Haldia Petrochem to proceed with capacity expansion as demand revives

Undaunted by the current global economic meltdown and recessionary trends, Haldia Petrochemical Limited (HPL) plans to proceed with its capacity expansion plan -project Supermax. The project is estimaated to be completed in May-June of 2009 and will meet the reviving demand.

For more details on Haldia Petrochem to proceed with capacity expansion as demand revives click here

Dow could seek reduction in initially agreed US$15.3 bln valuation of Rohm & Haas

Kuwaiti government has scrapped Dow Petrochemicals US$17.4 bln JV with Kuwait's Petrochemical Industries Co. Kuwait has termed the JV as, "very risky" due to the global financial crisis and crude pricces that have tumbled more than 70% since July.

For more details on Dow could seek reduction in initially agreed US$15.3 bln valuation of Rohm & Haas click here

Oil prices surpass US$40 as tensions mount in the Middle East

Concerns that Israeli attacks on Hamas in the Gaza Strip could fan tensions in the Middle East and disrupt crude supplies; have triggered a rise in oil prices. Israeli troops and tanks massed along thhe Gaza border with a government statement that it had called up reserves for a possible ground operation.

For more details on Oil prices surpass US$40 as tensions mount in the Middle East click here

China ponders anti-dumping measures on polymers to protect local industry

Asian polymer markets are currently facing the onslaught of influx of low priced cargoes from South Korea, USA and Middle East. Players from these countries are offloading material at cheaper rates too several countries to prevent a domestic crisis.

For more details on China ponders anti-dumping measures on polymers to protect local industry click here

Spot naphtha cargoes in Asia trade at first premium since July

Naphtha market in Asia embarked on its worst ever slump with demand deterioration in line with the global economic meltdown. In a bid to cope with lackluster demand several cracker operators reduced rrun rates.

For more details on Spot naphtha cargoes in Asia trade at first premium since July click here

Formosa Plastics to pump US$30 mln into subsidiary in Mainland China

Formosa Plastics Group has secured approval from the directorate to inject US$30 mln into its mainland subsidiary Formosa Polypropylene (Ningbo), in a bid to improve the worsening financial situation of the mainland unit.

For more details on Formosa Plastics to pump US$30 mln into subsidiary in Mainland China click here

Naphtha production at Reliance Petroleum's new $6 bln refinery takes off

India's Reliance Petroleum Ltd, a subsidiary of Mukesh Ambani promoted Reliance Group has commissioned an US$6 bln export-specific refinery near its existing facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The new reffinery combined with the existing facility with have a refining capacity of 1.

For more details on Naphtha production at Reliance Petroleum's new $6 bln refinery takes off click here

Massive Dow-PIC petrochem deal abandoned by Kuwait

US chemical major, Dow Chemical faced a severe blow as Kuwait withdrew from the deal to form US$17.4 bln petrochemical joint venture with state-owned Petrochemical Industries Co (PIC). Kuwait's Supremme Petroleum Council (SPC), at a meeting headed by Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser al-Mohammad al-Sabah, reached an agreement to scrap the deal which faced severe opposition from the members of the parliaments.

For more details on Massive Dow-PIC petrochem deal abandoned by Kuwait click here

Eastman Chemical Company, worldwide manufacturer and marketer of chemicals, fibers and plastics announced that its customer Gamila Products has unveil

Lubrizol Advanced Materials, Inc., a subsidiary of The Lubrizol Corporation announced that its Solsperse 72700 polymeric dispersant, provides higher productivity in many solvent-based packaging ink appplications due to its high millbase loading and shorter dispersion times.

For more details on New polymeric dispersant increases productivity in solvent-based packaging ink applications click here

A new-generation copolyester that is tough and offers an alternative to bisphenol-A

Eastman Chemical Company, worldwide manufacturer and marketer of chemicals, fibers and plastics announced that its customer Gamila Products has unveiled a new collection of tea and herbal infusers nammed.

