Mitsubishi Chemical to Discontinue MMA, Acrylonitrile Production at Hiroshima Plant

The Mitsubishi Chemical Group (MCG Group) announces to discontinue MMA monomer production by the ACH process. They are halting the production of acrylonitrile and acrylonitrile derivatives at the Mitsubishi Chemical Hiroshima Plant (Otake City, Hiroshima Prefecture).

Following the discontinuance of production, the MCG Group will also withdraw from the chelating agent and acetonitrile businesses.

Reason for Discontinuance of Production:

The MCG Group produces MMA monomers by three different methods (ACH process, C4 process, and Alpha technology) at its MMA monomer production bases around the world. It also enhances the supply chain in response to the demand-supply situation and trends with regard to materials used for production.

For the acrylonitrile business, the MCG Group has two production bases in Japan. These bases supply acrylonitrile and acrylonitrile derivatives. They also supply a byproduct from the acrylonitrile production process as a material for MMA production by the ACH process.

The company has taken the decision to enhance the Group’s competitiveness in the MMA and acrylonitrile businesses. It will also optimize the supply system.

However, the MCG Group will continue to produce MMA monomers produced by the C4 process at the Hiroshima Plant. It will also continue production of acrylonitrile and sodium glycinate at the Okayama Plant and acrylamide at the Kanto Plant.

Products to be discontinued at the Hiroshima Plant:

MMA monomers produced by the ACH method

Acrylonitrile

Acrylonitrile derivatives (chelating agent, acetonitrile and ammonium sulfate)

Production of the products listed above will be discontinued in July 2024.

Source: Mitsubishi Chemical Group/spcialchem.com