Market Chatter: Nagase & Co. Targets Middle East Supply Risks with New Starch-Based Absorbent Polymer
Nagase & Co. (TYO:8012) has developed a starch-based superabsorbent polymer (SAP) to replace the petroleum-based materials traditionally used in diapers and sanitary pads, Nikkei Asia reported Thursday, citing an official.Japanese startup VVV is releasing a women's incontinence pad on Thursday that uses Nagase's new material, the report said.Nagase developed the material to reduce reliance on naphtha (petroleum) and avoid supply chain disruptions from the Middle East, according to the report.Nagase developed the material in 2023 by combining its subsidiaries' expertise in enzymes and semiconductor-grade plastics.(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)