For more details on A new-generation copolyester that is tough and offers an alternative to bisphenol-A click here

Japanese researchers to address global warming by newly developed high performance composite material

Researchers at Japan's Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) have succeeded in greatly enhancing the mechanical properties, including elastic modulus and strength, of plastic (aliphatic poolycarbonate) made from carbon dioxide (CO2), previously far from practical use, by blending with other plastics.

For more details on Japanese researchers to address global warming by newly developed high performance composite material click here

PET technology to cut weight of 46-ounce ketchup bottle by nearly 12%

ConAgra Foods, Inc., one of North America's leading packaged food companies, and Constar International, well renowned producers of PET containers bagged the World Packaging Organization's 2008 WorldSttar Award, the international packaging industry's most prestigious honor.

For more details on PET technology to cut weight of 46-ounce ketchup bottle by nearly 12% click here

Value-added solutions that meet new US standards for toys and products for use by children

PolyOne Corporation has announced its portfolio of value-added solutions that help customers meet new US standards for toys and products marketed for use by children. PolyOne has a number of products that comply with the Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), a US law expected to take effect on February 10, 2009.

For more details on Value-added solutions that meet new US standards for toys and products for use by children click here

Oil prices to steady in first two months of 2009

On Friday, oil prices ebbed to US$37.7 in London. Left with no other choice, OPEC members have started reducing oil supply in line with the group's biggest-ever output cut of 2.2 mln bpd agreed earlieer this month.

For more details on Oil prices to steady in first two months of 2009 click here

Kuwait calls off Dow Chemical's US$17.4 bln joint venture

Kuwait is to call off a deal to form a US$17.4 bln petrochemical joint venture with U.S. company Dow Chemical. Dow Chemicals (DOW.N) and Kuwait Petroleum Corp (KPC) announced a US$19 bln JV in Decembeer 2007.

For more details on Kuwait calls off Dow Chemical's US$17.4 bln joint venture click here

What mainly drove up oil and gasoline prices in 2008?

Oil prices peaked to US$147 per barrel in July 2008, and slid to less that US$40 in December 2008. When oil hit a record $147 a barrel in July, speculators were blamed as the culprits, as their investtment dollars increased price volatility to an extent that price of a barrel of oil moved up by over US$110 in just six months.

For more details on What mainly drove up oil and gasoline prices in 2008? click here

Indian Oil Corporation puts petrochem project on hold, to focus on refinery

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has decided to put on hold a petrochemical complex, originally planned to be set up along with a 15 mln tpa export oriented refinery in Paradip. Several factors have actedd in tandem to reverse the original plans of IOC including the global meltdown, the liquidity crunch and a three-fold increase in the combined project cost to over Rs 45,000 crore.

For more details on Indian Oil Corporation puts petrochem project on hold, to focus on refinery click here

LRM Industries to mold LFR-thermoplastic composites for America's electric railways

LRM Industries, LLC-a NOVA Chemicals / Envirokare Tech joint venture has been selected by Eastern Rail Corporation to manufacture thermoplastic composite infrastructure components for the America's ellectric railways.

For more details on LRM Industries to mold LFR-thermoplastic composites for America's electric railways click here

First biodegradable dental floss picks to be made using Cereplast's bioresin

Manufacturer of sustainable bio-based plastics Cereplast, Inc. will supply DenTek®, a leading American oral care company, with bioplastic resin for its new Natural Floss Picks, the first biodegradablee/compostable floss pick on the market.

For more details on First biodegradable dental floss picks to be made using Cereplast's bioresin click here

Structural insulated panels to outpace conventional framings in the construction industry

The pre-assembled structural insulated panels (SIPs) - polystyrene foam sandwiched between oriented strand boards for structural framing, insulation, and exterior sheathing needs- will increasingly ouutpace the conventional framings, reports greenbuildingelements.

