Eperan-PP® polyolefin particle foam products.
- The demand is driven by the automotive sector's shift to lightweight materials.
Investment and Expansion
Kaneka Corporation is investing approximately JPY 2 billion to expand its production facilities for Eperan® and Eperan-PP® polyolefin particle foam products at Kaneka Belgium N.V. This expansion will increase production capacity by about 50% and is scheduled to be operational by spring 2019.
Market Demand
The expansion is driven by strong demand in Europe, particularly for automotive applications. The UK and France have announced bans on petrol and diesel cars from 2040, promoting the shift to electric vehicles. This has led automobile manufacturers to seek lightweight materials to extend cruising distances.
Product Benefits
Polyolefin foam products like Eperan® and Eperan-PP® are lightweight and offer excellent impact resistance, making them ideal for automotive applications. The market for these materials is expected to continue growing as the automotive industry increasingly adopts electric vehicles.
Future Outlook
Kaneka plans to enhance its production capacity and launch high-performance products based on its unique technologies. This strategy aims to provide solutions for reducing vehicle weight and improving safety, ultimately expanding the company's business in the automotive sector.
