Column

No.

09

Illustration drawn circa 1990

Nihonbashi-muromachi to the Sanshin Building in Hibiya, Tokyo. Our head office
was located there until 2005, when it was moved to the current Nihonbashi
Mitsui Tower.
The Sanshin Building had eight floors above ground and two below. The first two
floors had a vaulted ceiling with depictions of the twelve zodiac constellations.
With its sculptured lights and marble staircase, the building’s classical, luxurious
appearance was worthy of its prime location near the Imperial Palace. It was truly
a historical building that represented the early Showa period.
It was also earthquake resistant, having drawn lessons from the Great Kanto
earthquake of 1923. The foundation was strong, and the building was designed
to not collapse even if tilted 30 degrees. Supposedly, it was also the only buildingin the area immune to land sinkage, as it was raised up, and employees had touse several staircases simply to enter and exit it.
Denka’s offices were on the fourth and fifth floors. This included the generalaffairs and sales departments, which played key roles in developing the company.
Some employees who worked at Denka back then still clearly remember themassive archives, the view of Hibiya Park, and the smell of Tokyo Bay. Others
have fond memories of attending welcome parties at the building’s French
restaurant or spotting celebrities in the area.
The Sanshin Building was the stage for many dramas at Denka from the Showa
period during and after World War II to the Heisei period. It was eventually closed
many employees, preserving these historical memories. The Tokyo Midtown
Hibiya Underground Arcade, which opened in March 2018 on the former siteof the Sanshin and Hibiya Mitsui buildings, retains some design elements of theSanshin Building.

Unauthorized
reproduction prohibitedin 2007 due to old age, but the image of the past still remains in the hearts of

Published: October 1, 2021/ Publisher: Corporate Communications Dept., Denka Co., Ltd. / Editor-in-chief: Satoshi Fukuoka /Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, 2-1-1 Nihonbashi-muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0022

Exactly 90 years ago, in 1931, Denka moved from its original location in

Autumn
2021

Vol.

09

Vol.09A Distinctive
Western-Style Building of
the Early Showa Period

The DenkaWay

2021

The place that Denka called home for 74 years

The DenkaWay Autumn

GunbaiThe Styrene Chain Begins Here
Contents

2 Amazing the World with Innovation
The Styrene Chain Begins Here

8 Think INNOVATION
Creating a Place Where People Can Belong
by Keiko Kojima, Essayist/Talent

9 Challengers for Denka Value-UpOn the Frontline of the Threefold “Value-Up”

16
17
18
20

A Specialist’s Perspective
DENKA TOPICS / INFORMATIONLINK GLOBALLY, LINK FUTURE
Gunbai Column

The Styrene Chain Begins Here
Polymer Solutions, one of Denka’s four business sectors, provides various products to the world, including functional plastics and synthetic fibers.
One major factor in Denka’s ability to thrive in the competitive chemical industry is the construction of our “Styrene Chain.”
Before explaining what the Styrene Chain is, let us first take a look at “monomers” and “polymers,” which form the base for the business.

monomer?

What is a

A small molecule which fuses with other molecules
to become a polymer. “Mono” means “one” in Greek.

polymer?

Main plastics

A fusion of monomers.
“Poly” means “many” in Greek.

(Polymer)

StyrenePolystyrene

Has a unique fragrance and appears as a colorlesstransparent liquid at room temperature. Produced bydehydrogenating ethylbenzene using iron catalysts. It
is used to make polystyrene and synthetic resins suchas ABS, MS, MBS, SBC, as well as paints and SBR, arubber used in tires.

A transparent*1 or milky white*2 plastic which is relatively hardand easy to mold and process. Used in a variety of products
including home appliances, general merchandise, and foodcontainers. It is also used as a foamed product.

Cl

Vinyl chloride

Polyvinyl chloride

H

H

Appears as a colorless gas at room temperature andis flammable. Produced by thermally decomposing
ethylene dichloride (EDC).

With its excellent processability and strength, it is used in everyday items as well as for industrial purposes such as piping.

H

CH3

Propylene

Polypropylene

Appears as a colorless transparent liquid with a uniquefragrance at room temperature.

It is light and solid, boasting an excellent chemical resistanceand high moldability. It can be mass produced at a low costand is used to manufacture containers for food and cargo.

HC

H

C

C

CH2

C

C

*1 GPPS: General Purpose Polystyrene*2 HIPS: (High Impact Polystyrene)

Left photo: Toyokalon (Our product - fiber for hair pieces),right photo: rain gutter (Product of Denka Astec Co.)

H

H

H

H

Ethylene

Polyethylene

H

A colorless flammable olefinic hydrocarbon with asweet fragrance. It is used to manufacture various
chemical fibers and organic chemical products.

The macromolecule with the simplest structure. It boasts low
material costs and high processability. Uses include foodcontainers and packaging film.

H

C

C

Polymer

Monomer(Monomer)

What is a

Polymerization

From monomer to polymer
The mechanism ofpolymerization
2

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

Plastics are created when many of their ingredient polymers connect after undergoing a chemical
reaction called “polymerization.” The large molecule created by the joining of the monomers is called apolymer (macromolecule).
For example, connecting styrene polymers creates polystyrene, which is used in food containers andhome appliances.

