The Mitsubishi Chemical Group (the MCG Group) announces that it has decided to increase the γ-butyrolactone (gamma-butyrolactone; GBL) production capacity of its Okayama Plant (Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture) by 2,000 tons/year. This expanded production is scheduled to start in July 2024.

 

GBL is a high-purity solvent used as an electrolyte for capacitors and semiconductor parts cleaning solutions. It is also a raw material for N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), used in lithium-ion batteries and for semiconductor parts cleaning solutions. As the only manufacturer of GBL and NMP in Japan, the MCG Group boasts the top share in the domestic market.

 

The lithium-ion battery and semiconductor markets are expected to continue to grow, and the MCG Group has decided to increase its GBL production capacity to meet robust domestic demand. We will contribute to furthering the EV and electronics industries' progression and supporting a sustainable society.