Solvay inaugurates PTFE Micronised Powder production plant in PRC

In a bid to strengthen its position in the Asian markets and serve the dynamic local demand for innovative and high performance materials, Solvay has inaugurated its new Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)) Micronised Powder production unit in the People's Republic of China.

For more details on Solvay inaugurates PTFE Micronised Powder production plant in PRC click here

Update on Hurricane Ike recovery at DuPont and Rohm and Haas

Post Hurricane Ike, as recovery efforts are ably in progress, DuPont has announced that all 2,300 DuPont employees in the storm affected area are safe. As Hurricane Ike neared the region, 9 DuPont mannufacturing sites, one agricultural research site and one office location were shut down.

For more details on Update on Hurricane Ike recovery at DuPont and Rohm and Haas click here

Marubeni secures contract for entire propylene output from first Vietnamese refinery

For the years 2009 and 2010, Japanese trader Marubeni has secured an option to market the entire propylene output of Dung Quat - Vietnam´s first state-owned refinery. The 140,000 bpd refinery, owned bby PetroVietnam, is scheduled to come on stream in February 2009.

For more details on Marubeni secures contract for entire propylene output from first Vietnamese refinery click here

Saudi Kayan in US$6 bn financial deal for new complex

In a bid to raise funds to finance construction of the world;s largest integrated petrochemical complex, Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Company-a SABIC affiliate, has entered into a US$6 bln financing arraangement.

For more details on Saudi Kayan in US$6 bn financial deal for new complex click here

Environmentally sound components to make cell phones biodegradable

Sony Ericsson plans to scrutinize the possibility of using environmental friendly components in its cell phones. The GreenHeart concept will research green technologies, using bio-plastic housings, reecycled plastic keypads, zero charger with 3.

For more details on Environmentally sound components to make cell phones biodegradable click here

India's Cosmo Films to ramp up BOPP film packaging by March 2010

Indian packaging film maker, Cosmo Films Ltd reportedly plans to outlay INR 2.2 bln by March 2010 to expand its bi-axially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film packaging to 138,000 metric tons from the current 58,000 metric tons.

For more details on India's Cosmo Films to ramp up BOPP film packaging by March 2010 click here

New thin gauge stretch packaging film based on Enable mPE technology

'MaxStretch,' a thin gauge stretch packaging film based on a formulation that includes ExxonMobil Chemical's Enable metallocene polyethylene (mPE) technology has been launched. The MaxStretch film strructure allows for no pre-stretching, and it is positioned as an ideal pallet packaging solution to secure, protect and stabilise palletised goods during transportation.

For more details on New thin gauge stretch packaging film based on Enable mPE technology click here

Composites to build tank-traversing bridge for US Army

Axion International Holdings, Inc., a converter recycled plastics into high value structural products, has received a second order from US Army for a new bridge to be constructed using its patented bllend of recycled composite materials.

For more details on Composites to build tank-traversing bridge for US Army click here

Slim margins to case PCS curtail Jurong Island naphtha capacity

Petrochemical Corporation of Singapore (PCS), a 50:50 JV between Japan-Singapore Petrochemicals Company Limited (JSPC) and Shell Eastern Petroleum (Pte) Ltd is reportedly seeking to curtail naphtha prroduction at its 1.

For more details on Slim margins to case PCS curtail Jurong Island naphtha capacity click here

New technology to tackle high noise levels, low frequency vibration and the like

South Africa's Sasol Polymers is reportedly expected to substitute the elevated flare at its Sasolburg-based monomer ethylene plant with a new Totally Enclosed Ground Flare (TEGF) by April 2009 to tacckle problems including high noise levels, low frequency vibration, smoke pollution and the like.

For more details on New technology to tackle high noise levels, low frequency vibration and the like click here

Saudi Arabia to invest US$318 bln in energy sector

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has estimated an investment outlay of US$318 bln in energy over the next few years. Mega scale infrastructural developments triggered by economic reforms are underway in full tthrottle along with massive oil revenues in the face of globally high crude prices.

For more details on Saudi Arabia to invest US$318 bln in energy sector click here

Re-evaluation of alternative feedstock to naphtha

Record high prices of oil and naphtha- used as a key feedstock for steam crackers in the petrochemical industry are inducing the industry to re-evaluate alternative approaches to acquiring inputs suppply.

For more details on Re-evaluation of alternative feedstock to naphtha click here

Vitol to construct blending and storage terminal in Malaysia

Worldwide conglomerate of oil trading and related businessses, the Vitol Group recently signed an agreement with Seaport World Wide Sdn Bhd under which Vitol will lease land to construct an oil terminnal in Tanjung Bin, Malaysia.

For more details on Vitol to construct blending and storage terminal in Malaysia click here

India's naphtha exports to S.Korea could rise as a result of free trade deal

India and South Korea have arrived at a free trade deal that could reportedly open their markets effective from next year and increase the US$11 bln annual trade between two countries by a third. Syntthetic resins and petroleum products are amongst South Korea's main exports to India while South Korea's largest import from India includes naphtha, representing more than half of imports from India in 2007.

For more details on India's naphtha exports to S.Korea could rise as a result of free trade deal click here

New catalyst for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis to aid gas-to-olefin production

Experts from BASF's Catalysis Research in Ludwigshafen have now developed a new catalyst for Fischer-Tropsch process that allows the dedicated production of olefins for the company's production Verbunnd.

For more details on New catalyst for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis to aid gas-to-olefin production click here

Oct lifting naphtha witnesses heavy discounts in Asia

Owing to the Asian naphtha glut and a sluggish demand, the naphtha market witnessed heavy discounts for October lifting cargoes. After a heavy discount by Lotte Daesan on its purchase of 50,000 tons oof H1 November arrival naphtha, Kuwait's KPC sold 50,000-75,000 tons of naphtha to India's Reliance at a discount of US$6.

For more details on Oct lifting naphtha witnesses heavy discounts in Asia click here

American Fibers & Yarns Co. to shut down plant due to mounting raw material costs

American Fibers and Yarns Company (AF&Y), the world's leading supplier of solution dyed filament yarns has reportedly decided to shut its Afton manufacturing facility in Virginia from Oct 17, 2008. Ass per an advisor with the company, the prime reason for plant's close down is the staggering rise in prices of polypropylene which is used in number of products.

For more details on American Fibers & Yarns Co. to shut down plant due to mounting raw material costs click here

Perstorp increases prices for HDI, IPDI monomers & derivatives

Swedish Chemical Group, Perstorp will raise prices for its HDI (Hexamethylene Di-isocyanate) and IPDI (Isophore Di-isocyanate) monomers and derivatives effective from Oct 15, 2008 or as contracts permmit.

For more details on Perstorp increases prices for HDI, IPDI monomers & derivatives click here

World's largest Injection Blow Moulding machine unveiled

US-headquartered Jomar Corporation, a global manufacturer of Injection Blow Molding (IBM) machinery has unveiled the world's largest IBM model named 'M-175' that emphasizes space, energy, and maintenaance savings.

For more details on World's largest Injection Blow Moulding machine unveiled click here

Construction kicks off at AERT's new recycling plant

Advanced Environmental Recycling Technologies, Inc. (AERT), a pioneer in use of recycled polyethylene plastic in the manufacture of composite building materials, has commenced construction work for itts new state-of-the-art 70,000 sq.

For more details on Construction kicks off at AERT's new recycling plant click here

Sibur subsidiary selects Unipol process for PE plant

Russia's leading producer of polyethylene, Tomskneftekhim has selected Univation Technologies' Unipol Polyethylene production process for the company's newly planned PE plant in Tomsk, Russia. Tomskneeftekhim, the subsidiary of the Sibur Holding chemicals group will have a production capacity of 140,000 tpa PE resins at its Tomsk-based plant.

For more details on Sibur subsidiary selects Unipol process for PE plant click here

20 subsidiaries of Iran's NPC listed for private ownership

As many as 20 subsidiaries of Iran's National Petrochemical Company (NPC) have been shortlisted for private ownership, a senior authority with NPC said. Amongst the ones which are wholly privatized innclude Carbon Iran, Farabi, Abadan, Kharg, Isfahan, Arak, Shiraz, Razi and Polika Karaj.

For more details on 20 subsidiaries of Iran's NPC listed for private ownership click here

Sinopec & SK to form JV for ethylene project in China

China's largest oil refiner, Sinopec and South Korea's SK have reportedly come to an agreement to construct an 800,000 tpa ethylene project in China. The ethylene project is expected to be built in Wuuhan, the capital city of central China's Hubei province.

For more details on Sinopec & SK to form JV for ethylene project in China click here

Titan Chemicals to enter Middle East supply chain

Malaysia's largest integrated producer of olefins and polyolefins, Titan Chemicals Corp Bhd has opened a new subsidiary in Dubai to extend its business development activities in the Gulf region. Accorrding to a senior executive, the company will investigate supply chain and opportunities in the Middle East region which is expected to be a core of petrochem industry in the near future.

For more details on Titan Chemicals to enter Middle East supply chain click here

New eco friendly material for thermoformed packaging uses 100% rPET

American packaging company MHI has recently announced to offer thermoformed packaging produced with Good Earth (tm) 100% recycled PET (rPET). Good Earth - the company's proprietary line of eco-friendlly packaging - is not only made 100% from recycled plastic bottles but also is biodegradable, compostable, recyclable and has been approved by FDA for food and non food applications.

For more details on New eco friendly material for thermoformed packaging uses 100% rPET click here

New names for Evonik Specialty Resins

Owing to the integration of the Specialty Resins into the Tego product range beginning October 1st, Evonik Tego Chemie GmbH will supply the Synthetic Resin under the name TEGO® AddBond and Adhesion Reesin under the name TEGO® VariPlus.

For more details on New names for Evonik Specialty Resins click here

Oil prices dip as uncertainty prevails over financial bailout package

New concerns have arisen over the financial bailout package - sending oil prices lower. Uncertainty shrouds the receipt of Congressional approval to the US$700 bln financial plan, dashing hopes and puushing oil prices one dollar lower.