For more details on Structural insulated panels to outpace conventional framings in the construction industry click here

Petro-Canada workers end 13-month lockout at Montreal refinery; new coker unit under consideration

The thirteen month old lockout between Petro-Canada-Canada's no.4 oil exploration and refining company- and its workers at its 130,000 bpd Montreal refinery has ended with the workers scheduled for coomplete resumption on Jan.

For more details on Petro-Canada workers end 13-month lockout at Montreal refinery; new coker unit under consideration click here

Constar's VCT™ PET bottle first commercialized by AriZona Beverage Company

U.S. based leading manufacturer of PET bottles for food and beverage markets, Constar International's Vertical Compensation Technology ™ (VCT™) - a technology of making panel-less bottle for hot-fill beverages- has been used by AriZona Beverage Company to launch a range of its ready-to-drink beverages in 20-ounce custom PET bottles.

For more details on Constar's VCT™ PET bottle first commercialized by AriZona Beverage Company click here

AkzoNobel acquires 75:25 ownership of Japanese joint venture

AkzoNobel has agreed to acquire a 75:25 majority interest in its Kayaku Akzo Co. Ltd (KAC) joint venture with Japan's Nippon Kayaku. KAC has been a 50:50 partnership between the two companies for nearrly 40 years.

For more details on AkzoNobel acquires 75:25 ownership of Japanese joint venture click here

LyondellBasell to increase PE prices in Europe

LyondellBasell Industries, one of the leading polymers, petrochemicals and fuels companies will increase prices in Europe by EUR 50/ton on all of its polyethylene grades effective January 1, 2009.



For more details on LyondellBasell to increase PE prices in Europe click here

China's CNPC to start work on Chengdu-based oil reefing and ethylene production facility

China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) is reportedly expected to start construction work for its new Chengdu-based plant in Pengzhou shortly. The facility will house a 10 mln tpa oil refining faccility along with 800,000 tpa ethylene production facility.

For more details on China's CNPC to start work on Chengdu-based oil reefing and ethylene production facility click here

Lack of movement steadies benzene prices in Asia

Uncertain of benzene market movement and trends, cautious market players were conspicuous by their absence. As a result, prices steadied at last weeks' US$310/MT FOB Korea. Absence of market players, stockpiles that could last until next month, coupled with the Christmas holiday has kept prices stagnant.

For more details on Lack of movement steadies benzene prices in Asia click here

Kazakhstan's KazMunaiGas stalls construction of oil refineries in Georgia

Owing to the current global financial turmoil, Kazakhstan has stalled construction activities of oil refineries in Batumi and Ceyhan seaports (Georgia), a senior official of the KazMunaiGas addressed in a recently held press conference as reported by Georgian Business Week.

For more details on Kazakhstan's KazMunaiGas stalls construction of oil refineries in Georgia click here

PP offers for January shipment are increased further

As demand from China continues to sound, firmness in the polypropylene markets has persisted, with CFR China January shipment deals getting concluded at US$785/MT CFR China. After successful deal concclusion at these levels, seller's offers have been hiked by about 10-15 dollars.

For more details on PP offers for January shipment are increased further click here

Water stable replacement for mercury catalysts for use in MDI elastomer applications

Leading worldwide supplier of catalysts, Johnson Matthey Catalysts has unveiled the new Snapcure2000 series titanium-based catalysts as replacement for mercury catalysts which are designed to exhibit similar or exceeding physical properties as seen with mercury catalysts while being hydrolytically stable.

For more details on Water stable replacement for mercury catalysts for use in MDI elastomer applications click here

American specialty materials maker to axe 250 fill time positions; eliminate merit pay for 2009

American specialty materials company, Momentive Performance Materials Inc. recently announced restructuring and cost-saving actions in response to the downturn caused by the current economic recessionn.

For more details on American specialty materials maker to axe 250 fill time positions; eliminate merit pay for 2009 click here

Propylene demand weakens in Asia on uncertain demand

Chinese buyers who have sufficient stockpiles for the month are refraining from further deal conclusion on the expectation that prices would fall. If deteriorating crude oil prices plummet naphtha priices with them, producers could increase run rates at steam crackers, augmenting propylene production and leading to a price dip.

