Tosoh has had a long relationship with NPU, going right back to its establishment in 1960. NPU’s plant is adjacent to Tosoh’s Nanyo Complex and Tosoh affiliate Hodogaya Chemical and Tosoh have been major shareholders for years. Because of the similar natures of their businesses and their close proximity, the relationship has been definitely symbiotic. Tosoh supplies essential raw materials, such as aniline, carbon monoxide, and chlorine to NPU, while NPU reciprocates by providing hydrogen chloride for Tosoh’s production of VCM. Because of the potential synergies between the vinyl and isocyanate chains, it was only natural for Tosoh to strengthen these ties over the years. Tosoh and Hodogaya Chemical became the sole shareholders of NPU in 2001. Since then, Tosoh has increased its stake in stages, the most recent share acquisition making NPU a consolidated subsidiary. Tosoh took this important step in conjunction with the massive expansion of its vinyl-isocyanate chain, one component of which was a doubling of NPU’s MDI production capacity. By tightening the collaboration between the two companies, Tosoh plans to give a further boost to the competitiveness of its vinyl-isocyanate chain, with an eye on the booming Asian market.

NPU’s markets have taken off in Asia. MDI in particular is expected to achieve 10% growth rates over the long term. With so many aspects of their operations in common—processes, strategies, and markets—it was high time that Tosoh welcome NPU and its annual net sales of ¥81.7 billion into the fold. Through the vinyl-isocyanate expansion program, NPU expects to raise its consolidated net sales to reach the ¥130 billion mark in the next several years.

POLYURETHANES

Polyurethanes derivatives are used as raw materials in a wide range of coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers (case) applications as well as in foams and synthetic leather applications. Because of their many superior properties both in liquid and rigid foam, polyurethanes have extensive application in major growth industries, including electronics, automotive, medical, and construction as well as in clothing, sportswear, and sports equipment, paints and coatings.

With their high biocompatibility, polyurethanes are used in water purification units and in artificial dialysis cylinders. Due to their heat insulating and noise and vibration dampening qualities, they also have vast application in the automobile industry. Thanks to their superior adhesion and electric insulation features, we can enjoy many of the lifestyle advances brought to us by the electronics and wiring industry. And we shouldn’t forget the construction industry, where most of the polyurethane produced goes. Because of their insulation properties and superior weatherability, polyurethanes are used in walls, ceilings, flooring, coatings, and adhesives.