For more details on Oil prices dip as uncertainty prevails over financial bailout package click here

Maruzen reduces naphtha cracker run rate, Mitsui to shut Chiba cracker

Faced with deteriorating demand, particularly from buyers in China, Japanese feedstock producers are either scaling back operating rates or carrying out repair and maintenance shutdowns.
Maruzen Petrrochemical has scaled back operating rate at its 525,000 tpa naphtha cracker by about 10%.

For more details on Maruzen reduces naphtha cracker run rate, Mitsui to shut Chiba cracker click here

5 partners to assess 14-15 mln ton refinery and petrochem project at Vizag

In November this year, the five partners - Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, L. N. Mittal, Total, GAIL (India) and Oil India will review the project structure and funding of the 14-15 mln ton refinery and petrochemical project at Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

For more details on 5 partners to assess 14-15 mln ton refinery and petrochem project at Vizag click here

Thai petrochem and plastic industry petitions WTO

Thailand's petrochemical and plastic industry has petitioned the WTO over US using of a "zeroing" anti-dumping duty on Thai goods. This means that USA will assign "0? points to goods that are not dumpped by Thai processors.

For more details on Thai petrochem and plastic industry petitions WTO click here

New Agricultural Films for Crop Protection

There are changes in the market for wide, specialty film for the horticultural markets that will be described by Andrew Reynold's at the international Agricultural Film 2009 conference being organisedd by Applied Market Information from 24-26 February at the Fira Palace Hotel in Barcelona, Spain.

For more details on New Agricultural Films for Crop Protection click here

Toyota Tsusho to market in Asia PE produced from sugarcane by Braskem SA

Toyota Tsusho Corp - Japanese trader and group company of Toyota Motor Corp; will sell in Asia, including Japan, polyethylene to be produced from sugarcane by leading Brazilian petrochemical firm Brasskem SA by 2011.

For more details on Toyota Tsusho to market in Asia PE produced from sugarcane by Braskem SA click here

Taiwanese petrochem majors to tap emerging markets and cut output to counter lackluster demand from China

Lackluster buying sentiments that are prevalent in Chinese polymer markets have had a dramatic effect on demand as well as prices in the Asian region. Demand for polymers faces a major setback in Chinna as uncertainty prevails in the US economic scenario- the largest market for Chinese plastics processors.

For more details on Taiwanese petrochem majors to tap emerging markets and cut output to counter lackluster demand from China click here

Sinopec Fujian Petrochemical signs gas supply JV with Germany's Linde Group

Germany's Linde Group has recently inked a JV with Sinopec Fujian Petrochemical for a long term supply of industrial gases to customers in the province of Fujian in southeastern China. The 50:50 JV beetween two sides will set up a new plant, Fujian Linde FPCL Gases for production and distribution of nitrogen, oxygen and argon to customers in and around Fujian province.

For more details on Sinopec Fujian Petrochemical signs gas supply JV with Germany's Linde Group click here

India's CPCL has long term plans to build 15 mln tpa refinery and petrochem complex in Tamil Nadu

India's Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd (CPCL), now a part of state-owned Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), is reportedly having long term plans to outlay US$10 bln in order to establish a 15 mln tpa reefinery and petrochemical complex in Tamil Nadu.

For more details on India's CPCL has long term plans to build 15 mln tpa refinery and petrochem complex in Tamil Nadu click here

Massive petrochem projects in Saudi Arabia race against time

The progress of Saudi Arabia's two most significant up-coming downstream petrochemicals projects is hindered by climbing costs and unexpected hold ups. The PetroRabigh - Sumitomo Chemicals joint ventture worth US$10.

For more details on Massive petrochem projects in Saudi Arabia race against time click here

Amcor opens new state-of-the-art facility in Ireland

One of the largest suppliers of flexible packing, Amcor Flexibles has recently set underway its new EUR 5 mln purpose built, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Sligo, Ireland. The 25,000 sq ftt world class manufacturing facility houses new printing, pouch making and slitting equipment in a classified clean room manufacturing environment on a Greenfield site.

For more details on Amcor opens new state-of-the-art facility in Ireland click here

LyondellBasell issues warning concerning deceptive emails

LyondellBasell Industries have come across several fraudulent and deceptive "phishing" communications circulating via e-mail using the LyondellBasell and Lyondell Chemical brands. The e-mail scams summmarized below do not include all hoaxes in circulation that mentions company's name or brand.

For more details on LyondellBasell issues warning concerning deceptive emails click here

Germany to have 3 new bioplastics production facilities

Three companies have decided to invest in the German bioplastics industry : BASF, Pyramid Bioplastics (Australia based) and Plantic Technologies Ltd. (Swiss company). This will result in a substantiall increase in production of bioplastics in Germany.

For more details on Germany to have 3 new bioplastics production facilities click here

Apparent hiatus in rising trend in German plastics and rubber machinery

The German plastics and rubber machinery sector has witnessed healthy growth rates for several years. After attaining an all time high output in 2007 and Q1-2008, growth has come to a standstill. It iis now apparent that the upward trend in German plastics and rubber machinery manufacturing is over, as per figures by VDMA.

For more details on Apparent hiatus in rising trend in German plastics and rubber machinery click here

Ticona plans 7000 tpa Vectra liquid crystal polymer facility in Nanjing

Ticona, the engineering polymers business of Celanese Corp. plans to build a new 7000 tpa Vectra liquid crystal polymer production facility in Nanjing, China. The new plant will be sited along with thhe Celanese integrated chemical complex in Nanjing.

For more details on Ticona plans 7000 tpa Vectra liquid crystal polymer facility in Nanjing click here

PPA polymer developed to replace metals in fuel systems

Germany based Evonik has developed Vestamid HT plus - a polyphthalamide (PPA) semi-crystalline polymer to replace metals in pump and filter-system housings for fuel systems. Its is stable at high tempperatures, has excellent mechanical properties, good dimensional stability, high chemical resistance and is corrosion resistant.

For more details on PPA polymer developed to replace metals in fuel systems click here

India's GAIL to ramp up polymer capacity at Pata Petrochemical Complex

India's state-owned Gas Authority of India Ltd. (GAIL) is reportedly expecting to increase the combined polymer (HDPE and LLDPE) production capacity at its Pata Petrochemical Complex in Uttar Pradesh..

For more details on India's GAIL to ramp up polymer capacity at Pata Petrochemical Complex click here

New fuel-efficient, high-performance automotive composites

SABIC Innovative Plastics and Azdel, Inc. have launched their new hybrid thermoplastic composite grade, IXIS® 157 composite, a continuous glass-fiber-reinforced sandwich composite for automotive horizzontal body panels.

For more details on New fuel-efficient, high-performance automotive composites click here

Vietnam to house a 100 mln tpa bio-ethanol plant by 2010

Three subsidiaries of state-owned oil and gas group, PetroVietnam have decided to invest US$120 mln to construct a new bio-ethanol plant in Dung Quat Economic Zone in central Quang Ngai province of Viietnam.

For more details on Vietnam to house a 100 mln tpa bio-ethanol plant by 2010 click here

New LDPE plant in Slovak Republic selects LyondellBasell's Lupotech T technology

Slovnaft Petrochemicals, a subsidiary of the MOL Group, has selected LyondellBasell's Lupotech T technology for its new 220,000 tpa low density polyethylene (LDPE) plant planned to be built in Bratisllava, Slovak Republic which is expected to start operations in 2012.

For more details on New LDPE plant in Slovak Republic selects LyondellBasell's Lupotech T technology click here

New office bearers for Organisation of Plastics Processors of India (OPPI) elected

In the Organisation of Plastics Processors of India (OPPI) Executive Committee meeting held on Wednesday 17th September, 2008, the following bearers were elected for the year 2008-09 :
1. Mr. Shiv SSingh Mehta (KIRTI INDUSTRIES (INDIA) LTD): PRESIDENT
2.

For more details on New office bearers for Organisation of Plastics Processors of India (OPPI) elected click here

World's first commercial plastic electronics manufacturing facility set underway in Germany

The world's leader in plastic electronics, Plastic Logic recently set underway its state-of-the-art commercial scale plastic electronics manufacturing facility in Dresden, Germany. The Dresden factoryy is a fully automated and integrated facility that will begin volume production of groundbreaking displays based on Plastic Logic's patented and proprietary plastic electronics technology.

For more details on World's first commercial plastic electronics manufacturing facility set underway in Germany click here

New 100% biodegradable plastic bags using TDPA technology

Europe's Paradigm Group recently launched 100% biodegradable plastic garbage bags produced from commodity PE resins and incorporating EPI's TDPA® (Totally Degradable Plastic Additives) technology. Thee company's Emerald™ Brand has introduced a new green line its 'Oxo Biodegradable Garbage Bags.

For more details on New 100% biodegradable plastic bags using TDPA technology click here

PolyOne in joint collaboration for development of bio-based plasticizers for polymer formulations

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) and PolyOne Corporation have agreed to collaborate on the development of bio-based plasticizers for use in polymer formulations. "There is clear market interest inn renewable technology as an alternative to traditional petroleum-based plasticizer offerings," said Dr.

For more details on PolyOne in joint collaboration for development of bio-based plasticizers for polymer formulations click here

Samsung Total's petrochemical 'Global Project' to achieve 1 trn KRW in sales profit underway

Samsung Total's 'Global Project' to achieve 1 trillion KRW in sales profit is successfully underway. 'Global Project' is a new development strategy that rearranged the complex operations in the past 22 years with 55 mln in investment to secure the company's competence in efficiency and scale.

For more details on Samsung Total's petrochemical 'Global Project' to achieve 1 trn KRW in sales profit underway click here

Samsung Petrochemicals commences maintenance turnaround at PTA plant

Samsung Petrochemicals has commenced a regular maintenance turnaround at its 700,000 tpa PTA plant at Daesan. The PTA plant of Samsung Petrochemicals is operating at 75% capacity levels and is expecteed to resume full operations shortly, though final date of restart is still undecided.

