Mitsubishi Chemical Launches Biomass-Based Polycarbonate Diol BENEBiOL

Mitsubishi Chemical Group has developed a biomass-based polycarbonate diol, called BENEBiOL, with a higher biomass content.

BENEBiOL is the world's first biomass-based polycarbonate diol, used primarily as a main raw material for polyurethane resins. The use of biomass ingredients enables manufacturers to impart superior functionality to polyurethane resins, including flexibility, without sacrificing chemical and stain resistance, as well as a unique touch, compared to conventional petroleum-derived products.

These resins are used in paints and coatings for automotive, furniture and outdoor products, as well as synthetic and artificial leather.

Existing BENEBiOL grades have a biobased content of mainly 20-50%, but the new HSS and NLDS grades have achieved more than 80% biobased content. In addition, some of the previous petroleum-derived grades have been converted to biomass (NLS grades), enabling Mitsubishi Chemical to offer bio-grades for all BENEBiOL products. The switch to biomass-based raw materials while maintaining high-quality functionality will help its customers achieve sustainable manufacturing.

Through the development of BENEBiOL, the Mitsubishi Chemical Group aims to continue to provide high value-added products and contribute to the realization of a sustainable society.