Monomer

The monomers
connect

Polymer(Macromolecule)Amazingthewith Innovation
2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

3

Styrene chain value ring
Producing styrene monomers, producing plastics such as polystyrene, processing containers, and recycling.
The strong point of Polymer Solutions is its establishment of a comprehensive supply chain management which includes all Group companies.
This “Styrene Chain” does not just process each part (product), but strengthens the entire process by connecting to each step.

The biggest production
capacity in eastern Japan

Periodic repair work switched from atwo- to a four-year cycle

Domestic styrene monomer manufacturing plants
are located mostly in western Japan. Denka's
Chiba Plant handles large-scale production tosatisfy the large demand in eastern Japan.

We used to perform repair work on the plant once every two years. By
switching to a once-in-four-year schedule, we can prevent reductions in
the production quantity. To avoid problems arising from the longer repair
cycle, we are reviewing and improving our operations.

Returning a polymer tomonomer form once again

A rich polystyrene lineup

The Group company TOYO-STYRENE Co. is currently
planning proof-of-concept chemical recycling tests toreturn used polystyrene to monomer form and reuse
it. In addition to reusing resources, chemical recycling
allows CO2 emissions to be reduced to under half of
their original amount.

Styrene monomers
Denka
NIPPON STEEL
Chemical &Material Co.

TOYO-STYRENE

Chemical recycling

Polystyrene resin

Used PS

Chemical recycling plant(TOYO-STYRENE)

Increased demand during
the COVID-19 pandemic

Manufactured at sold at TOYO-STYRENE Co., aGroup company. They handle various grades of plastic
including the GP series, which boasts excellent transparency, the HI series, which is highly impact resistant,and the environmentally friendly bioplastic BM series.

Manufacture of styrene monomers

The Styrene Chain
Value Ring Connects

Circular model ofpolystyrene (PS) PS food containers/
SM refining plant(TOYO-STYRENE) chemical recycling sheet manufacturers

Recycled styrene monomers

and Continues to Expand

Processing of foodcontainers

Performance plastics which
are very sturdy despite beingtransparent

Amazing
theThere are various uses for biaxially oriented polystyrene sheets (BOPS), and demand for takeout foodcontainers produced by the Group company Denka
Polymer Co. has been especially high throughout the
COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, these sheets arewidely used for boxed lunch lids because of theirstrength and their transparency, which allows theinsides to be seen.

Manufacture of
styrene-based plastics

with Innovation

Chiba Plant: biaxially oriented polystyrene sheets (BOPS)
Isesaki Plant: PS sheets

There are various grades for Denka’s food container
sheets, including transparency, heat resistance, cold
resistance, oil resistance, and light protection. Heat resistant sheets are in particularly high demand nowadays as
warming convenience store lunchboxes for a short time
at a high temperature has become common.
4

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

Device for manufacturing biaxially oriented
polystyrene sheets (BOPS)

Oil resistantTransparent

Strength is increased
through vertical andhorizontal stretching
Heat resistant

Biaxial stretching is employed toform a sheet from the transparent
polystyrene.

Our performance plastics product lineup, developedwith unique technology, has seen a variety of uses,
including in cars, home appliances, daily necessities,
and food-related products.
Examples of application
MBS resin “TH Polymer”: Used for home appliances, etc. It is transparent and very strong.
SBC resin “Clearen”: Used for labels on PET
bottles, etc.

Manufacture of plastic sheets

Sheets with addedfunctionality

The Styrene Monomer Plant, the largest of our plants in Chiba

Horizontal stretching

Manufacturing direction

Vertical stretching

BeforeAfter

Denka transparent resin

The molecules form a mesh,increasing its strength2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

5

Environment Related
Products

Fitting food package “OP Light N”

Amazingthewith Innovation

Denka’s Environment Related Products

For Our Continued Existencewith the Earth
Plastics are an irreplaceable part of our lives. However, their effects on the environment,
including ecosystem damage as a result of plastic leaking into the ocean and greenhouse gas effects arising from the use of petroleum-derived materials are becoming an
issue on a global scale. Denka Group is proactively engaging in efforts to preserve theenvironment to fulfill its social obligations as a chemical manufacturer which handles
plastics. These efforts include the development of environmentally friendly products.

Utilizing the Advantagesof the Styrene Chain
Kenjiro Ishizuka Executive Officer, Polymer Solution
PROFILE
Joined the company in 1986 and was assigned to the Organic Fine Chemicals Department, Chemicals
Division. Following assignments at DCS (Shanghai) and DSPL (Singapore), he became manager of the
Performance Plastics Department before assuming his current post in April 2021. His hobbies include
going for walks, traveling, and trying out local foods. However, he is currently spending his weekends
watching recordings of the popular show “Kodoku no Gourmet” due to the restrictions imposed on travel.

Food packaging material

Container for chilled
soba noodles

Sandwich container“Delisand”

Biaxially oriented polystyrene sheets (BOPS) are mainly used for foodcontainers, and demand for them has been rising in recent years in takeout
and food delivery businesses. The “Eco Clear” series, made even thinnerwith our unique sheet molding process, is contributing to container weight
reductions and lowering the amount of CO2-producing waste. Additionally,
Denka Polymer Co., a Group company, is utlizing their “Plapis” series, whichcontains plant-derived ingredients, in food containers.