For more details on Samsung Petrochemicals commences maintenance turnaround at PTA plant click here

BASF selects OMP Plus for production planning of petrochem divisions in Ludwigshafen and Antwerp

BASF has selected OMP Plus for the production planning of its petrochemicals division in Ludwigshafen, Germany and Antwerp, Belgium. OMP Plus will plan all value chains of the division in an integrateed multi-site and multi-user environment.

For more details on BASF selects OMP Plus for production planning of petrochem divisions in Ludwigshafen and Antwerp click here

5 year investment program planned by Cepsa to expand petrochem capacity

As part of a €3.5 bln global investment plan, Spanish oil and chemicals major Compañía Española de Petróleos, (CEPSA) plans to expand its petrochemicals capacity. Current production includes purified terephthalic acid (PTA), additives dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and purified isophthalic acid (PIA).

For more details on 5 year investment program planned by Cepsa to expand petrochem capacity click here

New polypropylene offers unique combination of superior flow and transparency

Borealis has introduced a new grade of Borstar® random polypropylene (PP) with a unique combination of flow and transparency. Borstar RJ900MO was developed to meet the packaging market need for shorteer cycle times, transparency and mechanical properties in applications such as house- and kitchenware and food packaging.

For more details on New polypropylene offers unique combination of superior flow and transparency click here

PET and HDPE bottles to be recycled into bottles and films for food packaging

UK-based Alternative Waste Solutions (AWS) plans to upgrade its plant to enable polyethylene terephthalate (PET) water bottles and high density polyethylene (HDPE) milk bottles to be recycled into botttles and film suitable for food packaging.

For more details on PET and HDPE bottles to be recycled into bottles and films for food packaging click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week of September 22, 2008

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices that were hovering around the hundred dollar mark last week, have recoiled by around 4% in the week of September 22, 2008. The reason for this has been an increased safety sensed in commodity investment after the turmoil witnessed in US financial market.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week of September 22, 2008 click here

Massive petrochem complex in Brazil to come on steam in 2012

Rio de Janeiro's Petrochemical Complex (COMPERJ), the largest industrial undertaking in the history of Petrobras and Brazil, is expected to see a total outlay of US$8.5 bln. COMPERJ is expected to comme on stream in 2012 and to be completed in 2013, and will mark Petrobras' return to the petrochemical sector in grand style.

For more details on Massive petrochem complex in Brazil to come on steam in 2012 click here

CNPC to complete construction of 5 mln tpa project in Yinchuan by 2010

China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), the parent of PetroChina aims to complete the construction of the US$1.2 bln plant in Yinchuan by the end of 2010, it said in an announcement. Recently, PeetroChina Ningxia Refining & Chemicals Company launched its groundbreaking ceremony of a 5 mln tpa project in Yinchuan.

For more details on CNPC to complete construction of 5 mln tpa project in Yinchuan by 2010 click here

Ashland's new technology a boon for flexible packaging converters

Ohio-based Ashland Performance Materials, a worldwide manufacturer of specialty chemicals has developed a PURELAM FASTCURE™ technology decrease curing time and eliminate "hot-room" curing for flexiblee packaging converters.

For more details on Ashland's new technology a boon for flexible packaging converters click here

New technology that converts waste materials to bullet-proof panels

A small Welsh plastic engineering company, Protomax has developed a new technology 'P2' to manufacture strong plastic panels including armoured, bullet proof and fire proof doors from virtually any miix of waste material including discarded plastic bags, old milk cartons, discarded drinks bottles, metal components and old clothes.

For more details on New technology that converts waste materials to bullet-proof panels click here

New cost effective catalyst system developed to directly convert cellulose into ethylene glycol

According to a report in journal 'Angewandte Chemie,' researchers from USA and China have come out with a new catalyst that directly converts cellulose, the most common form of biomass, into ethylene glycol, an important intermediate product for chemical industry.

For more details on New cost effective catalyst system developed to directly convert cellulose into ethylene glycol click here

Modern Petrofils to set up a new unit, raise PET polycondensation capacity

Modern Petrofils, India's third largest manufacturer of polyester is reportedly expected to raise the PET polycondensation capacity at Baroda unit from the current 210
mt/day to 240 mt/day by the yeaar end.

For more details on Modern Petrofils to set up a new unit, raise PET polycondensation capacity click here

American alliance to develop bio-based plasticizers from corns and oilseeds

Two American companies - Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), maker of renewable products from crops and PolyOne Corporation, a global provider of specialized polymer materials and solutions - have rreportedly joined forces to develop and commercialize bio-based plasticizers from corn and oilseeds fro use in polymer formulations.

For more details on American alliance to develop bio-based plasticizers from corns and oilseeds click here

Eastman to suspend production of its pharmaceutical PET resin by year end

Worldwide manufacturer of chemicals, fibers and plastics, Eastman Chemical will cease the production of Eastman™ PET 5214A - a PET resin used in pharmaceutical industry - in the end of 2008. The decission to exit this PET resin business comes in order to rationalize capacity, restructure assets, and enable growth in its specialty copolyester business.

For more details on Eastman to suspend production of its pharmaceutical PET resin by year end click here

New clarifier to prove a boon for clear PP

US-based developer and producer of additives for plastics, textiles and fibers, Milliken Chemical has unveiled Millad® NX8000, a clarifier which 50% better clarity to polypropylene than the current inndustry standards.

For more details on New clarifier to prove a boon for clear PP click here

Oxea Announces Price Increases for Higher Alkyl Amines

With effect from 1 October 2008, Oxea - a global producer of solvents, polyols and oxo derivatives - has will increase the prices of its higher alkylamines. The prices of mono-isoproylamine will be auugmented by EUR 140/ton in Europe and US$200/ton in Asia and Americas.

For more details on Oxea Announces Price Increases for Higher Alkyl Amines click here

Brazil records 10.4% YOY increase in thermoplastic resins production

According to the association of chemical industries (Abiquim), YOY thermoplastic resin production in Brazil has spiked 10.4% in volume. Further, the August figures for nation's thermoplastic output inncreased 3.

For more details on Brazil records 10.4% YOY increase in thermoplastic resins production click here

Michelex Corp to resume operations at its New York-based plant by early 2009

New York headquartered designer and manufacturer of plastic components, Michelex Corp has pronounced the resumption of operations at its Plastics Division in Massena, New York facility by early 2009. The company makes and distributes CD and DVD packaging at its Plastics Division is expected to restart the facility with previous management.

For more details on Michelex Corp to resume operations at its New York-based plant by early 2009 click here

Menzolit opens new compounding plant in Shanghai

Menzolit, the largest producer of fibre reinforced compounds in the world has recently opened its new compounding plant in Shanghai that will produce sheet moulding compounds (SMC) and bulk moulding ccompounds (BMC) for the China and other Asian markets.

For more details on Menzolit opens new compounding plant in Shanghai click here

Operating rate of paraxylene to be curtailed by Japan's Idemitsu Kosan

Owing to drifting paraxylene prices in Asia and extremely slim margins, Japan's no.3 oil refiner Idemitsu Kosan Co has decided to reduce the paraxylene production at its Chiba plant to 75% starting Seep 25 for two months.

For more details on Operating rate of paraxylene to be curtailed by Japan's Idemitsu Kosan click here

Trade union strike put off at India's Haldia Petrochemical

India's Haldia Petrochemicals Limited (HPL) based in East Midnapore, West Bengal will see yet another postponement of a three-day workers' strike announced by the trade union which set to begin on Sepp 22.

For more details on Trade union strike put off at India's Haldia Petrochemical click here

Mixed market reactions as global credit crisis concern eases

Crude oil markets in Asia saw mixed reactions as investors reacted to steps taken by the US to help investment banks Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley survive a financial crisis. New York's main contraact, light sweet crude for October delivery dipped marginally to US$104.

For more details on Mixed market reactions as global credit crisis concern eases click here

Propylene prices fall as downstream demand ebbs and PP prices sink to 6 month lows

A further drop was witnessed in propylene prices, as they shrunk by almost hundred dollars. Subdued demand has lowered seller's offers to US$1200/MT CFR Asia in the face of buyer's interest at least hhundred dollars lower.

For more details on Propylene prices fall as downstream demand ebbs and PP prices sink to 6 month lows click here

Deteriorating demand continues to bring down ethylene prices in Asia

A persistent fall is being witnessed in ethylene and propylene prices in Asia as demand continues to deteriorate from downstream sector, leading to inventory build up. Sellers have expressed intent foor October shipment at US$1150/MT CFR Asia.

For more details on Deteriorating demand continues to bring down ethylene prices in Asia click here

15 naphtha fed steam cracker in Japan operating at reduced rates in August

Operating rates at Japan's 15 naphtha-fed steam crackers has averaged 94.1% in August. This rate is lower than the average of 97.3% recorded in July and 95.2% in August last year.
Deteriorating salees of ethylene in the month have compelled several producers to scale back operating rates this month.

For more details on 15 naphtha fed steam cracker in Japan operating at reduced rates in August click here

Blackout halts production at SK Energy

A blackout has been responsible for halting entire operations at SK Energy's polymer factory for over one hour. A crane hit high-voltage lines going into the plant in Ulsan, South Gyeongsang Province,, resulting in the accident.

For more details on Blackout halts production at SK Energy click here

Mexican conglomerate Alfa vying for Ethylene XXI petrochemicals project

Mexicos' federal government has developed the Ethylene XXI project, estimated to require an investment outlay of US$2.5-3 bln, as part of its plans to improve the viability of the petrochemicals indusstry, in particular the ethane-ethylene-polyethylene chain.

For more details on Mexican conglomerate Alfa vying for Ethylene XXI petrochemicals project click here

New LDPE filtered water bottle free of BPA and phthalates

The new Fit & Fresh LivPURE™ Filtered Water Bottle manufactured by Fit & Fresh™, a leading consumer brand of healthy living products, are completely free of Bisphenol-A (BPA), a hormone-disrupting cheemical considered to be potentially harmful to human health and the environment.

