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Kuraray

Kuraray pioneered the development of polyvinyl alcohol (KURARAY POVAL™) in the early 1950s in a small plant in Japan.

Now, Kuraray is a world leader in specialty chemicals and functional materials. Kuraray transforms materials for the future and for the ever-changing world. It is committed to developing materials that deliver quality and value while helping customers differentiate themselves from their competition. Production facilities are located in the United States, Germany, Singapore, and Japan. Its plant in Houston, Texas, will be manufacturing these PVOH grades.

KURARAY POVAL™ is the brand name of Kuraray’s globally produced polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). It features water-solubility, excellent film-forming characteristics, high tensile strength and elasticity, as well as resistance against organic solvents and dispersing power. These physical and chemical properties make PVOH very versatile for a wide range of applications, especially as a base resin for seed coatings.

POVAL™ is used to protect seeds from damage during handling (dust off and chipping) but also improves the cosmetic appearance. POVAL resins are excellent binders for active ingredients to support and improve germination of the seedling. Additionally, POVAL is biodegradable and safe for the environment.

EXCEVAL™ is the brand name for Kuraray’s hydrophobically modified polyvinyl alcohol especially designed for the requirements of “high water resistance.” Although EXCEVAL™ is readily water-soluble like any fully hydrolyzed KURARAY POVAL™ grade it absorbs less humidity in comparison to other KURARAY POVAL™ grades. It provides all the benefits of POVAL™ along with reduced dust-off when used as the base resin for seed coatings.