Dow-Mitsui Polychemicals Commences Marketing of Biomass-Derived EVA and LDPE

Mitsui & Dow Polychemicals has commenced the marketing of biomass ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and biomass low-density polyethylene (LDPE) starting September 1, 2024. These biomass-derived materials are produced using the mass balance method and maintain the same resin properties as their conventional petroleum-based counterparts. The key advantage of biomass EVA and LDPE is that they exhibit identical physical properties to those of petroleum-derived ethylene, allowing for an easy transition from traditional products without compromising performance. Additionally, they offer the significant benefit of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the entire product life cycle, contributing to a more sustainable future.

The company’s Chiba Plant in Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture, achieved ISCC PLUS certification in May 2024, marking a crucial step in their preparation for the production and marketing of these biomass products. This certification underscores the plant’s adherence to the highest standards of sustainability and traceability in the use of biomass materials.

Mitsui & Dow Polychemicals is now offering two primary biomass resin products: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Copolymer, marketed under the brand name EVAFLEX™ (with some grades not included), and Low-Density Polyethylene, marketed under the brand name MIRASON™. These products are part of the company's broader initiative to expand its portfolio of environmentally friendly resins.

By launching these biomass-based resins, Mitsui & Dow Polychemicals demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and its role in fostering a circular economy. The company is actively working to develop and introduce more eco-friendly resin products, aiming to reduce environmental impacts such as GHG emissions throughout the product life cycle. This initiative is in line with the company's broader mission to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society.

Mitsui & Dow Polychemicals’ move to market biomass EVA and LDPE represents a significant step towards providing solutions that align with global sustainability goals. As the demand for environmentally responsible materials grows, the company is well-positioned to lead the industry in offering products that meet these needs while maintaining the quality and performance standards expected by customers.

Dow-Mitsui Polychemicals Co., Ltd., established on December 14, 1960, is headquartered at Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, Yaesu Central Tower 19F, 2-1, Yaesu 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0028. The company is a joint venture equally owned by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc., and Dow Chemical Japan Limited, with a capital stock of 6.48 billion yen. Dow-Mitsui Polychemicals specializes in the production and sale of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer and ionomer resins, which are widely used across various industries, particularly in food packaging materials and films. The company operates two manufacturing plants and one laboratory within Japan.