US films producer MonoSol, a division of Japanese chemicals company Kuraray, is investing $72 million to build an additional manufacturing facility in Lebanon, Indiana.

Construction will begin in the second quarter of 2018 with operations scheduled to start in mid-to late 2020. The facility will have the potential to be expanded t in the future.

Capacity figures were not disclosed, but MonoSol said the new plant would add roughly 18% to its existing global output, allowing it to keep pace with growth in several business segments and increase operational efficiency and material flow.

“We are making a significant investment in our water-soluble film technology in response to continued global demand and the growing needs of our customers for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions,” said Scott Bening, MonoSol’s president and CEO.

The dissolvable films are used in pre-portioned packets for various applications, including detergents and cleaners, food ingredients, agrochemicals, cosmetics and personal care products, and pool & spa chemicals. MonoSol said other growing segments include transfer printing, countertops and solid surface release films, composites fabrication in aerospace, embroidery backing and healthcare containment applications.

Once the project is completed, MonoSol will have four plants in Indiana, USA, along with sites in Hartlebury, UK, and Saijo, Japan, which are dedicated to producing water-soluble films.