For more details on New LDPE filtered water bottle free of BPA and phthalates click here

Two Russian companies ink an important petrochemical joint venture

Russia's Salavatnefteorgsintez and SIBUR Holding had recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create a joint venture under the name Salavat Petrochemicals Complex LLC (SPCC). SPCC is exppected to become a major industrial complex, including large-volume production of lower olefins (ethylene, propylene) through pyrolysis of straight-run gasoline and liquefied hydrocarbon gases.

For more details on Two Russian companies ink an important petrochemical joint venture click here

Westlake, LANXESS and Bayer declare force majeure following Hurricane Ike damage

Westlake Chemical Corp has pronounced a force majeure at its Lake Charles petrochemical complex, Louisiana owing to damages following hurricane Ike. The company says the production is hurt as it is sttill awaiting complete access to feedstocks.

For more details on Westlake, LANXESS and Bayer declare force majeure following Hurricane Ike damage click here

BASF to curtail PS output amidst low sluggish demand and global economic slump

Chemical giant BASF has reportedly declared that it will curtail its polystyrene production by about 25% effective from October 1 due to weakening demand and the current global economic slump. This iss certain to impact the production capacities at the company's Ludwigshafen site in Germany and Antwerp site in Belgium, which have a combined PS production capacity of 535,000 mtpa.

For more details on BASF to curtail PS output amidst low sluggish demand and global economic slump click here

MCC's ethylene plant & reactor in Kashima resumes work

Japan's Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (MCC) has declared the restart of operations at its Kashima-based No.2 ethylene plant and No.7 reactor from Sep 17, 2008. Imperfections in the refrigeration equuipment had led to shut down of the ethylene plant as a safety measure.

For more details on MCC's ethylene plant & reactor in Kashima resumes work click here

BPCL fetches a high single digit premium on low aromatic naphtha amidst feeble Asian market

Despite the sluggish Asian naphtha market, India's state-owned Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) has sold 27,000 tons of low aromatic naphtha to Sempra for a high single digit premium to Middle East quuotes on FOB basis.

For more details on BPCL fetches a high single digit premium on low aromatic naphtha amidst feeble Asian market click here

DuPont declares force majeure for its ethylene copolymers business

Owing to the Hurricane Ike's surge damage at DuPont's Sabine facility in Orange, Texas, the company on Wednesday declared "force majeure" for its ethylene copolymers business. However, it is not clearr when restart will occur as per preliminary assessment of damages.

For more details on DuPont declares force majeure for its ethylene copolymers business click here

Repsol sets petrochemical expansion in Portugal underway

Repsol, an international integrated oil and gas company, have set underway the expansion project of its Sines Petrochemical Complex in Portugal which is slated to be complete by 2011. The project invoolves building new linear polyethylene and polypropylene units which will triple the current petrochemical capacity, and will increase the current cracker capacity by 40%.

For more details on Repsol sets petrochemical expansion in Portugal underway click here

IOC to delay unit shut-down at Panipat refinery; will resume spot naphtha exports after a 2 month gap

State-owned Indian Oil Corp (IOL) has delayed the maintenance shut down at its 120,000 bpd crude unit at Panipat refinery by three weeks. The Panipat-based crude unit which was initially slated to cloose down on Sep 18 will now go off line from Oct 10 in order to meet the rising domestic demand during festive season.

For more details on IOC to delay unit shut-down at Panipat refinery; will resume spot naphtha exports after a 2 month gap click here

Formosa's EIA for naphtha complex expansion approved

Taiwan's Formosa Plastics Group (FPG)'s environmental impact assessment (EIA) for Phase 4 of its sixth-naphtha complex expansion project has been approved. The country's Environmental Protection Adminnistration (EPA) has passed the environmental impact evaluation through its analysis report on the difference of the environmental impact.

For more details on Formosa's EIA for naphtha complex expansion approved click here

Vietnam's first refinery inks propylene supply pact with Japanese trading firm

A propylene purchase contract agreement has been inked between Japan's trading company, Marubeni Corp and Petrovietnam's oil refinery, Dung Quat. Under the terms of the contract, Marubeni Corp would ppurchase all propylene from the state owned Dung Quat oil refinery between 2009 and 2010 and its prices will be decided according to free-on-board (FOB) basis.

For more details on Vietnam's first refinery inks propylene supply pact with Japanese trading firm click here

New film to meet FAA's Flame Requirements for Aircraft Insulation Systems

To meet the new FAA fuselage "burn-through" barrier requirement for all new aircraft manufactured after September 1, 2009, commercial aircraft producers and insulation manufacturers are actively develloping new lightweight thermal acoustic blanket (TAB) insulation systems constructed with APTIV™ PEEK-based covering film.

For more details on New film to meet FAA's Flame Requirements for Aircraft Insulation Systems click here

Global leader in shrink packaging materials aims to make products energy efficient

Sealed Air, a global leader in shrink packaging materials and equipment is keenly reinforcing its environment friendly credentials and has plans to come out with new types of shrink films which slash the use of materials by 30% in production.

For more details on Global leader in shrink packaging materials aims to make products energy efficient click here

Asian propylene prices dip to 13 week lows, benzene to nine month lows

Propylene prices in Asia continue to sink in line with crude values, falling to four month lows. Coupled with weakening downstream polypropylene demand from China, prices have fallen by another 70 dolllars to US$1130/MT FOB Korea.

For more details on Asian propylene prices dip to 13 week lows, benzene to nine month lows click here

Polyethylene prices plummet in Asia on meek Chinese demand and weak input costs

Ethylene markets of Asia have weakened to levels less than US$1100/mt CFR Asia as they witness a withdrawal in buying interest. Buyers continue to abstain from deal conclusion on deficient demand fromm downstream polyethylene markets.

For more details on Polyethylene prices plummet in Asia on meek Chinese demand and weak input costs click here

Konarka Technologies obtains exclusive license for new photoactive polymers

After four years of collaboration, Konarka Technologies, Inc., an innovator in development and commercialization of Power Plastic®, a material that converts light to energy, has announced that it has obtained an exclusive license for a new family of photoactive polymers (polycarbazoles -PCZ) developed by Professor Mario Leclerc, director of the Macromolecular Science and Engineering Research Center of Université Laval (CERSIM) and director of the Quebec Center on Functional Materials (CQMF).

For more details on Konarka Technologies obtains exclusive license for new photoactive polymers click here

Automotive composites that skimp on weight, not performance

In the ongoing search for new ways to reduce vehicle weight, automotive OEMs and tiers have been looking for a better alternative to steel, aluminum and thermosets for large, aerodynamic, horizontal bbody panels.

For more details on Automotive composites that skimp on weight, not performance click here

Automotive drives into the medical market

A supplier at the recent AMI conference on Medical Grade Polymers (September 16-17, Philadelphia) commented that increasingly automotive plastics companies are starting to diversify into the medical ddevice industry.

For more details on Automotive drives into the medical market click here

EU approval granted for Polypropylene film additive after 15 years

A Polypropylene film additive by Eastman has taken 15 years to gain EU approval. Eastman Chemical B.V.'s Plastolyn R1140 hydrogenated hydrocarbon resin complies with a listing for petroleum hydrocarbbon resin (hydrogenated) in the Fifth Amendment to the Plastics Directive 2002/72/EC, along with Regalite resins R1100 and R1125.

For more details on EU approval granted for Polypropylene film additive after 15 years click here

Bayer MaterialScience to ramp up TDI, MDI production in Germany

Bayer MaterialScience has plans to construct a TDI (toluene diisocyanate) plant having production capacity of 300,000 tpa and based on its new gas-phase phosgenation process, in Dormagen. Currently, tthe company's Dormagen site has a 200, 000 tpa toluene diamine plant which is used a raw material in TDI.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience to ramp up TDI, MDI production in Germany click here

A refinery cum petrochemical unit to come in Ecuador

OPEC members, Iran and Ecuador have reportedly inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which incorporates a plan to construct a refinery and a petrochemical unit in Ecuador, in collaboration with Veenezuela.

For more details on A refinery cum petrochemical unit to come in Ecuador click here

Ineos, Lummus to be technology licensors for PE, PP unit for GAIL-led JV in Assam

Brahmaputra Cracker & Polymer Ltd (BCPL), a petrochemical JV between GAIL (India), Oil India Ltd (OIL), Nimbrugarh Refineries Ltd (NRL) and Govt. of Assam, has confirmed its license providers for the polyethylene and polypropylene projects at its integrated Lepetkata petrochem plant in Dibrugarh district of Assam.

For more details on Ineos, Lummus to be technology licensors for PE, PP unit for GAIL-led JV in Assam click here

MRPL offers 30,000 tons of naphtha for Oct lifting

India's Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) offered 30,000 tons of naphtha for October 24 - 26 loading from New Mangalore, a tender document confirmed. MRPL had sold its previous late-Sepptember naphtha tender at a premium of US$18/ton above Middle East quotes on freight-on-board (FOB) basis.

For more details on MRPL offers 30,000 tons of naphtha for Oct lifting click here

New plastics additive to improve PLA's processing and lower its melt strength

Rohm and Haas, a global pioneer in specialty materials industry has unveiled Paraloid BPMS 250, a new plastics additive which improves the melt strength and processing of
polylactic acid (PLA) and iits alloys, corn-derived compostable materials for clear packaging applications like thermoform or vacuform disposable, clamshell-type food containers.

For more details on New plastics additive to improve PLA's processing and lower its melt strength click here

DSM inaugurates plant in Geleen: doubles Stanyl® capacity

Royal DSM N.V., the global Life Sciences and Materials Sciences company headquartered in The Netherlands, has announced that the second polymerization plant for Stanyl® polyamide 46 on the Chemelot siite in Geleen (Netherlands) has opened.

For more details on DSM inaugurates plant in Geleen: doubles Stanyl® capacity click here

Lanxess plans to expand caprolactam production to 220,000 in 2 years

In a bid to strengthen its polyamide business, Lanxess plans to expand caprolactam production capacity at it's 200,000tpa Antwerp plant by 10% in the next two years at an investment of €35 mln. Caprollactam is an important raw material in the manufacture of PA 6.

