Mitsui Chemicals announced that its subsidiary Prime Polymer has become the first company in Japan to commercially produce and ship biomass polypropylene (PP).

Derived from bio-based hydrocarbons that Mitsui Chemicals received at its Osaka Works in Takaishi, Osaka, last December from Neste Corporation, this PP is certified as bio-based using the mass balance method in accordance with ISCC PLUS certification for plastic and chemical derivatives.

Mitsui Chemicals Group is working to realize a circular economy through the two-pronged approach of chemical recycling and conversion to bio-based materials. Aiding in the effort to circumvent global warming, bio-based production represents an avenue of strategic importance when it comes to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

In conjunction then with its development of materials and processes toward this end, Mitsui Chemicals aims to make this shipment of a bio-based hydrocarbon derivative the first step toward promoting the implementation of bio-based chemicals and plastics into society.

“We are delighted to have been able to ship and deliver what is the first bio-based PP we have made from bio-based raw materials through the mass balance method,” said Fujimoto Kensuke, President, Prime Polymer.

“By providing biomass PP, Prime Polymer will once again be contributing to the value creation of its customers through the mantle of ‘Your Prime Solution Partner.’ And in doing so, Prime Polymer will work together with its customers toward achieving a society that is recycling-oriented while still being convenient for everyone.”