Asahi Kasei to add SSBR capacity in Singapore

Singapore - Asahi Kasei is increasing the production capacity for solution-polymerised styrene-butadiene rubber (SSBR) at its plant in Jurong Island, Singapore, the Japanese company announced 24 July.

Under the new expansion plan, the facility’s production capacity will increase 30% to 130 kilotonnes per annum from its current 100ktpa by January 2019.

The company had previously announced that SSBR was a key strategic business in its Tomorrow 2018 medium-term management initiative.

According to Asahi Kasei, demand for tires with enhanced fuel-efficiency has been growing while tire production in emerging countries is increasing in line with greater motorisation.

The Japanese supplier said its materials had achieved “a high-level balance of braking performance and fuel efficiency while also improving abrasion resistance and handling stability characteristics, mainly with the continuous polymerisation process.”

The company also claimed that its SSBR has “a strong reputation among tire manufacturers” for  optimal materials.

Asahi Kasei has SSBR plants in Japan – Kanagawa and Oita prefectures – and Singapore.

The Singapore plant began operation in 2013 and produces the company’s latest high-performance grades.

Asahi Kasei said it will expand production at the facility while continuing development of better performing products.