For more details on Lanxess plans to expand caprolactam production to 220,000 in 2 years click here

Output volume of German chemical makers down revised to rise at 1%

High oil prices, a stronger euro vs the dollar and a slowdown in the United States economy in this quarter have taken their toll on performance of Germany-based chemical makers. Output volume of Germaany-based chemical makers has been down revised to rise at 1%, down from a previous prediction of 2.

For more details on Output volume of German chemical makers down revised to rise at 1% click here

Light weight composites for the global automotive industry

To meet increasing demand from the automotive industry for lightweight, high performance long-glass-fiber (LGF) composites, SABIC Innovative Plastics and SABIC PP Automotive has announced the worldwidde availability of SABIC® STAMAX polypropylene (PP) LGF resins.

For more details on Light weight composites for the global automotive industry click here

Huntsman sets high performance TPU grade production underway in German plant

Global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated chemicals, Huntsman Corporation recently set underway the production of its high performance thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) grades at its Osnabrückk-based facility in Germany.

For more details on Huntsman sets high performance TPU grade production underway in German plant click here

New cost effective substitute for PET food packaging and dairy bottles

BASF AG has unveiled a new impact-resistant polystyrene (PS) grade, BX 3580 as a cost effective substitute for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for blown molded food packaging such as dairy bottles noormally made from high density polyethylene (HDPE) or PET.

For more details on New cost effective substitute for PET food packaging and dairy bottles click here

Iran's largest PVC complex to be operational from December

As per the National Petrochemical Company (NPC), Iran's largest PVC manufacturing unit is expected to come on stream in Khuzestan province in December. The unit, which is currently in its pre-operatioon stage, will have a total PVC production capacity of 2.

For more details on Iran's largest PVC complex to be operational from December click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week of September 15, 2008

CRUDE OIL
As the dollar becomes stronger against major currencies, it has diminished the allure of commodities as a hedge, bringing down oil demand. Cruude oil for October delivery declined by five dollars to US$101/MT in the week of September 15, 2008 in New York.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week of September 15, 2008 click here

Gail led JV at Lapetkata to make the financial closure by November

Gail (India)-led joint venture, the Rs 5,460 crore Lapetkata petrochemical project, will make the financial closure by November. The project at Dibrugarh in Assam, has been configured with a capacity of producing 2,20,000 tpa of ethylene, 60,000 tpa of polypropylene, 55,000 tpa of raw pyrolysis gasoline and 12,500 tpa of fuel oil, and will start production by 2012.

For more details on Gail led JV at Lapetkata to make the financial closure by November click here

HPCL and partners to decide on project structure and funding of Vizag refinery-cum-petrochemical plant

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation and its partners Lakshmi N Mittal, Total, GAIL and Oil India Ltd. - plan to arrive at a decision by November on the project structure and funding of the proposed 14-15 mln tpa refinery-cum-petrochemical plant at Vizag in Andhra Pradesh.

For more details on HPCL and partners to decide on project structure and funding of Vizag refinery-cum-petrochemical plant click here

Banking woes in USA could trigger a downfall in economy: polymer prices in Asia plunge in anticipation of weak demand for Chinese products

Crude oil prices have plunged below hundred dollars to US$95 per barrel on Monday. Lehman Brothers Holdings filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection in a
New York federal court early Monday, listinng $613 billion in debt to more than
100,000 creditors and US$639 billion in assets.

For more details on Banking woes in USA could trigger a downfall in economy: polymer prices in Asia plunge in anticipation of weak demand for Chinese products click here

Bayer MaterialScience starts a 20,000 mtpa PUD manufacturing plant in Shanghai

One of the world's largest polymer companies, Bayer MaterialScience has set underway a 20,000 mtpa polyurethane dispersions (PUD) production plant at an integrated site in Shanghai. Bayer MaterialScieence now therefore has facilities in North America, Europe and Asia for these key raw materials for manufacturing environmentally friendly, waterborne coating systems and adhesives.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience starts a 20,000 mtpa PUD manufacturing plant in Shanghai click here

Dow Europe to up price of PC resins & PC-based compounds and blends

Effective 22nd September 2008, Dow Europe GmbH will up the price of CALIBRE™ polycarbonate resins by EUR 175/mt across Europe, India, Middle East and Africa. Also, the company will augment the price oof its EMERGE™ polycarbonate based compounds and blends by EUR 200/mt across Europe, India, Middle East and Africa.

For more details on Dow Europe to up price of PC resins & PC-based compounds and blends click here

New polymer to endure volatile decompression and harsh chemical environment

LANXESS has developed a new polymer THERBAN® XT HXNBR which is characterized by increased tear strength, abrasion resistance, high tensile strength and high elongation at high temperatures. The polymeer is ideal for use in explosive decompression and harsh chemical environments such as in oil well drilling applications.

For more details on New polymer to endure volatile decompression and harsh chemical environment click here

Westlake Chemical inaugurates office to strengthen operations in China

Houston-based Westlake Chemical Corporation has set up its new office in Shanghai, China which will serve as the headquarters for its China operations and other Asian business initiatives. The Shanghaai-based office will strengthen company's access to global markets and to new business development opportunities in the region.

For more details on Westlake Chemical inaugurates office to strengthen operations in China click here

BASF to acquire Ciba for US$5.5 bln, to be largest plastics additives maker post-deal

World's leading chemical maker, BASF SE has made a US$5.5 bln cash offer to acquire Swiss specialty chemical maker Ciba Holding AG which would apparently make BASF world's largest maker of plastic addditives and paper chemicals.

For more details on BASF to acquire Ciba for US$5.5 bln, to be largest plastics additives maker post-deal click here

Wales to see a plastics recycling boost within two years

Wales is set to witness two large scale plastics recycling projects to go on stream in the forthcoming two years. Australian-based Closed Loop Recycling will set underway its second UK facility to reccycle 50,000 tpa of PET and HDPE bottles into food-grade packaging in a plant in North Wales.

For more details on Wales to see a plastics recycling boost within two years click here

Benzene prices in Asia slide to five month lows

Sliding to the US$1100/MT mark, benzene prices in Asia have fallen to five-month lows, corresponding with weakening crude oil prices as well as persistent oversupply in the region. A further drop in bbenzene values has been estimated, as the oversupply is expected to extend on account of an influx of cargoes from Iran and Singapore totaling to 24,000 tons in two equal cargoes.

For more details on Benzene prices in Asia slide to five month lows click here

Declining Styrene Monomer prices in Asia fail to affect producer margins

Styrene Monomer prices that continue to fall in Asia have not eroded producer profit margins. This is due to similar rate of deterioration in oil and feedstock benzene prices. With price gap between SSM and naphtha pegged at about US$530/MT and between SM and benzene at about US$315/MT, a condition of ideal price gaps has come into force for SM producers.

For more details on Declining Styrene Monomer prices in Asia fail to affect producer margins click here

Propylene prices tumble in Asia on increasing inventories

Mounting stocks with propylene producers in Asia caused by weakened downstream demand on account of production cuts by PP and ACN makers, has exerted pressures on propylene prices. Propylene prices inn Asia have sunk by about 300 dollars this week as many PP and ACN makers in Asia have cut back operating rates to 70-75%.

For more details on Propylene prices tumble in Asia on increasing inventories click here

Oil and gasoline prices head in opposite directions

Under the dual forces of the Wall Street meltdown and the havoc wrecked by Hurricane Ike, America's fuel markets are uniquely poised- oil and gasoline prices are racing in opposite directions. News off Lehman Bros.

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Chemical plant shuttered by Hurricane Ike to take time to come on stream

Shortage of raw materials and personnel, along with transportation problems could result in weeks of delay in start up of chemical plants shuttered in the wake of Hurricane Ike, as per ICIS.
Dow's pplants on the Texas Gulf coast suffered no significant damage but it and other chemical producers did not offer a restart schedule.

For more details on Chemical plant shuttered by Hurricane Ike to take time to come on stream click here

Bisphenol A used in plastics linked to metabolic syndrome in humans

In a laboratory study, using fresh human fat tissues, a team at University of Cincinnati found that bisphenol A (BPA) suppresses a key hormone, adiponectin, which is responsible for regulating insulinn sensitivity in the body and puts people at a substantially higher risk for metabolic syndrome.

For more details on Bisphenol A used in plastics linked to metabolic syndrome in humans click here

Mitsubishi Plastics to construct a plant in Slovakia for consumer electronic components

In a move that will responding to growing demand for plastic parts in Eastern European countries and local expansion, Japanese injection moulder Mitsubishi Plastics, part of Japan's Mitsubishi Chemicaal Holdings Corp.

For more details on Mitsubishi Plastics to construct a plant in Slovakia for consumer electronic components click here

New bioplastic made by bacteria

University College Dublin (UCD) has come up with a way to recycle old plastic bottles and containers with microorganisms, resulting in a new plastic out of the bacteria's digestive system that is bioddegradable.

For more details on New bioplastic made by bacteria click here

US demand for biodegradable plastic to grow at 16% pa to reach US$845 mln in 2012

Demand for biodegradable plastic in USA is forecast to expand nearly 16% pa to 720 million pounds in 2012, valued at US$845 mln, according to a new report by market research firm The Freedonia Group. Demand will present good opportunities through 2012, reflecting price declines, improved product performance and greater processor familiarity.

For more details on US demand for biodegradable plastic to grow at 16% pa to reach US$845 mln in 2012 click here

Lurgi Zimmer awarded a PBT plant contract in China

Lurgi Zimmer, a subsidiary of Frankfurt-based Lurgi GmbH, has been awarded a contract for a PBT plant in China. Lurgi Zimmer GmbH has been awarded a contract for a PBT plant for Xinjiang Blue Ridge Tuunhe Chemical Industry Company Ltd.

For more details on Lurgi Zimmer awarded a PBT plant contract in China click here

NE China's petrochemical plant suffers chemical blasts

Powerful chemical blasts occurred at Dengta Jinhang Petrochemical Co. in northeast China's Liaoning province early Sunday morning. One person was killed and two people were reported missing the due too the staggering blasts which reportedly were heard 40 km away from the petrochemical plant.