Heat resistant modifier “Denka IP®”

Reduces deformations due to heat andcontributes to safety“Denka IP®” is a heat resistance modifier for ABS resin which is mainly used in
car interiors and exterior parts, as well as home appliances. By increasing theheatproof temperature of ABS resin, it reduces deformations caused by heat andcontributes to increased safety. It also improves the in-car environment throughits low VOC (volatile organic compounds) content. Its contributions to reducing theenvironmental burden include weight reductions and removing coating needs forauto parts as well as the ability to recycle ABS to manufacture heat-resistant ABS.

MS resin “Denka TX Polymer®”

Top manufacturer of light guide platesfor LCD TVs and PC monitors
The “Denka TX Polymer®” is a transparent resin with a wide variety of uses, including lightguide plates for monitor and LCD TV backlights, cosmetics containers, and luxury variety goods.
Boasting a high dimensional stability and light transmittance, it is especially suitable for opticaluses and applications that require a particular design. Compared to acrylic resin, a lower amountof electricity is used for its molding, and it contributes to weight reductions in various products.
6

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

Polymer Solutions, we manufacture
styrene-based plastics and processed
products (styrene-based and PVC-based) in
addition to expanding chemical products such as
POVAL globally. As a result of an organizational
restructure in April this year, the system handlingthe entire process including manufacturing andprocessing polymer products from monomers
and selling them, the so-called “Styrene Chain,”is now completed entirely within our division. To
take advantage of this structure, we are aiming
to remove interdivisional obstacles and increase
our problem-solving abilities and business speed.
In order to promote internal collaboration, we
regularly host social events where departments
get to know each other. We plan to eventuallywiden our communications to include the plants
and other divisions.
We have a lot of strengths other than the
Styrene Chain. The first is our establishment of a
two-hub production system for functional resins
with the Chiba and Singapore Plants. The motherplant is in Chiba, but large-scale production is
also taking place in Singapore. There are many
advantages to a two-hub production system,
including reduced transportation and tariff
expenses and the ability to continue production
during an emergency.
The second is the cost competitiveness ofstyrene monomers, the source of the Styrene
Chain. In addition to utilizing our manufacturingexpertise, refined over many years, we are un-Atdertaking new challenges such as switching the
production plant's regular repair work to a fouryear cycle from a two-year cycle, allowing us tomaintain production quantities and reduce repair
costs.
The third is our R&D potential, used to create
various products. In our current structure, thedivisions which handle monomers and polymers
have fused with the ones which are responsible
for manufacturing the processed goods, whichmakes many synergies possible.

biomass-based materials and reduce the amountof fossil fuels used.
Since last year, we have also been focusing
on chemical recycling. Together with the Group
company TOYO-STYRENE Co., we are looking
into commercializing the recycling of used polystyrene into styrene monomers. While refining thetechnology as we aim to put it to practical use,
we will also aim to make Denka Group take theleading role in promoting polystyrene recycling inwider society.

Showing our value in the“Recycling-Based Society”

A division that continues to
produce specialty products

What we must focus on at the moment is thedevelopment of environmentally friendly products
and business models which follow the SDGs.
Plastic is a wonderful material with plenty ofstrengths. They are sturdy, light, sanitary, and canbe manufactured at a low cost. However, theyharbor many challenges such as CO2 emissions

In the past, chemical companies would place anemphasis on scale. In other words, a company
that can produce 500,000 tons or one million
tons is better than one that can only produce
100,000 tons. Nowadays, however, it is not thescale that matters, but whether the company canmanufacture products that are useful for society.
Denka has a wide range of niche products witha leading share, such as our functional plastics
and processed resin products. They all makeuse of Denka’s unique technology, boast special
characteristics, and are very useful while being
fully capable of competing on the global stage
and contributing to society. Polymer Solutions'
ideal is to be able to continue to create suchproducts. We want to be the division which is theembodiment of Denka’s promotion of “Specialty.”

during manufacture and the oceanic plastics
problem. Our mission is to prove that plastics canbe used in the future recycling-based society andto make their value reacknowledged by everyone. One of the initiatives to help us accomplish
this goal is the development of biaxially oriented
polystyrene sheets. Increased durability as a resultof our processing technology allows us to makethem even thinner, lowering the amount of plastic
used. We are also proceeding with efforts to add

New Head of Polymer Solutions

Initiatives toward environmental preservation

2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

7

On the Frontline

Think INNOVATION
Introducing articles that provide hints for innovation

No. 09Creating a Place Where People Can Belong
Essayist/Talent

Keiko Kojima

of the Threefold

Value-UpNo.

After graduating from university, she joined the Japanese broadcaster TBS and appeared on TV and radio as an announcer. In 1999, she won the 36th Galaxy DJ Personality Award.
Since going independent, she has appeared in various media and has been actively writing and lecturing. Some of her books include Gebaku, Rururairai, and Horizon. She is currently
a visiting researcher at the University of Tokyo’s Interfaculty Initiative in Information Studies, where she organizes symposiums on media and journalism.