For more details on Propylene demand weakens in Asia on uncertain demand click here

US oil inventories down by 3.1 mln barrels, gasoline and distillate stockpiles higher

As per data released by the Energy Information, crude oil inventories fell for the second time in 13 weeks by 3.1 mln barrels in the week ended Dec 19, while gasoline and distillate stockpiles were hiigher.

For more details on US oil inventories down by 3.1 mln barrels, gasoline and distillate stockpiles higher click here

Suspension of firm offers by suppliers for January shipment subdues Asian LDPE, LLDPE markets

Suppliers have suspended LDPE and LLDPE offers for January on limited availabilities, making the Asian markets almost dormant.
Suppliers from the Middle East and South Korea continue with CFR China LDPE offers at US$925-935/MT for January shipment, while buying interest remains pegged about 25 dollars lower.

For more details on Suspension of firm offers by suppliers for January shipment subdues Asian LDPE, LLDPE markets click here

Industrial Company profit growth slows in China

China-the world's fourth-largest economy, grew at the slowest pace in 5 years in Q3-08 amid reduced export demand triggered by the global financial crisis. Exports fell for the first time in 7 years iin November, imports plunged and manufacturing contracted by record.

For more details on Industrial Company profit growth slows in China click here

Downstream plant shutdowns bring down butadiene prices in Asia

Several downstream SBR, BR and ABS plants in China, Taiwan, South Korea and Japan have imposed production cutbacks or shutdowns. The resultant combination of deteriorating demand and mounting inventorries has affected demand for feedstock butadiene.

For more details on Downstream plant shutdowns bring down butadiene prices in Asia click here

Petrochemical industry in Korea could see massive downsizing next year

Korea's Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has announced downsizing of construction and shipbuilding businesses early next year. The other industries likely to get restructured leading to massive dowwnsizing in Korea are automobiles, semiconductors, petrochemicals.

For more details on Petrochemical industry in Korea could see massive downsizing next year click here

China's top ethylene maker forewarns of FY08 loss; curtails ethylene production by 30%

China's largest ethylene producer, Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Co Ltd has forewarned a loss for FY-08 driven by a 60% reduction in its major products largely due to drastic decline in price levels and deteriorating global macro economic situation.

For more details on China's top ethylene maker forewarns of FY08 loss; curtails ethylene production by 30% click here

PolyOne expects 15% revenue dip for Q408 due to decline in demand

Polyone Corporation has recently updated its outlook for the Q4 - 2008. The company expects the revenues to go down by approximately 15% in the Q4 - 2008 compared to the same period last year owing too a significant reduction in demand.

For more details on PolyOne expects 15% revenue dip for Q408 due to decline in demand click here

India's BPCL sells naphtha to Japan's Itochu at heavy premium of US$35/ton

Owing to low naphtha exports from India, Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) has fetched a relatively high premium of US$35-40/ton to Middle East quotes, FOB basis on the recently sold 20,000-30,000 tonss of high-aromatic naphtha to Itochu.

For more details on India's BPCL sells naphtha to Japan's Itochu at heavy premium of US$35/ton click here

Polyimide Foam named NASA Commercial Invention Of 2007

NASA has named the multi-use "Polyimide Foam" as the 2007 NASA Commercial Invention of the Year by NASA. The foam insulates for sound, heat and cold with aerospace and down to Earth applications. "Pollyimide Foam" can be flexible or rigid, structural or non-structural and is highly durable.

For more details on Polyimide Foam named NASA Commercial Invention Of 2007 click here

Colossal drop in product prices by 60% this year triggered by deteriorating demand has caused China's largest ethylene producer Sinopec Shanghai Petro

India's Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has decided to proceed full throttle with its proposed petrochemicals projects at Dahej in Gujarat. ONGC Petro-Additions, a special purpose vehicle set uup with Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation has placed orders to the tune of US$1.

