Asahi Kasei: New alternative for flexible PVC
Asahi Kasei is to begin commercial production of its SOE-SS series of ‘super-olefinic elastomers’, which can be used as a substitute for flexible PVC. The polymers, which have similar flexibility and mechanical properties to flexible PVC, can be formed using the same equipment and conditions. Asahi claims that SOE-SS resins have superior scratch resistance and wear characteristics to flexible PVC. The resin is made by co-polymerisation of styrene and butadiene, followed by hydrogenation of the polybutadiene segments to produce a co-polymer of styrene, ethylene and butylene. Asahi says the production method allows manipulation of the polymer structure to create extra performance characteristics. The cost of SOE-SS should be comparable to that of flexible PVC, according to Asahi. The polymer will be produced at Asahi’s Kawasaki facility in Japan.