KCC Silicone Information

Today’s building materials are essentially blends or composites of organic and inorganic chemical products. KCC has long taken pride in its position as market leader in these chemical fields. Up until recently, the two divisions within KCC operated separately, but now, they have been merged together to provide enhanced synergy, cost efficiency, and service to our multitude of highly valued customers. Consequently, Korea Chemical Co. Ltd. has merged with Kumgang Chemical Co. Ltd. into a single legal entity entitled Kumgang Korea Chemical Co. Ltd., but known as KCC for short. The technical integration of the organic and inorganic chemistry business under the same roof ensures better products, better technical service, and more competitive prices. It is KCC’s intention to continue to be a worldwide player of the industry in the 21st century and continue to invest in innovative R&D activities. Until recently, a handful of multinationals from the US, Japan, Germany and France have monopolized the technology of this industry and have avoided transferring manufacturing facilities and technology. Considering that Korea depends solely on imported raw materials for silicone, import substitution will not only improve price competitiveness and pricing power, but also it will provide an opportunity to upgrade precision chemical technology as a basic national industry that will lead the growth of related industries, thereby enhancing Korea’s image and credit rating. KCC recently began full-scale operations at its Jeonju silicone monomer plant. KCC invested over 200 billion won in R&D and 300 billion won in equipment over 13 years. The plant was completed based on KCC’s own technology after a series of pilot tests. Starting with the opening of this silicone monomer plant capable of producing 25,000 tons a year, KCC has production capacity to 75,000 tons and will expand to 175,000 tons in 2011. As a result, KCC will become one of the top 4 silicone makers in the world.