When I was younger, I struggled to accept my position

01

Chiba Plant

In this segment, we focus on theworksites that are striving to realize
the threefold growth vision“Denka Value-Up.” In the first edition,
we will introduce the Chiba Plant.

a person with developmental disabilities, I wanted to create more opportunities to think about what “normal” means. Those were my two

I’m willing to give anything a try. That was my attitude first as an em-

starting points.

ployee and now as a freelancer. When I was younger, I watched myAustralia, where I am raising my children, is a multicultural country

fellow announcers shine in their roles on variety and sports programs,with people of many different languages, eye and hair colors, and reli-and I spent a lot of time wondering about how I could stand out. Then,

gions. It is a society where diversity is easy to see. In comparison, Japanin my third year at the company, my boss told me, “You might be better

is a country where it is difficult to be aware of diversity. There is a sort

suited to being a radio reporter than a TV assistant.” At the time, report-of peer pressure that makes it unacceptable to be different from others.

ing for radio shows or mini programs

It is not surprising that people don’t

was considered a dull job. It definitely

always click with the idea of diversity

wasn’t a glamorous assignment forhere. I believe that one of the roles

a young female announcer, so I wasof the media is to shed light on theuneasy at first. However, when I ac-

differences that are all around us but

tually tried it, I found that it was fun

remain unseen.

and did suit me. As I continued, theThese days, in addition to D&I, B

people around me began appreciat-(a feeling of Belonging) is also said

ing my work, and before I knew it, I

to be important. Together, they are

had won the Galaxy DJ Personality

sometimes referred to as D&I&B. It

Award. I went into a niche direction

is not enough just for the majority toand discovered a blue ocean of op-

care about diversity. To create a truly

portunity.

inclusive society or organization, theWhen you encounter a new type

minorities need to feel welcome andof work, try to immerse yourself in it.

safe and that they can demonstrate

As you continue, you may find it fun

their full potential. To help people

and rewarding, and those results willencourage you further. That is how I

feel like they belong, I think the mostAt the recording studio of one of her regular radio programs

approach each new job.

important thing is to listen to theiropinions. “What kind of person areyou?” “How do you feel?” We need

Shedding light on the differences around us

to ask those questions and listen carefully to the answers. That will bea message saying, “You are welcome here.” I believe that if everyone

Since going independent, I have had opportunities to do various types

demonstrates this attitude, we will be able to fulfill our potential as indi-

of work, but a large portion of my time has been spent on D&I*. I had

viduals and that will lead to innovation.

my doubts about the role of a so-called “female announcer,” which issynonymous with an old-fashioned ideal of women in Japan. And as
8

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn*D&I: Diversity & Inclusion. The idea of recognizing diversity, respecting differences, and making
the most of individual strengths

2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

9

Business

Value-Up
Denka Co., Ltd. Chiba Plant

56 Years as a Petrochemical Hub
We are Entering a New Stage.

Spot Light

Chiba Plant
By advancing DX and creating an “understanding plant,”
we will greatly increase job satisfaction.

T

An industrial complex in the cornerof Keiyo Seaside Industrial Zone
The Chiba Plant is located in the corner of Keiyo
Seaside Industrial Zone, known as the area with the

The Chiba Plant’s work cycle,
from receiving the raw materials to manufacturing the products

largest production of ethylene in Japan. It belongs
to the “Maruzen Petrochemical Industrial Complex,”
the seventh to form domestically in 1961. In addition
Styrenemonomers

Polystyrene(TOYO-STYRENE Co.)

Denka Thermo
Sheet (BOPS)

to our company, at present it consists of Maruzen

Transparent
containers forfood packaging

Industries, Ltd., JNC Petrochemical Corporation, KH

Cosmo Oil Co.

Ethylene

Plant

NaphtaSuper-heatresistant resin IP

BenzeneAcetylene gas

ButadieneN

10

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

Chiba Plant (Denka)

Chiba

Maruzen Petrochemical Co.

Pipeline

Cosmo Oil Co.

MaruzenPetrochemical Co.

ABS resin(Denka polymer)

Petrochemical Co., Ltd., Cosmo Oil Co., Ltd., Ube
Neochem Co., Ltd., and Nippon Soda Co., Ltd., atotal of seven companies.
The Maruzen Petrochemical Industrial Complex
connects each company via a pipeline. Cosmo OilTransparent
resinCo., Ltd. refines the crude oil and supplies Maruzen
Petrochemical Co., Ltd. with naphtha, a raw material
used in plastics and synthetic fibers. Afterward,

Clearenpetrochemicals produced at Maruzen PetrochemicalCo., Ltd.’s ethylene plant are supplied to chemical

ER rubber

manufacturers, including our company. We are supUltra-pureacetylene black

PVC tape

Polyvinyl chloride

Rain guttersplied with a total of four materials, ethylene, benzene,
acetylene gas, and butadiene, and we use them tomanufacture styrene resin, special conductive materials, polystyrene processed products, acetyl products,(Taiyo Vinyl Corporation)

Corrugatedpipes

PVC products, and resin processed products, among
others.

