The Shin-Etsu Group has designated innovative R&D as a crucial asset that paves the way for continuous growth. Accordingly, Shin-Etsu has established an organization consisting of more than 900 researchers and allocated $227 million for R&D activities in FY2003. The Group carries out its vigorous R&D activities primarily through 10 research centers operated by Group companies nationwide. 

Our R&D activities are guided by the fundamental policies of concentration, originality, raising value added-adding value, and speed. The ultimate goal is to quickly develop profitable, original materials and products through the fusion of our existing proprietary technological expertise with current market requirements. 

Our highest research priority is to our existing business segments. Shin-Etsu makes every effort to understand our customers’ needs. By working closely with marketing, research and manufacturing we are able to continue to increase the level of our world-class technologies, product quality and cost competitiveness. 

New business research is directed by the Z Committee, reporting directly to the President of Shin-Etsu. Its goal is to identify new product needs and is essential to move them from a product development stage to commercialization as quickly as possible. This committee has compiled a solid record of achievements that include Photoresists for excimer lasers, advanced Photomask blanks, and SIFEL; a liquid Fluoroelastomer developed using our proprietary technologies.