Showa Denko (SDK) Completes Pilot Plant for Heat-Resistant Transparent Film SHORAYALTM
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Tokyo - Showa Denko K.K. (SDK) has completed, within the premises of its Oita Complex, a pilot plant for its new heat-resistant and transparent film SHORAYALTM. SDK will start sample shipments for use in displays, including touch screens, and accelerate marketing activities in preparation for the start of full-scale commercial shipments.
With the completion of the pilot plant, SDK can supply film samples in the form of sheets, in addition to rolls. Since samples are to be provided in accordance with actual manufacturing conditions at customers, SDK expects that the process for commercialization of SHORAYALTM will move quickly.
SDK has developed SHORAYALTM based on its proprietary resin technology for glass lens applications. The film has high transparency necessary for optical films, and high heat resistance required when displays, including touch screens, are produced.
Demand will continue to grow for displays of smart phones, tablet PCs, and other types of mobile electronic devices. Furthermore, these displays will be continuously improved in terms of visibility, durability and lightweight. In this context, SHORAYALTM has great potential for outstanding performance and cost advantages. In view of the customers' high valuation of SHORAYALTM samples, SDK will step up its efforts toward the commercialization of the product, distributing more samples and improving performance further.
SDK has adopted a logo for SHORAYALTM in an effort to obtain greater recognition from the market.
SDK is strengthening its optical films business, classifying it as one of "New Growth" businesses. Development of optical films other than SHORAYALTM is also under way. SDK is planning to generate annual sales of JPY 20 billion in the field of optical films in 2020.
Major characteristics of SHORAYALTM(TM)
o Heat resistance: Can be used in high-temperature processes of up to 250 degrees C
o Optical characteristics: High light transmittance of 92% (comparable to that of glass); Low double refraction
o Chemical resistance: High resistance to acids, alkalis, and organic solvents
o Surface characteristics: High surface hardness of 3H or more (in pencil hardness)
About Showa Denko
Showa Denko K.K. ('SDK'; TSE: 4004, US: SHWDF) is a major manufacturer and marketer of chemical products serving a wide range of fields ranging from heavy industry to the electronic and computer industries. SDK makes petrochemicals (ethylene, propylene), aluminum products (ingots, rods), electronic equipment (hard disks for computers) and inorganic materials (ceramics, carbons). The company has overseas operations and a joint venture with Netherlands-based Montell and Nippon Petrochemicals to make and market polypropylenes. In March 2001, SDK merged with Showa Denko Aluminum Corporation to strengthen the high-value-added fabricated aluminum products operations, and is today developing next-generation optical communications-use wafers. For more information, please visit www.sdk.co.jp.
Contact:
Showa Denko K.K. (SDK)
IR & PR Office
Tel: +81-3-5470-3235