he Chiba Plant began operations in 1965,
the year of Denka Co.’s 50th anniversary.
Around 500 employees, or around 1,100 if
partner and affiliated company workers areincluded, operate on its premises, which covera gross area of 647,000m2.
At the Chiba Plant, there are productionlines that handle the entire manufacturing
process for resin processed products madeout of resins with various different features.
Styrene monomers created with raw materials
provided by Maruzen Petrochemical Co. are
the source of all these products. In addition to
our flagship products which include the special
resin “Clearen” the special elastomer “Denka
ER®,” and ultra-pure acetylene black forlithium-ion batteries, we produce high quality
and high-performance specialty products suchas transparent containers for food packaging,housing and environmental materials, and adhesive tape 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We
also provide technical support as the “motherplant” to Denka Group’s Singapore and Vietnam
Plants, which handle overseas synthetic resin
production and resin processing.
Additionally, the Chiba Plants boasts
excellent logistics due to its placement within
the Tokyo metropolitan area, having accessto land transportation, sea transportation via
dedicated quays and the Chiba Port. The Narita

Airport and the Haneda Airport via the Tokyo
Bay Aqua-Line can also be used. We utilize thisadvantageous location to the maximum extent
to deliver an array of products to customers
around the world.
The Chiba Plant is currently focused on
two initiatives in order to realize the “Denka
Value-Up” plan. The first is the promotion of DX(Digital Transformation). Efforts to utilize digitaltechnology to improve productivity include
creating training simulators at the styrene
monomer plant, which is currently shifting to afour-year repair work cycle.
The second is the realization of smoothcommunication within the plant. In order for us
to succeed with our initiatives of “Putting safety
first,” “Thorough compliance,” and “Promoting
specialization,” we must work as a team. To dothat, each employee must take ownership of
their work. We are all striving to treat each otherwith respect, placing a great importance on thevalue of “language.” The goal is to create an“understanding plant” where communication isachieved despite the restrictions imposed by
the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Chiba Plant employees’ motivation
keeps rising due as a result of the friendly
working environment. We will continue in our
pursuit of a safer, more secure, and more profitable plant that is a truly rewarding workplace.

2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

11

A

Business

Value-Up
Leveraging a Unique Technology in JapanThe First Four-Year Repair Cycle
for a Domestic Styrene Monomer PlantAt the styrene monomer plant, efforts to shift toa four-year regular repair work cycle from theformer two-year cycle are underway, the first initiativeof its kind in Japan. The goal is to optimize costs
and time efficiencies by lowering the frequency of
repair work while still maintaining safety, security, andproduct quality.
At the plant, we mainly produce the raw materials
for plastics and rubber, handling high-pressure gases
and hazardous substances. In case of a leak, there
is a risk of enormous damage caused by fires andexplosions, so we maintain operational safety by
performing regular inspections and repairs.
Repair work used to be performed once every
two years because of the two-year life cycle of thecatalysts used in production. It was necessary to halt
operations, and repairs took one month to complete,with over 300 workers required per day. Manufacturing work could not be performed during this time.
Although regular repairs are necessary to maintainsafety, they were becoming a heavy cost burden.
As a result of efforts to prolong the regular repair
work cycle which included technological testing andoverseas field surveys, we were the first in Japan
to implement CST* technology. Catalysts decline in

12

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

performance as a result of continuous use, and theplant has to cease operations for them to be replaced. However, by using CST technology to restore
catalysts’ performance and expand their life cycle,
prolonging the plant’s continuous operations to four
years is possible. There are multiple case studies using
such equipment overseas, but the optimal operational
conditions have yet to be established. Our current goal
is to establish these conditions as the next regular
repairs are due in 2022.
Although there are many advantages to performing
repair work once every four years, chances to passon experience will unfortunately decline. To address
this, we plan to create training simulators which allow
employees to perform the work on a computer andutilize them mainly for training young employees. Additionally, as part of our DX promotion initiatives, we arelooking into security measures such as an abnormal
event diagnostic device which detects changes intemperature and vibrations within the plant at an earlystage. We are also digitizing documents in order toimprove operational efficiency. We will continue ourefforts to realize the Business Value-Up by promoting
digital technology-based optimizations and the plant’s
operational safety.
* Condensate storage tankt the Chiba plant, we will implement two highefficiency gas turbines for power generationin June 2022. With these, we aim to decrease theplant’s yearly output of greenhouse gases (CO2) by
6%, or over 12,000 tons. This is the next step in ourenergy saving initiatives after the introduction of gas
turbine power generation at the Omi Plant in 2018.
As a result of the promotion of production specialization, the amount of electrical and steam powerat this plant has been changing dramatically in recent
years. To adapt to these changes, we halted the useof large-scale thermal power generating equipment in2016 and shifted to using existing gas turbines andcovering demand through purchases from external
suppliers. This, however, led to being overly dependent
on the external factors, which was a problem from anenvironmental perspective and could not guarantee astable supply of energy. To deal with this, we chose torenovate aging thermal equipment and implement thenewest high efficiency gas turbines.
Gas turbines at regular electric power companies
are specialized to generate power, and the thermal
efficiency of converting the released energy into electrical power for the newest models is only between 60

and 65%. However, although the gas turbines we plan
to introduce are the same as the existing models inthat they use the waste heat to create steam, supplying power and heat at the same time, they operate ata higher thermal efficiency of up to 85%. This lowers
the quantity of natural gas used as fuel by 10% compared to existing equipment, allowing us to reduce
CO2 emissions by an amount equal to 2% of the totalslated in our medium-term goal. The combined rated
output of the two turbines is 15 megawatts of power
and 70 tons of steam, which will greatly lower ourdependence on external suppliers.
The power plant which will install the gas turbines
also supplies utilities other than electricity and steam
such as pure water and nitrogen. We will all work as
a team to finish the turbine construction work without
stopping their supply. Additionally, there will be a period when external power reception will be suspended
during the work. We will cooperate within the plant
and with the head office to minimize its effects.
At the Chiba plant, we plan to continue to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society throughenvironmentally conscious business activities, including
this initiative.