For more details on ONGC places order to the tune of $1.4 bln for new ethylene plant click here

China's largest ethylene producer Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical expects to suffer major loss in 2008

Colossal drop in product prices by 60% this year triggered by deteriorating demand has caused China's largest ethylene producer Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Co Ltd to expect a major loss in 2008.

The company posted a net loss of 2.

For more details on China's largest ethylene producer Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical expects to suffer major loss in 2008 click here

Reliance expected to commission refinery before end of year

As opposed to speculation of postponement to the new year, Reliance Industries is expected to commission its second refinery in Jamnagar later this week. Reliance Petroleum is setting up a 29 mln ton export-oriented refinery in Jamnagar and is due to pass crude through the first Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) on December 28, the birth anniversary of the late Dhirubhai Ambani.

For more details on Reliance expected to commission refinery before end of year click here

London Brent crude slides to US$39: currently at 4 year lows

Oil prices have disintegrated by 78% since peaking to record highs above US$147/barrel in July, to four-year lows in London in volatile pre-Christmas trade amid a pessimistic economic outlook.
On Lonndon's InterContinentalExchange (ICE), Brent North Sea crude for February delivery tumbled to US$38.

For more details on London Brent crude slides to US$39: currently at 4 year lows click here

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

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices have ended the week of December 22, 2008 at new lows of US$33.8 in New York, mainly pushed down by lackluster demand. Earlierr in the week, OPEC's biggest output cut in more than a decade failed to stop a price drop as recession sapped demand.

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

DyStar and BASF ink joint R&D agreement for improving dyeing of polyamide fibers

Germany's DyStar Textilfarben GmbH & Co. Deutschland KG and BASF SE have recently signed a cooperation agreement on joint research and development aimed at improving the dyeing of textile polyamide fiibers.

For more details on DyStar and BASF ink joint R&D agreement for improving dyeing of polyamide fibers click here

Phthalate-alternative products that comply with US toy safety legislation

PolyOne Corporation, a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions, has recently announced its portfolio of value-added solutions that help customers meet new U.S. standaards for toys and products marketed for use by children.

For more details on Phthalate-alternative products that comply with US toy safety legislation click here

Saudi Aramco, KPC likely to jointly replace Mittal Investment in Vizag-based project

Saudi Aramco, world's leading oil producer and Kuwaiti state-owned Kuwait Petroleum Corp. (KPC), are reportedly in discussion with India's state-run Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd (HPCL) for combined iinvolvement in the massive Vizag-based US$10 bln refinery-cum-petrochemical complex in Andhra Pradesh.

For more details on Saudi Aramco, KPC likely to jointly replace Mittal Investment in Vizag-based project click here

Japan's Mitsui Chemicals to absorb MMA producing subsidiary

Japan's Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. (MCI) decided at a Board of Directors Meeting held on December 19, 2008, to merge its wholly-owned subsidiary, Kyodo Monomer Co., Ltd. with the parent company on April 11, 2009.

For more details on Japan's Mitsui Chemicals to absorb MMA producing subsidiary click here

Borealis reintroduces blow fill and seal LDPE products

Borealis, a leading provider of innovative value creating plastics solutions, has reintroduced its blow fill and seal (BFS) low density polyethylene (LDPE) products to the market in response to custommer demand for the continued availability of the high-performance grades for applications including soft and flexible bottles and ampoules.

For more details on Borealis reintroduces blow fill and seal LDPE products click here

Naphtha parcel for January lifting sold by MRPL at US$19/ton premium amid low exports

The strong demand for naphtha in the Indian domestic market and plummeting exports have fetched a higher premium for India's Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) on the 30,000 ton parcel ssold for January lifting from New Mangalore.

