SP Samhwa has successfully localized high-performance optical-grade curing agents, a material that had been heavily dependent on Japanese imports.
SP Samhwa announced Monday that it has completed development of a "manufacturing method for high-purity optical polyurethane resin" and other technologies, acquired two related domestic patents, and begun mass production.
High-performance optical-grade curing agents are advanced chemical materials essential for optical components, display films, and high-performance adhesives. They are widely used across industries requiring a high degree of precision, including lenses for smartphones and other electronic devices, eyeglasses, and electronic materials.
SP Samhwa succeeded in developing the high-performance optical-grade curing agent after five years of research and development through the Materials and Components Technology Development Program led by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE).
The product had been a core material exclusively supplied by Japanese chemical companies in the global market. SP Samhwa said the development has not only resolved supply concerns for Korea's advanced industries but also laid the groundwork for entry into overseas markets.
The high-performance optical-grade curing agent is a specialty polyurethane material designed based on xylylene diisocyanate, reacted with polyhydric alcohols to enhance commercial applicability.
Conventional polyurethane curing agents had limitations in transparency, color stability, and adhesion depending on their chemical structure. SP Samhwa addressed these shortcomings by minimizing yellowing and achieving transparency that remains unchanged over time.
The company also developed a technology that effectively controls heat generated during the urethanization reaction in the manufacturing process by utilizing acetate-based compounds. In addition, it achieved product purity of 99.5% or higher by removing unreacted substances through a multi-stage thin-film distillation process.
"By localizing a core material that had been dependent on Japanese imports, we have resolved supply chain issues for Korea's advanced industries and secured technological independence and leadership," an SP Samhwa official said. "We plan to expand exports to the global market beyond the domestic market."