VOICE

Searching for the mostsuitable energy supply
An energy supply is the foundation forthe creation of goods. We will advanceour energy saving and carbon reduction
initiatives to lower costs and contributeto stable production to create even morecompetitive products. The energy environment changes on a daily basis due tonational policies and technological trends
overseas. We will strive to accurately
grasp new information and provide theoptimal supply of energy to balance theplant’s supply and demand.

Junji Inoue
Energy Management Dept.
Manager

VOICE

Creating a positive cycleof improvements throughrepeated optimization
We are aiming to utilize our new findings
and establish the technology necessary
to realize Japan’s first four-year regular
repair work cycle. Removing the need totemporarily stop plant operations will stabilize supply and contribute to increasing

Environment

Value-Up

Reducing Yearly CO2 Emissions by 20,000 Tons

Toward a Sustainable Society
Implementing a High Efficiency Gar Turbine

competitiveness for all products that use
styrene monomers. We will also use thetime freed up as a result of promoting DX
to make further optimizations and create
a positive cycle of improvements.

Katsuhisa Uwaseki
Styrene Synthesis Section
Chief

Hidefumi Kobayashi
Styrene Synthesis Section
High efficiency gas turbine power
generation equipment (3D model)

2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

13

Human Resources Value-Up
A Friendly Working Environment for Everyone“Our own” Diversity,
Promoted by Everyone at the Plant

Human Resources

Value-UpI

14

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

using a cart allows for accident reductions. Tatsu-

Chiba Plant adopted a system of offering lots offor skilled female workers (at present,

moto of the Styrene Synthesis Section recalled,initial support and welcomed the female employ-managers) in FY2017. This was an experimental“When I first entered the company, I had to call on

ees. Imaizumi, the only female employee assigned

project aimed at securing excellent talent whichmale coworkers for help because I wasn’t strong

to the Electrical Instrumentation Department,

An Experience-Based Learning Facility

was started ahead of other hubs and which aims

enough to tighten large bolts by myself.” Kataoka

commented, “I wasn’t sure how to communicate

to resolve the difficulties in employing femaleof the Polymer Research Department added, “Theeffectively at first. However, everyone at the work-

Which Changes Mindsets and Behavior

workers at plants.

work platform might be fine from a male point ofplace talks to me without focusing on my gender

In addition to the tangibles required such as

view, but its height was sometimes insufficient for

and I really enjoy working here.”

women-only break rooms and changing rooms,

me.” We picked up case studies like these in “Close

Promoting diversity at each workplace andreducing workloads was also a major challenge.

Call Inspection Meetings” held in each group andbecoming a company that is rewarding to work

This also leads to increased safety. In FY2017, a

took countermeasures to improve the situation.

at and where each employee can develop is agroup in the Styrene Synthesis Section made a list

Kataoka commented on the effects of thevital part of the “Denka Value-Up” plan. The threeof “work difficult for women” with 46 entries. For

improvements by saying, “We weren’t sure howinterviewees shared a goal of improving further

example, we reduced the risk of getting one’s legs

to proceed at first, but by sharing what we werein order to be good role models for new femalecaught up in the water faucet piping by installing ahaving trouble with, we gradually realized a more

employees. The Chiba Plant will continue its efforts

new platform for putting waste liquid into a drum.

welcoming working environment.”

to be an environment where everyone can feel

Pellets used to be carried on one’s shoulders, but

Additionally, to prepare for the newcomers, thewelcome.

Safety Creation Centern May 2020, the Safety Creation Center openedat the Chiba Plant. Its facilities allow employees toexperience how scary an accident can feel and how
effective safety measures can be. These experiences
teach the importance of following proper safety procedures.
The purpose of the Safety Creation Center is tofoster a culture of safety, leading to zero accidents.
Thus far, we have strictly adhered to hard accident
prevention measures (against getting caught up in theequipment, falls, etc.). But because we were unable toreduce the number of accidents to zero, the necessityof changing employees’ mindsets in addition to fundamental hard measures began to be acknowledged.
The Safety Creation Center was created to provide
an opportunity for changing employees’ mindsets.
Each one of its programs were created with an emphasis on the employee’s point of view. For example,
the “cutting experience device” shows how easily athin steel plate can cut through gloves and aims toemphasize the importance of knowing to wear special
protective gear which can prevent these cuts. Also, the“elevated workplace experience device” lets employees feel the importance of the three-point suspension
system by climbing a ladder, and the “lack of oxygenAt the Chiba Plant, we started a hiring initiative

