The History of Krazy Glue, Its Inventor Kaoru Kimura, and the Legacy of Innovation at Toagosei
Toagosei Co., Ltd., a renowned Japanese chemical company, has a longstanding history of pioneering innovation, especially in the development of cyanoacrylate adhesives, commonly known today as instant glue. Central to this innovation is Kaoru Kimura, a brilliant scientist and graduate of Kyoto University who played a critical role in transforming the adhesive industry. His work laid the foundation for the global success of Krazy Glue and Aron Alpha, Toagosei’s signature adhesive brands.
Early 1960s
Kimura, an expert in synthetic organic chemistry, joined Toagosei, at a time when the company was exploring research on acrylic acid esters.
1963
Kimura’s team developed “Aron Alpha,” a superior adhesive that could bond diverse materials like plastics, leather, wood, and fabrics, making it more versatile than its predecessor. Initially used in industrial applications, its uses expanded into medical fields and fishing industries, gaining widespread recognition.However, it had limitations, primarily its inability to bond a variety of materials and its short shelf life. Kimura’s research at Toagosei changed that.
1971
Under Kimura’s guidance, Toagosei had perfected Aron Alpha for consumer use, addressing key issues like product stability and container design, and it quickly became a popular household product.
1973
Toagosei began exporting the adhesive to the U.S. under the now-famous name “Krazy Glue,” where it became synonymous with strong, fast-acting adhesive solutions.
1991
Okazaki, the current President of Toagosei America Inc. joined Toagosei, drawn to the company in part by the legacy of Kimura’s groundbreaking work. Although Okazaki worked in a different research group focused on photocurable resins—another area of innovation involving acrylic acid esters—Kimura’s achievements left a lasting impression on him.
1993
Krazy Glue ground breaking ceremony with Toagosei and Borden Executives.
1993
Krazy Glue ground breaking ceremony group photo.
1993
Krazy Glue property announcement sign board.
1994
Mr. Arisawa, Plant Manager of New Krazy Glue factory in West Jefferson, Ohio speaking at the introductary gathering.
1994
Krazy Glue Company plant opening ceremony.
1994
Krazy Glue Company plant opening ceremony.
1995
Ceremonial Tree Plant during Toagosei Japan President, Mr. Akira Senda, visit to the new Krazy Glue factory in Ohio.
1995
Toagosei America (Krazy Glue Co) associate group photo with President Senda.
1995
Krazy Glue Company production floor demonstrating Krazy Glue 2 gm filling machine.
2016
Okazaki was assigned to lead the research and development of Aron Alpha, the very product that had established Kimura’s legacy. During this time, Okazaki received praise from international researchers who had studied Kimura’s patents and recognized the importance of his work in the adhesive industry. This recognition reinforced Okazaki’s dedication to expanding Toagosei’s influence globally, culminating in his rise to President of Toagosei America.
Today
Both Krazy Glue and Aron Alpha stand as symbols of Toagosei’s commitment to innovation, providing fast, reliable, and environmentally friendly adhesive solutions for both industrial and consumer applications. These adhesives not only contribute to greater manufacturing efficiency by eliminating the need for heat or light curing, but they also support the reduction of CO2 emissions, making them sustainable choices for modern industry.