Kuraray (Tokyo / Japan; www.kuraray.co.jp) has started production at its new 40,000 t/y PVOH plant in Pasadena, Texas / USA, which was officially inaugurated in May this year. When the company first announced plans for the USD 300m facility in 2013, it expected start-up to take place in 2014 (see Plasteurope.com of 15.04.2013). The site’s 100 employees will focus on producing “Kuraray Poval”, which is used in a variety of applications, including film. The biodegradable material is characterised by water solubility, adhesive strength and oil-resistance, among others.

Plasteurope.com’s Polyglobe capacity database (www.polyglobe.net) shows that with overall nameplate capacity for 300,000 t/y, Kuraray is the world’s largest producer of polyvinyl alcohol. Its Kuraray America subsidiary operates three plants in the Houston, Texas area, including a 335,000 t/y VAM facility in Deer Park.