For more details on Naphtha parcel for January lifting sold by MRPL at US$19/ton premium amid low exports click here

Kraton Polymers to curtail 50% global SBC capacity to manage cash flow

Kraton Polymers LLC, one of the leading producers of engineered polymers, has announced to curtail global production of styrenic block co polymers (SBCs) by a massive 50% due to rising 'destocking' acctivity by customers and rising company inventory values as a result of low demand.

For more details on Kraton Polymers to curtail 50% global SBC capacity to manage cash flow click here

Growth of China's petrochemical sector slows last month

Deteriorating demand amid a global economic meltdown has stunted the growth of China's petroleum and chemical industry in November. As per the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Association, outputt value rose a bare 0.

For more details on Growth of China's petrochemical sector slows last month click here

Samsung Engg awarded US$1.4 bln contract for ONGC's ethylene plant

A consortium led by Samsung Engineering Co. that includes Linde AG, has signed a US$1.4 bln deal to build an ethylene plant in Gujarat, Western India. Construction of the plant, with annual capacity oof 1.

For more details on Samsung Engg awarded US$1.4 bln contract for ONGC's ethylene plant click here

Huntsman Corp receives US$325 mln termination fee from Hexion Specialty Chemicals

Huntsman Corp has received US$325 mln termination fee provided for in the Merger Agreement between Huntsman and Hexion Specialty Chemicals, Inc. Hexion committed to pay the termination fee in connectiion with the previously announced US$1 bln settlement between Huntsman and Hexion, Apollo Management, and certain of its affiliates.

For more details on Huntsman Corp receives US$325 mln termination fee from Hexion Specialty Chemicals click here

Equistar to temporarily idle second olefins unit

Deteriorating demand amid global economic meltdown has led to idling of olefins unit by Equistar Chemicals at Chocolate Bayou, Texas until demand builds up. The olefin unit has a nameplate capacity off 1.

For more details on Equistar to temporarily idle second olefins unit click here

Russia's SIBUR holding divests methanol business to focus on core activities

Russian major petrochem major SIBUR holding had recently announced to divest its methanol business to focus on the development of core activities, the company release said. SibMetaKhim LLC (a joint veenture between SIBUR Holding and Vostokgazprom) has sold its 33.

For more details on Russia's SIBUR holding divests methanol business to focus on core activities click here

Japan's Mitsui Chemicals to merge with wholly-owned Mitsui Chemicals Polyurethanes

Japan's Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. (MCI) has announced to execute a merger with its wholly owned subsidiary, Mitsui Chemicals Polyurethanes, Inc. (MCPU) by April 1, 2009 in order to strengthen its competeency in the polyurethane business.

For more details on Japan's Mitsui Chemicals to merge with wholly-owned Mitsui Chemicals Polyurethanes click here

PIC-Dow venture faces heat in Kuwait; opposition urges PIC to shun investment

K-Dow Petrochemicals, a massive joint venture between Kuwait's state-owned Petrochemicals Industries Co. (PIC) and US chemical major Dow Chemical has faced a lot of heat in Kuwait. Popular Action Blocc, an opposition bloc in the country, has accused the government of misappropriating the public funds amid the global financial turmoil urging PIC to pull back plans of outlaying US$ 7.

For more details on PIC-Dow venture faces heat in Kuwait; opposition urges PIC to shun investment click here

Head of BASF's Petrochemicals division to assume EPCA presidency

With effect from January 1, 2009, Dr. Albert Heuser (53), head of BASF's Petrochemicals division, will become the new president of the European Petrochemical Association (EPCA) for the next three yearrs.

For more details on Head of BASF's Petrochemicals division to assume EPCA presidency click here

Organic conductive ink enhances performance of advanced polymer-OLED devices

Plextronics, Inc., an American organic electronics company has recently announced that its conductive ink has been shown to improve the performance of certain P-OLED (Polymer Organic Light Emitting Diiodes) devices.

