大王製紙 has developed ELLEX-R, a new material using wood-derived cellulose nanofiber (CNF). The two types, ELLEX-R67 and ELLEX-R50, are expected to be used to reduce the weight and improve the durability of automotive parts, increase tire rigidity, and improve the insulation and strength of housing materials.
Cellulose nanofiber (CNF) is a next-generation fibrous material produced from plant resources such as wood. In Japan, where forests cover approximately 70% of the country’s land area, it is attracting attention as a domestic resource. CNF is lightweight, strong, has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, is biodegradable and renewable, and is expected to serve as a material with a lower environmental impact.
CNF is currently used across a broad range of fields, including reducing the weight and improving the durability of automotive parts, increasing tire rigidity, and improving the insulation and strength of housing materials. Applications in electrical appliances and food packaging films are also advancing.
大王製紙 offers ELLEX-R67, a masterbatch with a 67% CNF concentration, and ELLEX-R50, a product for dry blending with a 50% concentration. In July 2025, a commercial plant with an annual production capacity of 2,000 t began operations at the Mishima Mill, supporting stable supply and strong cost performance.