Mitsubishi Chemical Group (MCG Group) has announced to launch of new grades of BENEBiOL™, a biomass-based polycarbonatediol featuring increased biomass content.

Japan (October 2024): In October, Mitsubishi Chemical Group (MCG Group) announced the launch of new grades of BENEBiOL™, a biomass-based polycarbonatediol featuring increased biomass content. These grades will be showcased in a panel display at the 4th Sustainable Material Expo, taking place at Makuhari Messe from October 29 to 31, 2024.

BENEBiOL™ is recognized as the world’s first biomass-based polycarbonatediol, primarily serving as a raw material for polyurethane resins. By incorporating biomass components, manufacturers can enhance the performance of polyurethane resins, providing improved flexibility without compromising chemical resistance, stain resistance, and a distinctive tactile feel compared to traditional petroleum-derived products. These resins find applications in a variety of sectors, including paints and coatings for automotive, furniture, and outdoor products, as well as in synthetic and artificial leather.

Previously, the biobased content of existing BENEBiOL™ grades ranged from 20% to 50%. However, the newly introduced HSS and NLDS grades now achieve a biobased content of over 80%. Also, several earlier petroleum-derived grades have been successfully converted to biomass (NLS grades), allowing MCG to offer bio-based options across the entire BENEBiOL™ product line. This transition to biomass-based raw materials, while maintaining high-quality performance, will support our customers’ sustainability initiatives.

Through the development of BENEBiOL™, the MCG Group reaffirms its commitment to delivering high value-added products that contribute to sustainable manufacturing and the realization of environmentally responsible societies.

According to TechSci Research, Mitsubishi Chemical Group (MCG Group) has announced the launch of new grades of BENEBiOL™, a biomass-based polycarbonatediol. This development is expected to significantly impact the polycarbonatediol market by introducing higher biomass content products that cater to the growing demand for sustainable materials.

The new grades of BENEBiOL™ will enhance the functionality of polyurethane resins, offering superior performance characteristics, including increased flexibility, chemical resistance, and stain resistance. With a biobased content exceeding 80% in the newly introduced HSS and NLDS grades, these products represent a significant advancement over existing offerings, which had a biobased content of 20% to 50%.

This strategic move not only positions MCG as a leader in the sustainable materials sector but also supports manufacturers seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional petroleum-derived polycarbonatediols. As the market shifts toward sustainability, MCG's commitment to innovation in biomass-based products is likely to attract new customers and strengthen its competitive edge.