For more details on Organic conductive ink enhances performance of advanced polymer-OLED devices click here

High-speed machine series with IML application

At the Interplastica 2009 in Moscow from January 27 to 30, the Wittmann group will present itself to the Russian market with its new, powerful TM Xpress series, demonstrating an innovative in-mold labbeling application and exhibits from its extensive range of peripheral equipment.

For more details on High-speed machine series with IML application click here

Electric valve gate (EVG) for hot runner molds

Mold-Masters, leading company in hot runner technology, announced the introduction of an electric valve gate (EVG) for the hot runner marketplace that has superior performance characteristics to pneummatic systems, at the recently held EUROMold Show.

For more details on Electric valve gate (EVG) for hot runner molds click here

Rohm and Haas, IBM enter joint development agreement for new semiconductor packaging materials

Rohm and Haas Electronic Materials, a leading supplier of materials for semiconductor packaging, has entered into a joint development agreement with IBM to develop, as well as evaluate, new materials for emerging packaging technologies.

For more details on Rohm and Haas, IBM enter joint development agreement for new semiconductor packaging materials click here

Japan's Teijin Fibers to supply recycled polyester fibers for production of eco-friendly tire cords

Japan's Teijin Fibers Limited will supply chemically recycled ECOPET PLUS® polyester fibers for the cords of Toyo Tire & Rubber's PROXES® Ne tires-special tires designed for environmentally oriented ppassenger cars.

For more details on Japan's Teijin Fibers to supply recycled polyester fibers for production of eco-friendly tire cords click here

Dow Automotive announces sale of sealer and damper business in Europe and IMEA

Dow Automotive has announced sale of its sealer and damper business in Europe and India, Middle East, Africa (IMEA) to a group of European investors led by Katzberg Invest AG. The new company, formed to incorporate the sealer and damper business, is called Revocoat.

For more details on Dow Automotive announces sale of sealer and damper business in Europe and IMEA click here

Petrolimex wins Govt approval for setting up 10 mln tpa oil refinery in Vietnam

Viet Nam National Petroleum Corporation (Petrolimex) has been given a go-ahead by the Vietnam government to set up a Nam Van Phong Refinery in Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam News reported. The newly propposed refinery-nation's seventh in the offing-will have a refining capacity of 10 mln tpa and involve an approximate outlay of US$4.

For more details on Petrolimex wins Govt approval for setting up 10 mln tpa oil refinery in Vietnam click here

DuPont-Teijin Films to close Ohio-based polyester film line due to gloomy outlook

Global polyester films joint venture, DuPont-Teijin Films U.S. Limited Partnership has recently announced plans to cease operation of its polyester film line in Circleville, Ohio by Jan 31, 2009. The reasons cited for this action include a drastic decline in U.

For more details on DuPont-Teijin Films to close Ohio-based polyester film line due to gloomy outlook click here

China's fuel consumption tax not to affect domestically produced naphtha for ethylene production until 2010 end

In a bid to encourage energy conservation and economic reform, China's Ministry of Finance (MOF) and Ministry of Taxation have recently increased fuel consumption tax on naphtha, solvents and lubricannt oil from 0.

For more details on China's fuel consumption tax not to affect domestically produced naphtha for ethylene production until 2010 end click here

Uponor's underfloor radiant cooling technology to be used in a massive shopping centre

Uponor, a leading supplier of plumbing and heating systems in Europe and North America, will provide its underfloor radiant cooling technology for controlling indoor climatic conditions at one of Euroope's largest shopping centres (423,000 sq.

For more details on Uponor's underfloor radiant cooling technology to be used in a massive shopping centre click here

Bayer MaterialScience's multi-wall carbon nanotubes approved by U.S. EPA

Bayer MaterialScience has received regulatory approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for Baytubes®, its multi-wall carbon nanotubes. This enables the company to sell Baytubes® onn the American market and reinforces Bayer MaterialScience's role as one of the world's leading manufacturers of carbon nanotubes.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience's multi-wall carbon nanotubes approved by U.S. EPA click here

Colombia's Ecopetrol to outlay US$814 mln in refining & petrochemical business in 2009

Colombia's largest integrated oil company Ecopetrol, S.A. announced that its capital investment plan for the year 2009 will total US$6.2 bln, which represents a 35% increase as compared to the US$4.6 bln estimated for 2008.

