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For a century, Kuraray has been shaping the future of technical fibres, from Japan’s first synthetic fibre to today’s advanced portfolio of melt-spun PVA and LCP fibres designed for demanding engineering applications.
These fibres represent the next evolution in performance and functionality, combining mechanical strength, durability, and aesthetics to meet the demands of modern technical textiles.
Meet our experts and discover how VECTRAN™ MF and VINARL™ are setting new benchmarks in technical fibre engineering.
Founded in 1926 in Kurashiki, Japan, Kuraray began with the production of rayon before pioneering Japan’s first fully synthetic fibre with the development of KURALON™.
Celebrating 100 years, Kuraray operates globally while remaining true to its roots, with production in Japan. Today Kuraray’s Industrial Fibres division offers a unique range of technical materials, from KURALON™, used as an asbestos replacement in cement, to our newest fibre VECTRAN™ MF, a piece‑dyeable high‑performance fibre.
KURALON™ - The Original PVA Fibre
The first Japanese synthetic fibre, is based on PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) and has been continuously improved and developed for over 60 years. Today, KURALON™ is used across a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, and aquaculture.
KURALON K-II™ - Second Generation PVA Fibre
Second generation PVA staple fibre, used to create spun yarn that can temporarily support fabric during knitting or weaving and can be easily removed in water without damaging the material. It comes in grades that dissolve at different temperatures, letting manufacturers control when the fibre disappears. After acting as a support layer, it dissolves cleanly, leaving only the finished structure behind.
Highlight: VINARL™ - Flame-retardant PVA Fibre
A flame‑retardant polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibre designed for protective clothing and flame‑retardant workwear. With flame resistance engineered into the fibre, VINARL™ provides protection and comfort while retaining its flame‑retardant properties throughout its lifetime. The latest version is available in a wide range of dope‑dyed colors for added design flexibility.
Polyester Short Cut Fibres – Papermaking & Filtration
Dispersion‑optimized technical fibres developed for papermaking and filtration applications. Produced using proprietary spinning technology, they offer excellent water dispersion, controlled fineness, and stable fibre behaviour. These fibres are used in filtration media, RO membrane support layers, and tea bags where uniformity, wet strength, and reliable processing are required.
PEI (Polyetherimide) Fibres – Thermoplastic, Inherently Flame-retardant
High‑performance thermoplastic fibre designed for flame‑retardant and heat‑resistant materials. PEI fibre is typically used in applications, such as, PPE, technical textiles, and furniture.
Melt Blown Non-Woven Fabrics – Wide Polymer Choice
Kuraray’s melt blown ultra-fine non-woven fabrics are used for filtration and as adhesive sheets. Produced through a controlled melt blown process from a broad polymer portfolio, including specialty materials such as thermoplastic olefin (TPO), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), and thermoplastic urethane (TPU), these fabrics can be engineered with varying weight, thickness, and permeability. They are used in high efficiency air filtration, medical tapes and bandages, and composite adhesion layers.
VECTRAN™ - High-Tenacity Fibre
A high‑performance liquid crystal polymer (LCP) fibre known for exceptionally high tensile strength, low moisture absorption, and outstanding dimensional and thermal stability. Its rigid molecular structure provides excellent abrasion, cut, and chemical resistance, even in harsh environments. VECTRAN™ is used across demanding applications such as ropes, cables, composites, protective equipment, outdoor textiles, and aerospace systems.
Highlight: VECTRAN™ MF - Piece-dyeable PEN Sheath
A multi‑filament LCP fibre designed to enable true piece dyeing while maintaining LCP‑level performance. A polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) sheath applied to each filament allows uniform dye uptake and improved yarn handling during spinning and weaving. It is well suited for technical and protective textiles requiring vibrant colours, including fluorescent shades, together with high strength and long‑term durability.
VECTRAN™ UM - Ultra-high Modulus
An ultra‑high‑modulus LCP fibre developed for applications demanding high stiffness, minimal elongation, and exceptional load stability. With very low creep and excellent thermal resistance, it is ideal for ropes, umbilicals, composite reinforcement, and other technical systems where rigidity and long‑term structural reliability are critical.
CLARINO™ - Luxurious Microfibre Non-woven Fabric
Under its umbrella brand CLARINO, Kuraray produces speciality materials made from the world’s finest microfibre suede, using advanced microfibre and chemical technologies. Lightweight, supple and durable, CLARINO is colourfast, breathable, water-repellent, weather-resistant and washable, and available in a wide range of colours. This sustainable non-woven material matches, and often surpasses, the functional and aesthetic qualities of genuine leather. It is used in applications including bags, gloves, clothing, footwear, sports equipment and interior components across technical textile and lifestyle markets.
Cellulose Acetate Fibre
Bio-based material derived from wood and cotton, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic fibres. Produced via a solvent-free melt spinning process, it reduces environmental impact and biodegrades under specific conditions, including seawater, helping limit long-term fibre accumulation from washed garments. Its cross-shaped structure delivers a smooth feel, natural lustre, effective moisture absorption, quick drying, and machine washability, making it ideal for lifestyle and low-impact sportswear, while its antibacterial properties support use in personal hygiene products like face masks.
Phenoxy Nonwoven Sheets
are designed to improve the surface quality of composite materials. Made from phenoxy polymer, which blends seamlessly with epoxy resins, these sheets are applied to prepreg layers to help release trapped air during curing. This enhances resin flow and reduces void formation, resulting in a smoother composite surface that requires less polishing.
Experience the next generation of high-performance fibres. From KURALON™ and VECTRAN™ to the launch of VECTRAN™ MF and our innovative sustainable fibres, we’re redefining what technical textiles can achieve.
Let’s shape the future of engineering excellence together.
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