For more details on NE China's petrochemical plant suffers chemical blasts click here

New coating system to improve wear resistance and extend life of molds

VICOTE Coatings are increasingly finding use as an alternative to fluoropolymer coatings, and a suitable choice for engineers aiming to enhance wear performance, and life of the coated part in their aapplications.

For more details on New coating system to improve wear resistance and extend life of molds click here

Solvay's Thai affiliate augments PVC capacity, plans further increase

Vinythai, a Thai affiliate of Solvay, has augmented its polyvinyl chloride (PVC) production capacity by 70,000 tpa at its Map Ta Phut-based plant in Thailand. The PVC production at this plant now totaals to 280,000 tpa.

For more details on Solvay's Thai affiliate augments PVC capacity, plans further increase click here

Eastman Chemical fortifies presence in Russia, CIS countries

Worldwide manufacturer and marketer of chemicals, fibers and plastics, Eastman Chemical B.V. announced recently the opening of a representative office in Moscow, Russian Federation. This aims to servee the company's expanding customer base in the Russian Federation and other CIS countries thereby obtain a stronghold in the region.

For more details on Eastman Chemical fortifies presence in Russia, CIS countries click here

New standard compliant sheets to offer more comfort, aesthetics in aircraft interiors

Boltaron Performance Products (BPP), LLC has joined forces with SABIC Innovative Plastics to create new aesthetic choices for Lexan XHR6000 sheet, under the brand Boltaron 9915 FSTH sheet. The new sheeet products are perfectly suited for aircraft interiors and comply with flame, smoke and toxicity (FST) requirements and the Ohio State University (OSU) 65/65 standard.

For more details on New standard compliant sheets to offer more comfort, aesthetics in aircraft interiors click here

Finnish plastics pipe maker Uponor closes Canadian manufacturing facility

Finland's global plastic pipes maker, Uponor have closed down its Canadian manufacturing facility in Saint John, New Brunswick. The slump in North America's building and construction industry coupled with slowing US economy had led to the close down of its Canadian facility.

For more details on Finnish plastics pipe maker Uponor closes Canadian manufacturing facility click here

Mitsubishi Plastics to set up its first molding facility in East Europe to be based in Slovakia

In response to a growing demand for plastics in East Europe, Japan's Mitsubishi Plastics will roll out an injecting plant in Nitra, Slovakia with an outlay US$27 mln. This is Mitsubishi Plastics' nintth plant outside Japan and is expected to start operations from September 2009.

For more details on Mitsubishi Plastics to set up its first molding facility in East Europe to be based in Slovakia click here

MAG Cincinnati's fiber placement systems to be used in Airbus' new aircraft

American aircraft manufacturer, Airbus has expressed interest to buy six VIPER® fibre placement systems (FPS) from MAG Cincinnati to automate its composite fuselage panel fabrication for the compositee airframe of the new Airbus A350 XWB passenger aircraft.

For more details on MAG Cincinnati's fiber placement systems to be used in Airbus' new aircraft click here

Epcor acquires Morris Cogeneration from Mitsubishi Corp.

Canada's Power-generator company, Epcor Power LP has bought Illinois-based Morris Cogeneration LLC from Mitsubishi Corp. for US$77 mln. Morris Cogeneration LLC is a 177 MW natural-gas-fired plant at EEquistar Chemicals LP's ethylene plant near Chicago.

For more details on Epcor acquires Morris Cogeneration from Mitsubishi Corp. click here

New high performance materials developed using 100% biodegradable plastics

Combine, a UK based joint project has developed a first generation of high performance composite materials which use completely biodegradable natural fibre reinforced plastics. These unique composite materials incorporate long, aligned natural fibres to strengthen naturally derived plastics.

For more details on New high performance materials developed using 100% biodegradable plastics click here

North American ethylene supply, downstream markets to suffer on after effects of Gustav and Ike

Owing to growing strength of Hurricane Ike, chemical plant owners based in Texas from Corpus Christi to Port Arthur halted operation in preparation for the season's possibly largest hurricane. The ethhylene market will suffer the most from the hurricane.

For more details on North American ethylene supply, downstream markets to suffer on after effects of Gustav and Ike click here

RIL's Oct naphtha parcel fetches US$5-7 premium

80,000 tons of open-speculation naphtha parcel for October delivery were sold by Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) from Sikka to British Petroleum (BP) at a one-digit premium of US$5-7/ton over the Middlle East quotes on FOB basis.

For more details on RIL's Oct naphtha parcel fetches US$5-7 premium click here

International Conference on "Plastics on Engineering Applications

Indian Plastics Institute (IPI) is organizing our 6th International Conference on "Plastics on Engineering Applications" on 19, 20 Sept 2008 at InterContinental The Grand Hotel, Sahar Airport Road, Anndheri (East), Mumbai-400059 and on 22nd Sept 08 at Bangalore.

For more details on International Conference on "Plastics on Engineering Applications click here

Taiwan's Formosa Plastics Group sees major drop in combined August sales

Taiwan's Formosa Plastics Group (FPG) has posted an 18.5% month-on-month slump in combined sales for August (amounting to US$4.44 bln) of its four subsidiaries including Formosa Plastics Corporation ((FPC), Nan Ya Plastics Corporation, Formosa Chemical & Fibre Corporation (FCFC) and Formosa Petrochemical Corporation (FPCC).

For more details on Taiwan's Formosa Plastics Group sees major drop in combined August sales click here

ONGC naphtha parcel sold at year's first discount at US$10/ton

India's state-owned Oil and Natural Gas (ONGC) has reportedly sold 35,000 tons of naphtha for Oct 1-2 delivery at a discount of US$10/ton below the Middle East spot bids on FOB basis. This parcel soldd to Glencore at a two-digit discount fetched the year's very first discount given by ONGC.

For more details on ONGC naphtha parcel sold at year's first discount at US$10/ton click here

New PLA polymerization technology to be developed to efficiently produce a wide range

World's largest producer of natural lactic acid, lactates, lactitol, lactides and polylactides - PURAC and a Swiss-based engineering company - Sulzer Chemtech signed a joint cooperation agreement for the development and sharing of polymerization and devolatilization technology to efficiently produce a range of polylactic acid (PLA) products from the specialty Lactides supplied by PURAC.

For more details on New PLA polymerization technology to be developed to efficiently produce a wide range click here

PS framework to simulate 3-d cellular growth as in human body

Dr Stefan Przyborski, a researcher at Durham University and chief scientific officer of Reinnervate, has developed a polystyrene foam scaffold which enables cells to grow in 3-dimensions in a similar way to how they grow in the human body.

For more details on PS framework to simulate 3-d cellular growth as in human body click here

OMV and Borealis to outlay EUR 840 mln for petrochem expansion in Germany

A joint investment of EUR 840 mln has been announced by OMV - an integrated oil and gas company and Borealis - a manufacturer of polyethylene and polypropylene resins, for expansion of petrochemical pproduction capacities in Burghausen, Germany In November 2006, OMV Aktiengesellschaft first announced their EUR 1.

For more details on OMV and Borealis to outlay EUR 840 mln for petrochem expansion in Germany click here

Oil drops close to US$100 as the dollar strengthens and demand weakens

New York's main contract, light sweet crude for October, dropped to close at US$100.87 a barrel, as the dollar strengthens and demand weakens. This has sidelined the prospective effects Hurricane Ike barreling through the rig-dotted Gulf of Mexico.

For more details on Oil drops close to US$100 as the dollar strengthens and demand weakens click here

Plastolyn Receives Approval from EU for Food Contact

Eastman Chemical B.V.'s market-leading Plastolyn™R1140hydrogenated hydrocarbon resin complies with a listing for petroleum hydrocarbon resin (hydrogenated) in the 5th amendment to the Plastics Directiive 2002/72/EC to support food-contact use in the European Union.

For more details on Plastolyn Receives Approval from EU for Food Contact click here

EC to invest in development of sustainable Wood-Based Composites

The European Commission plans to invest €6.5 mln into a large scale project dealing with the development of sustainable wood-based composite materials for a wide range of applications. The SustainCompp project involves 17 organizations around Europe and is coordinated by the Swedish R+D company STFI-Packforsk AB.

For more details on EC to invest in development of sustainable Wood-Based Composites click here

Recycling of waste plastics in China expected rise by 2 mln tons in the year

Recycling of waste plastics in China is expected to reach 17 mln tons in 2008, rising from 15 mln tons recorded in 2007, as per a report by BCC Research.
The report forecasts that recycling of wastee plastic is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 10% and will reach 27.

For more details on Recycling of waste plastics in China expected rise by 2 mln tons in the year click here

Eastman to expand presence in Russia with Representative Office in Moscow

In a bid to improve its service to a growing customer base in the Russian Federation and the other CIS countries, Eastman Chemical B.V. has inaugurated a Representative Office in Moscow, Russian Federration.

For more details on Eastman to expand presence in Russia with Representative Office in Moscow click here

Thin-wall sheet for more compact medical equipments optimizes hospital space, enhances patient experience

As hospitals strive to accommodate greater volumes of patients and services and compete for patients and staff, they are looking to innovations in medical equipment to address these challenges. SABIC Innovative Plastics' technologies are enabling development of smaller, lighter-weight, and more-attractive devices that leverage existing facility space and overhead, are easier to operate and service, and are more patient-friendly.

For more details on Thin-wall sheet for more compact medical equipments optimizes hospital space, enhances patient experience click here

Dow explores divestiture of certain businesses

In a move that will alleviate any prospective antitrust issues allied with its acquisition of Rohm and Haas Dow Chemical Co, Dow is delving divestiture of certain businesses.
In July, Dow announced aa deal to acquire rival Rohm and Haas for US$15.

For more details on Dow explores divestiture of certain businesses click here

India's NPPL inks MoU with Ashland Inc for resin production

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been inked between Natural Petrochemicals Pvt Ltd (NPPL) of India and Ashland India Pvt Ltd (AIPL), a fully owned subsidiary of Ohio-based Ashland Inc to allow NPPL start production of polyester resins and gel-coats for Ashland which will be supplied to composites customers in India.