experience device” shows how vital it is to manage
oxygen concentration by having a candle slowly goout inside a box being deprived of oxygen. All of thesedevices aim to make employees aware of the dangers
at the workplace.
But the Safety Creation Center does not justoffer experience-based learning. Non-technical skills(NTS) such as communication abilities and ways toreflect on one’s behavior in order to increase safety
are provided. The aim is to prevent carelessness andoverconfidence by deepening understanding of one’s
own abilities.
At the Chiba Plant, a program involving all thesefacilities is provided to all employees, including thoseof partner companies. There were 1,200 participants
in FY2020. We plan to update the program and run
it again in FY2021. Participants have said that as aresult, they became aware that they had not paid asmuch attention to safety as they originally thought, andsome departments took extra measures such as using
pointing and calling to ensure safety. In the future,
we will continue to contribute to fostering a cultureof safety throughout the entire plant by providing
opportunities for participants to learn every year andimproving these devices and NTS.

VOICE

Safety is not established in
one day.
Realizing long and continuous activities
The name “Safety Creation Center” waschosen through a public vote at the
Chiba Plant from over 120 candidate
submissions. Fostering a culture of safety
is not something that can be done in one
or two years, nor can it be done solely by
the Environmental Security Department.
Only the steady efforts of everyone at the
Chiba Plant can achieve this goal. We willcontinue to make improvements in orderto fulfill the mission of our department,“Minimizing the number of accidents byfostering a culture of safety,” and continue
Safety Creation Center operations for as
long as possible.

Tsutomu Takahashi
Environmental Security Dept.
Manager
From the left, Mizuki Kataoka of the Polymer Research Dept., Mihoshi Tatsumoto of the Styrene Polymer Section, Seika
Imaizumi of the Electrical Instrumentation Dept.

*Masks were taken off for photos

2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

15

DENKA TOPICS
A Specialist’s
Perspective
Denka is striving to become aSpecialty-Fusion Company.
What do Denka’s specialists foresee
for the future?

Ensuring compliance with laws
and regulations
and passing on a culture of safety
Complying with laws and regulations is

Introducing Denka Group news topics from July to August 2021

Jul.

Denka Completes Construction of Facility to Boost
Production of MS Resin at Base in Singapore

Denka Singapore Private
Limited (DSPL) has completed construction of a
facility to boost productionof high functional transparent polymers (MS resin) at
its Seraya Plant. The facility
began operation on July 1.
This will double Denka’s
annual production capacity of MS resin from approx. 70,000 tons to approx.
140,000 tons, helping us to address the rising demand for goods such as lightguide plates for the backlights of LCD TVs and PC monitors.

Jul.

Denka Report 2021 PublishedThe Denka Report 2021 waspublished to provide stakeholders
with comprehensive information
on Denka’s activities from an
ESG management perspective. It
includes a message from Chairman Yamamoto, who is aiming toenhance corporate governanceunder the new board structure, an interview with President Imai, who is focusing
on the “Three Value-Ups” of business, environment, and human resources, and adetailed explanation of Denka’s mid- to long-term value creation initiatives.
Inquiries: denkareport@denka.co.jp

standard routine, but Suzuki knows better thananyone the importance of maintaining thatroutine. He is a safety and security specialist

Aug.

Denka Supplies COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Kits toJapanese Government

Aug.

Test Kit for Simultaneous Detection of COVID-19 and
Influenza Launched in Japan

responsible for checking the legal complianceof Denka’s plants. In 2018, he was recognized
as a Meister, a title given to Denka employeeswith advanced skills, knowledge, and experience.
When he was first put in charge of safety
and security, all he could do was sit back andwatch the legally required safety inspections
in silence. At the time, he lacked knowledge ofthe relevant laws and regulations. Now, after
studying up with his colleagues, he is able to

We have supplied QuickNaviTM-COVID19 Ag antigen
test kits to the Japanese
government. These kits
will be distributed by the
Ministry of Health, Labor andWelfare to medical institutions and geriatric healthcare facilities. Originallylaunched last August, this kit can rapidly determine if a person is infected with
COVID-19 without any special facilities.

On August 18, we launched
the QuickNavi™-Flu+COVID19
Ag test kit, which can simultaneously detect COVID-19 andinfluenza viruses with a single
device in approx. 10 minutes.
It is compatible with alpha,beta, gamma, delta, and kappa
variants of COVID-19.

proactively explain the plant’s safety efforts to

INF O R M AT I O N

outside inspectors. “If you wait for an accident
or disaster, then it’s already too late. That’sRadio programs and commercials provided by DENKA

why maintaining daily safety efforts is key.”His dream is to foster a culture of safety atSponsored programs

Chiba Plant and pass it on to the next generation. Today, Suzuki continues to keep a close
eye on plant operations while kindly watchingover his younger colleagues.

Hiroshi Suzuki
Environment and Safety Section,
Environment and Safety Dept.,
Chiba Plant, Denka
After joining the company in 1979, he was involved
in R&D of Clearen and production technology. In
2013, he was transferred to the Environment and
Safety Dept. and put in charge of safety at Chiba
Plant. He was certified as a Meister in 2018.

