Isoprene Chemicals Division

Using the C4 fraction that is a by-product of naphtha cracking as the primary raw material and applying its proprietary technology, Kuraray is developing a unique C4 derivative. Specifically, the Company is developing its fine chemicals business, which encompasses commodity chemicals, functional specialty chemicals, aroma chemicals, raw materials of cosmetics, and pharmaceutical and agricultural chemical intermediates. Kuraray is the world's sole source for a number of chemicals.

History and Manufacturing Facilities

The division has manufacturing facilities at the Kashima Plant (Ibaraki Prefecture) and the Niigata Plant (Niigata Prefecture).

Kashima Plant

Constructed and commenced operations in 1972 on the grounds of the Kashima Complex.
In addition to isoprene monomers, the plant manufactures commodity chemicals such as solvents and industrial alcohols, and specialty chemicals such as diols.

Niigata Plant

Since 1977 the Niigata Plant has been producing various fine chemical products.

Issues and Objectives

Kuraray has succeeded in becoming first in the world to commercialize a one-step synthesis method for isoprene monomers, and offers products made using various C4 derivatives and cyanide derivatives, employing its accumulated technological expertise to provide products that are cost competitive and characteristic worldwide.