For more details on India's NPPL inks MoU with Ashland Inc for resin production click here

Huntsman unveils world class technology innovation centre in Shanghai

Huntsman Corporation, a leading global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated chemicals, announced on Sep 2 the official opening of its Asia Pacific Technology Centre (ATC) in Shanghai's Minhang Development Zone, giving regional customers direct access to a world-class technology innovation resource.

For more details on Huntsman unveils world class technology innovation centre in Shanghai click here

Advanced PU systems manufacturing facility started by Dow Izolan in Russia

Dow Izolan, the joint venture company between The Dow Chemical Company (Dow) and Izolan, have broken ground on a new, state-of-the-art polyurethane systems manufacturing facility in Vladimir, Russia. The new plant will help Dow Izolan to enhance its offering to Russian customers serving the fast-growing automotive, consumer, footwear, furniture, appliance and construction markets.

For more details on Advanced PU systems manufacturing facility started by Dow Izolan in Russia click here

Advanced PU systems manufacturing facility started by Dow Izolan in Russia

Dow Izolan, the joint venture company between The Dow Chemical Company (Dow) and Izolan, have broken ground on a new, state-of-the-art polyurethane systems manufacturing facility in Vladimir, Russia. The new plant will help Dow Izolan to enhance its offering to Russian customers serving the fast-growing automotive, consumer, footwear, furniture, appliance and construction markets.

For more details on Advanced PU systems manufacturing facility started by Dow Izolan in Russia click here

New environment-friendly heat stabilizing modifier to allow PLA to endure high temperatures

Furthering its sustainable packaging solutions, DuPont has come out with an environment-friendly heat stabilizing modifier, Biomax® Thermal 300 which enhances polylactic acid (PLA) thermoformed packagging to withstand elevated temperatures during transportation, storage and consumption.

For more details on New environment-friendly heat stabilizing modifier to allow PLA to endure high temperatures click here

Hurricane Ike shuts oil fields, disrupts refineries and ups oil prices

Further strengthening of Hurricane Ike as it stormed into the Gulf of Mexico has led to closed down of oil fields and hindrances in the refinery production. The biggest US oil-import terminal, Louisiaana Offshore Oil Port which handles 13% of imports, said it shut down its marine operations owing to Hurricane Ike.

For more details on Hurricane Ike shuts oil fields, disrupts refineries and ups oil prices click here

Declining crude prices, sluggish Chinese demand furthers downfall of Asian ABS prices

The downfall in acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) prices in Asian market continued shattering hopes of a belated up thrust in Asian ABS demand. Owing to declining crude prices and a sluggish Chineese demand, this week the ABS prices furthered lowered by US$20-30/mt and stood in the range of US$2030-2050/mt CFR China.

For more details on Declining crude prices, sluggish Chinese demand furthers downfall of Asian ABS prices click here

Boron-filled HDPE unveiled for use in shielding against neutron radiation

A new formulation of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) improved with 5% elemental boron has been unveiled by Quadrant Engineering Plastic Products (Quadrant EPP) for application in nuclear shielding foor extra protection against neutron radiation.

For more details on Boron-filled HDPE unveiled for use in shielding against neutron radiation click here

Sumitomo's full electric machine examined by Rosti

With the merger of Sumitomo Heavy Industries and the Demag Plastics group, Rosti took the opportunity of examining a Sumitomo SD180EU full electric machine. This will be the first electric machine to be used in Rosti's facilities.

For more details on Sumitomo's full electric machine examined by Rosti click here

Oil prices rise as Hurricane Ike heads towards major energy facilities and on OPEC decision

As Hurricane Ike headed towards key energy facilities on the southern US coast, oil prices rose in Asian trade. New York's main contract, light sweet crude for October delivery rose to US$103.8, whilee Brent North Sea crude rose to US$99.

For more details on Oil prices rise as Hurricane Ike heads towards major energy facilities and on OPEC decision click here

Pessimistic outlook prevails for PVC, PP and PS in Asia as demand wanes

Pessimistic outlook and bearish sentiments that are suppressing demand continue to keep PVC, PS and PP prices down in Asia.
Despite conclusion of PVC deals for September shipment at lows of US$1100//MT CFR China, prices have not stabilized this week.

For more details on Pessimistic outlook prevails for PVC, PP and PS in Asia as demand wanes click here

OMV and Borealis invest significantly in expansion of Burghausen site

o OMV and Borealis invest EUR 840 mn in the expansion of their petrochemical production capacities
o Increase of ethylene production to 450,000 t per year; increase of propylene production to 560,0000 t; increase of polypropylene production to 570,000 t
o New plants successfully on stream with the implementation of the innovative Borstar® and metathesis technologies
o Expansion of polypropylene capacities to address growing demand for advanced packaging products and medical applications
o Inauguration Ceremony on September 10, 2008 under the patronage of Emilia Müller, State Minister of Bavaria for Economy, Infrastructure, Transportation and Technology

In November 2006 OMV Aktiengesellschaft first announced their EUR 1.

For more details on OMV and Borealis invest significantly in expansion of Burghausen site click here

Production of thermoplastic compounds growing in Central Europe

Production of thermoplastic compounds growing in Central Europe as per a report by Applied Market Information Ltd, as the industry continues to shift eastward with most of the new sites listed in the guide setting up in Central Europe.

For more details on Production of thermoplastic compounds growing in Central Europe click here

Linde Commissions Georgia Air Separation Plant

Linde North America has commissioned a new air separation plant in Cartersville, Georgia, some 40 miles northwest of Atlanta. Linde North America is a member of The Linde Group, a leading gases and enngineering company.

For more details on Linde Commissions Georgia Air Separation Plant click here

Start-up of Huntsman Corp's new high performance TPU grades production line

Huntsman Corporation has started up a new production line to manufacture specialist high performance TPU grades at its Osnabrück, Germany facility. Volume and financial details were not disclosed of tthe facility, whose capacity expansion was previously announced in November 2007.

For more details on Start-up of Huntsman Corp's new high performance TPU grades production line click here

Borealis' 330,000 tpa Polypropylene plant comes onstream in Germany

Borealis is expanding the capacity of its leading edge, customer-oriented polypropylene (PP) packaging materials with the inauguration of its new Borstar® plant in Burghausen, Germany. The 330,000 tpaa facility will use Borealis' proprietary Borstar PP 2G (second generation) multi-modal technology to produce products offering a step change in purity, processing output and performance.

For more details on Borealis' 330,000 tpa Polypropylene plant comes onstream in Germany click here

Reichhold inks LOI with TEDA to set up resin plant in China

US-based Reichhold and China's Tianjin Economic Development Area (TEDA) have inked a letter of intent (LOI) to set underway the 50,000 tpa unsaturated polyester resins project in Tianjin. The polyesteer plant is expected to attract a total investment of US$40 mln and has a registered capital of about US$12 mln.

For more details on Reichhold inks LOI with TEDA to set up resin plant in China click here

New environment friendly plastic molding technology reduces resin consumption by 30%

Japanese auto maker, Mazda Motor Corporation has developed a new plastic molding technology that enables a substantial reduction in the weight of plastic parts used in vehicles. The new molding techniique lessens the use of plastic resins as raw materials by 20-30%.

For more details on New environment friendly plastic molding technology reduces resin consumption by 30% click here

Swiss-German partnership to start PLA production in Germany by H2-09

A joint partnership between Switzerland's Pyramid Technologies and Germany's German Bioplastics under the name 'Pyramid Bioplastics' will initiate a production facility for PLA having capacity of 60,0000 tpa.

For more details on Swiss-German partnership to start PLA production in Germany by H2-09 click here

CAE Injection-Compression Molding model developed for auto glazing surfaces

SABIC Innovative Plastics' Exatec** team has developed a novel computer aided engineering (CAE) method to model the two-component injection-compression molding (2K ICM) process which is expected to goo a long way to lessen stress and increase optical quality in polycarbonate (PC) auto glazing.

For more details on CAE Injection-Compression Molding model developed for auto glazing surfaces click here

IOC to refrain from Oct naphtha spot exports due to Petronet LNG plant shutdown

Owing to a week long close down of Petronet LNG's 5 mln tpa liquefied natural gas plant in mid-October, state owned Indian Oil Corp (IOC) will not engage in naphtha spot exports for October lifting. TThis cut in naphtha spot exports is the third consecutive cut after IOC announced the same in August and September spot exports due to maintenance shut down of its Panipat and Koyali refineries.

For more details on IOC to refrain from Oct naphtha spot exports due to Petronet LNG plant shutdown click here

Central Europe sees growth of injection moulding for packaging applications

Injection moulding for packaging applications has seen immense growth in Central Europe as per a study by Applied Market Information (AMI). AMI estimates that nearly one million tonnes of polymer resiin are processed in the region as many West European firms have relocated injection-moulding production eastwards in order to increase profit and follow their customers.

For more details on Central Europe sees growth of injection moulding for packaging applications click here

PET prices for H1 Oct delivery to US dip

In line with a major drop in paraxylene (PX) prices in Asia, PET offers to the US plummeted to the low 70's cents/lb. In August, PX prices in Asia saw a downfall of nearly two hundred dollars to reachh US$1220/MT CFR China.

For more details on PET prices for H1 Oct delivery to US dip click here

Essar awards contracts to CB&I for petrochemical complex

Essar Gujarat Petrochemicals Ltd has awarded to CB&I, through Lummus Technology, contracts for technology licenses and basic engineering for a major grassroots petrochemicals complex in Vadinar, Indiaa.

For more details on Essar awards contracts to CB&I for petrochemical complex click here

Polyurethane Transfer Molding for Composites

In place of polyester, vinylester and epoxy used in resin transfer molding (RTM), the use of polyurethane resin is being introduced. RTM technology process has been a preferred method for manufacturinng composite parts.

For more details on Polyurethane Transfer Molding for Composites click here

Phthalate-free, soft thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs)

The Polyurethanes division of Huntsman Corporation announced the introduction of two new grades of patented, unplasticized, soft thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs). IROGRAN® A60E4902 is a Shore 55A poolyester, and IROGRAN® A65P4910 is a Shore 65A polyether.