16

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

Denka MORNING VISION

Denka BUSINESS OUTLOOK

Holds phone interviews with experts and provides
commentary on the latest news.

Provides market information in anticipation of thefollowing week.

Mon – Thurs
7:40 – 7:45

Fri
7:50 – 7:55

Host: Tetsuya Bessho

Host: Jon KabiraRadio commercials

Start your day with some encouragement from
Denka’s radio commercials. Each day features adifferent famous quote to make your morning morepositive.
Tokyo FM Mon – Fri: 7:59
FM Niigata Mon – Fri: 7:09
FM Gunma Mon – Thurs: 6:54
Fri: 6:59
FM Tanto Mon – Fri: 7:07
J-WAVE
During the programs introducedon the left

2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

17

Anything is possible
Change of pace

I’m really into cooking! Lately, I’ve noticed
the importance of mirin (cooking sake)I’m a huge fan of the rock band X JAPAN!
Joined the company in September 2020. Focusing on strengthening
the internal control system and streamlining business management byimplementing ERP and establishing rules and regulations with otherdepartments.

Joined the company in April 2012. Responsible for sales of Denka Chloroprene, DPE Neoprene, and additives. His team flies around Southeast Asia
to expand CR sales for the Denka Group.

I always set goals for my work and strive to achieve them.

out lately, I’ve been practicing cooking. I tried stir-frying

overcome them. My current goal is working with other de-Vietnamof accomplishment and makes me want to challenge myself

How are things
in Japan,
Takashi?

even more the next day!

breakfast in order to be able to act andbut my wife wasn’t impressed. The only thing I could get her

Japanmake decisions flexibly. Before starting

to compliment was my inarizushi. The time I spend thinking

work, I prioritize the day’s tasks and create

things like “Next, I’ll try improving my fried tofu!” is a pleasantTakashi Kosuge

a to-do list. I also include the deadlines

distraction and keeps me motivated at work.

for completion to prevent delays. However,YK Akros

Do Quynh Nga

when you’re not sure how to proceed with

Denka Advanced Materials Vietnam

How are thingsin China,
Gu?
How are thingsin Vietnam,
Do?

I try to get enough sleep and eat a good

eggplant with meat and soybean paste and stuffed peppers,

partments to solve problems and contribute to the company.
goals. Crossing off each goal one by one gives me a sense

Joined the company in October 2016. Responsible for quality control of slit products andpurchasing of sheets and films for electronic
packaging materials. She is striving to improvecustomer satisfaction.

Making time for a change of pace. Since it’s difficult to go

When facing difficulties, I try to remember those goals andIn addition to my long-term goal, I also make lists of daily

I love eating good food!

LINK GL OBALLY,
LINK F UTURE

Group members around the world, working toward the future of Denka

China

Jonathan Park
Sales and Marketing
Denka Corporation

Denka Advanced Materials(Suzhou) Co., Ltd.

How are things
in Japan,Lin?

Enjoy the global lifeand cross-cultural learning!

What is the key to increasing motivation?

Joined the old Denka Seiken in 2013. He evaluates novel
technologies in the in vitro diagnostics field, provides support
for developing strategies for new medical-related businesses,
and prepares new IVD technologies for practical use.

I love animals and nature, and I love traveling too!

USA

Joined the company in May 2019. As an area sales manager in Malaysia’s southern
region, she is responsible for growing sales leads and pipelines, hitting sales
targets, and overseeing the branch office’s day-to-day operations.

When you need to take a rest, take a good rest.
When you work, do your best. A healthy work/lifebalance is the most important thing to maintain

I am a big fan of baseball!
I am Ohtani Park in Denka.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we were suddenly forced to work frommotivation and health. However, when working inhome and implement social distancing. To cope, I always try to stay
Joined the company in June, 2016. As a sales manager for AB, PVA
and ER, he promotes Denka’s products to new clients and helps tomaintain existing businesses.

How are thingsin the USA,
Jonathan?

positive and connected. I keep in close contact with my supervisor to get
home, I listen to my favorite peaceful music to encourage myself. I believe
the future depends on what you do today. If we thinkbased on urgency to give myself a sense of accomplish-

creatively, work collaboratively, and keep moving forward,

ment. Since I spend most of my time at my desk during

we can get through this and come out even stronger

the week, I focus on physical activities like baseball andthan before.

helps me to stay motivated during my work hours.

How are thingsin Malaysia,
Cathy?

advice on handling sales activities under the New Normal, and when I get

Every morning before starting work, I prioritize my goals

basketball on the weekend. Keeping physically healthy

and reconfirm your original goal.

Gu Mengli

The Denka Group has 6,000 employees around the world.
We posed the following question to members from different countries.

Theme

something, I think it is important to stop

MalaysiaJapan
Lin Yuhong

the healthcare field, always keep in mind that ourefforts can save lives. It means that we should
always do our best in our work.

Advanced Diagnostics
Business Development Dept.
Life Innovation
Denka

Cathy Chea Ee Wen
Sales Department - Johor Branch
Denka Construction Solutions Sdn Bhd“Give me a place to stand, and I shall move the world.” - Archimedes

18

The Denka Way | 2021 Autumn

2021 Autumn | The Denka Way

19