Japanese TPE Maker Coming to U.S.

Riken Technos and Mitsubishi Corp. of Tokyo have established a joint venture, Riken Elastomers, in Hopkinsville, Ky. It will supply TPEs primarily to Japanese auto companies here when it starts up next July. Riken Technos makes primarily PVC compounds, films, and sheet, but since 2003 has launched a line of TPEs. These include Actymer, a dynamically vulcanized styrenic TPV with good heat and oil resistance. It comes in Hyperalloy versions blended with TPU, copolyester TPE, or nylon elastomers to add wear and chemical resistance. Riken also offers Leostomer SBC and TPO compounds and Trinity olefinic TPV.