For more details on Phthalate-free, soft thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) click here

Hexion declines another bid by Huntsman shareholder group of US$416 mln in cash

Despite seeking to quit a US$6.5 bln buyout of chemical maker Huntsman Corp., Hexion Specialty Chemicals Inc., has rejected another bid by a Huntsman shareholder group to add US$416 mln in cash to fiinance the buyout.

For more details on Hexion declines another bid by Huntsman shareholder group of US$416 mln in cash click here

Capacities to come on stream in Middle East: European producers mull production restructuring

The Middle East offers significant feedstock advantages, along with being strategically positioned for export opportunities. Engineering, procurement and construction costs continue to escalate, but sseveral projects are due to come onstream in this year and the next few years.

For more details on Capacities to come on stream in Middle East: European producers mull production restructuring click here

Economic slowdown and anticipation of lower prices affects polypropylene pricing in Europe

Economic slowdown in major economies of the world leading to a bearish market outlook as well as anticipation of a further price drop in line with persistently falling oil and feedstock values has afffected pricing of polypropylene in Europe.

For more details on Economic slowdown and anticipation of lower prices affects polypropylene pricing in Europe click here

Kuwait's PIC JV with USA based Dow on verge of conclusion

"TKOC" - Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC) and US-based Dow Chemical's joint venture is in its final stages. An agreement for the same is expected to be signed by end of year. The joint venture iis to cost the Kuwaiti counterpart US$9 bln with profits estimated at US$11 bln annually.

For more details on Kuwait's PIC JV with USA based Dow on verge of conclusion click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week of September 8, 2008

CRUDE OIL
On Friday, oil dropped for the sixth consecutive day, falling to US$106 per barrel; as the dollar rose to the highest this year against the euuro.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week of September 8, 2008 click here

Turkey's Petkim to use LPG for ethylene production once tax is lifted

Turkish petrochemical maker, Petkim intends to use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in place of naphtha for the production of ethylene, one of its chief products once the tax on LPG is lifted by the goveernment.

For more details on Turkey's Petkim to use LPG for ethylene production once tax is lifted click here

Work on Iran's first petrochemical park set underway

According to the oil ministry of Iran, the construction of the Iran's first petrochemical park which is a part of Assaluyeh petrochemical zone's phase-2 has set underway. The private sector is involveed in the construction of the 430,000 tpa petrochem park at an investment of EUR 410 mln (approx.

For more details on Work on Iran's first petrochemical park set underway click here

5-way agreement inked for integrated PP complex in Trinidad and Tobago

LyondellBasell Industries (through its wholly owned subsidiary Basell Service Company B.V.), the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, The National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago, Ltd. (NGC), Nationaal Energy Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago, Ltd.

For more details on 5-way agreement inked for integrated PP complex in Trinidad and Tobago click here

Second Request by FTC to Dow vis-à-vis Rohm and Haas acquisition

US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has sent a "Second Request" to the Dow Chemical Company, American diversified chemical company, with reference to the company's planned acquisition of Rohm and Haas aas announced on July 10, 2008.

For more details on Second Request by FTC to Dow vis-à-vis Rohm and Haas acquisition click here

India's naphtha exports to boost after gas production initiates in KG basin

The vast gas reserves in India's Krishna-Godavari (KG) basin unearthed by Reliance Industries (RIL), Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC) and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) will reduce tthe domestic demand for naphtha and other petroleum products once the gas production start by year end.

For more details on India's naphtha exports to boost after gas production initiates in KG basin click here

Shell Group's largest investment in Singapore advances as planned; start up expected 2009-10

The progress of Shell Group's largest ever petrochemical investment in Singapore is as expected to initiate operations in 2009-10. Shell Eastern Petrochemicals Complex (SEPC) includes modifications annd additions to the Shell Bukom refinery, a new world-scale 800,000 tpa ethylene cracker and a 155,000 tpa butadiene extraction unit on Bukom Island.

For more details on Shell Group's largest investment in Singapore advances as planned; start up expected 2009-10 click here

New bicomponent fiber technology to make possible polymer processing at high runs with elastic recovery

New elastic nonwoven technology by Kraton Polymers LLC, a global producer of engineered polymers, will make it possible for the polymers to be processed at commercial production rates with outstandingg elastic properties.

For more details on New bicomponent fiber technology to make possible polymer processing at high runs with elastic recovery click here

Plasticizers account for more than half of global additives volume; flame retardants see fastest growth

As per a report provided by Townsend Polymer Services and Information, the plastic additives industry worth US$32 bln in 2007 is witnessing drastic changes such as boost in demand from emerging marketts, maturity in the product life cycle, globalization, inexpensive supplying from Asia and regulations.

For more details on Plasticizers account for more than half of global additives volume; flame retardants see fastest growth click here

Gustav aftermath could discontinue decline in EG prices; DEG, PO may also to get affected

The decline in the ethylene glycol (EG) prices during the past few weeks owing to the lower crude prices may discontinue as a result of the shut downs and disturbances led by the Hurricane Gustav batttering Louisiana recently.

For more details on Gustav aftermath could discontinue decline in EG prices; DEG, PO may also to get affected click here

New range of highly permeable & non-perforated BOPP films

UK's Innovia Films, a maker of specialty materials for packaging and labels, has launched PropaFresh P2G and P2GAF, a new range of breathable, biaxially-oriented polypropylene (BOPP) films. This permeeable and non-perforated film range is an outcome of the firm's own R&D facility.

For more details on New range of highly permeable & non-perforated BOPP films click here

A. Schulman's polyolefin sheet business on a brink of a sell-off; dreary auto market responsible

Ohio-headquartered A. Schulman Inc, a leading international supplier of high-performance plastic compounds and resins, is in search for a JV partner or a strategic business arrangement for its technollogical and commercial operations at Sharon Centre-based polyolefin sheet line in Ohio.

For more details on A. Schulman's polyolefin sheet business on a brink of a sell-off; dreary auto market responsible click here

Maintenance turnaround at BTX plants in Asia

Sinopec Tianjin Petrochemical Co. Ltd. has shuttered its BTX plant for a 40 day turnaround until second half of October. Capacities that will be affected include: 145,000 tpa of benzene, 135,000 tpa oof toluene and 400,000 tpa of xylene.

For more details on Maintenance turnaround at BTX plants in Asia click here

Threat of a new hurricane pushes oil prices up

New York's main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in October spiked by over two dollars to US$108.6 a barrel. Brent North Sea crude for October rose to US$106.6. Oil prices have climbed up on cconcerns that Hurricane Ike is likely to threaten production facilities in the oil-rich US Gulf Coast.

For more details on Threat of a new hurricane pushes oil prices up click here

Driven by declining crude and input costs, ABS prices continue to dip in Asia

ABS demand continues to be dull in Asia as crude oil and feedstock butadiene values continue to descend. Buyers prefer to wait and watch for a possible ABS price decline in line with dipping input cossts.

For more details on Driven by declining crude and input costs, ABS prices continue to dip in Asia click here

Clarity breakthrough in metallocene-based polyolefin copolymer

LyondellBasell's new RM2073 specialty grade resin (metallocene-based polyolefin copolymer) produced using the company's proprietary single-site catalyst technology, has been developed to provide extreemely high clarity.

For more details on Clarity breakthrough in metallocene-based polyolefin copolymer click here

GAIL shows interest to construct a petrochem plant in Colombia with RIL

India's state-owned Gas Authority of India Ltd (GAIL) has expressed strong intentions to team up with Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) in setting up a large scale petrochemical plant in Colombia. If reallized, the plant will be the very first petrochemical production plant in Colombia.

For more details on GAIL shows interest to construct a petrochem plant in Colombia with RIL click here

Sasol to outlay US$70 mln to twice hard wax production capacity; sees completion of two contracts for PP plant

South African synthetic fuel producer, Sasol has agreed to invest R558 mln (approx. US$69.81 mln) to twice its hard wax production capacity at its Sasolburg-based Sasol Wax operations by leveraging itts proprietary technology.

For more details on Sasol to outlay US$70 mln to twice hard wax production capacity; sees completion of two contracts for PP plant click here

Low ethylene demand, cracker shut down induce Formosa to postpone Nov cargoes by a month

Over saturation of naphtha storage tanks is hauling over Taiwan's Formosa Petrochemicals due to weak demand for ethylene in the region and a recent maintenance shutdown of its No.3 cracker. As a resullt, Formosa is deciding to postpone its November term cargoes by a month in order to tackle the full tank situation.

For more details on Low ethylene demand, cracker shut down induce Formosa to postpone Nov cargoes by a month click here

Iranian company exports 690,000 tons petrochemicals in 5 months

As per an announcement by National Petrochemical Company of Iran (NPCI), Zagros Petrochemical Company (ZPC) showed exports of roughly 690,000 tons of petrochemicals from March 21 to August 21, 2008 (ffirst five months of current Iranian calendar).

For more details on Iranian company exports 690,000 tons petrochemicals in 5 months click here

K-Dow scouts SE Michigan to house HQ; Ann Arbor one of the strong contenders

K-Dow Petrochemicals, a US$11 bln JV between Dow Chemical and Kuwait Petroleum Corp's subsidiary, Petrochemical Industries Co. is strongly considering to set up its headquarters at Ann Arbor in southeeast Michigan.

For more details on K-Dow scouts SE Michigan to house HQ; Ann Arbor one of the strong contenders click here

Borealis and Borouge stress partnership approach to global water challenge at IWA 2008

Borealis and Borouge will emphasise the importance of cross-sector cooperation by presenting their Water for the World initiative at the International Water Association's (IWA) World Water Congress annd Exhibition 2008 in Vienna, Austria.

For more details on Borealis and Borouge stress partnership approach to global water challenge at IWA 2008 click here

GAIL set to ramp up petrochem business through capacity additions, JVs

State-owned Gas Authority of India Ltd. (GAIL) is seriously planning to ramp up its share in the petrochemical business which along with LPG contributed roughly 56% to company's total net profit of Rss.

For more details on GAIL set to ramp up petrochem business through capacity additions, JVs click here