18 May 2023
Partners with Japan's Idemitsu and Sumitomo Corp. to manufacture polymers based on bio-styrene monomer
Seoul – Kumho Petrochemical has joined forces with styrene monomer manufacturer Idemitsu, and Sumitomo Corp. to create a ‘bio-material’ supply chain, with a particular focus on tire rubber.
The trio have signed a ‘long-term’ memorandum of understanding to develop and further grow sustainable polymers and chemicals in Asia, said a Sumitomo statement 17 May.
As part of the project, Idemitsu will produce bio-based styrene monomer, based on the mass balance method.
Kumho Petrochemical will then produce bio-solution styrene butadiene rubber (SSBR), a key material for high-functional tires, using bio-styrene monomer.
Sumitomo Corp. will be “coordinating the collaboration and developing bio material market,” the statement added.
The companies plan to start the manufacturing of the bio-polymers in 2024, said the statement without providing the scale of production.
The bio-based styrene monomer will be manufactured from bio-naphtha, derived from bio-based raw material such as waste and residues.
The switch to bio-based styrene monomer is expected to reduce end-users’ carbon and greenhouse gas emissions, the statement added.
Subscribe for unlimited access. A subscription to European Rubber Journal includes:
Already a subscriber? Log in here