For more details on Colombia's Ecopetrol to outlay US$814 mln in refining & petrochemical business in 2009 click here

IOC to fetch US$14/ton premium on January naphtha sold to Itochu

As against the previous naphtha cargo sold to Glencore at a discount of US$15/ton, India's state-owned Indian Oil Corp (IOC) on Friday has accepted to sell 30,000 tons of naphtha at a premium of US$144/ton to its own pricing formula to Japan's Itochu.

For more details on IOC to fetch US$14/ton premium on January naphtha sold to Itochu click here

NatureWorks LLC unveils new injection molding biopolymer grade for consumer goods segment

NatureWorks LLC, a biopolymer company and a JV between between Cargill (U.S.) and Teijin Limited (Japan) has unveiled Ingeo™ 3251D, a new and improved injection molding grade of Ingeo™ biopolymer. Thiis new Ingeo™ grade has been designed specifically for the consumer goods segments such as electronics, cosmetics, housewares, toys and custom molding.

For more details on NatureWorks LLC unveils new injection molding biopolymer grade for consumer goods segment click here

Braskem approves R$500 mln green polyethylene project; start up scheduled for 2011

Brazil's Braskem, a leader in Latin American thermoplastic resins industry announces that it's Board of Directors has approved the R$500 mln Green Polyethylene Project. This project will produce ethyllene and polyethylene from sugarcane ethanol, with operational startup scheduled for 2011 at the Southern Petrochemical Complex in Rio Grande do Sul state.

For more details on Braskem approves R$500 mln green polyethylene project; start up scheduled for 2011 click here

Eastman Chemical outlines cost-reduction actions for 2009

Eastman Chemical Company announced a series of actions to be taken to respond to current economic conditions while continuing to pursue its plans for growth. The company said that it will reduce costss in 2009 in excess of US$100 mln, 80% of which is expected to come from labor-related costs.

For more details on Eastman Chemical outlines cost-reduction actions for 2009 click here

BASF to augment low molecular weight, highly reactive polyisobutene production

BASF has planned to augment its production of low molecular weight, highly reactive polyisobutene (HR PIB) between now and 2010 by 25,000 mtpa. The polymer, marketed worldwide under the Glissopal® traademark, is an intermediate product which is used to manufacture additives for fuels and lubricants.

For more details on BASF to augment low molecular weight, highly reactive polyisobutene production click here

Germany's Röchling Group acquires Mexican firm; fortifies expertise in injection molded smart cards

Germany's Röchling Group has acquired a Mexican company that specializes in the production of smart cards. The acquired company, Haas Smartcard S.A. (HSC), previously a subsidiary of HKR Haas GmbH & CCo.

For more details on Germany's Röchling Group acquires Mexican firm; fortifies expertise in injection molded smart cards click here

LyondellBasell to up PE prices in Europe

Effective January 1, 2009, LyondellBasell Industries will increase prices by EUR 50/ton in Europe on all of its polyethylene grades, the company announced in a statement.

For more details on LyondellBasell to up PE prices in Europe click here

Equistar Chemicals pulls second olefins unit off steam due to market downturn

Equistar Chemicals, LP, an indirect subsidiary of LyondellBasell Industries AF S.C.A. will temporarily idle its olefins unit at Chocolate Bayou, Texas, citing declining market and economic conditions as reasons.

For more details on Equistar Chemicals pulls second olefins unit off steam due to market downturn click here

India's state-owned majors to do techno-economic feasibility study for a Petrochem plant in Bihar

India's state-owned Gas Authority of India Ltd (GAIL) have inked a memorandum of understanding with oil refiner Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) to perform a techno-economic feasibility study for setting up of Rs.

For more details on India's state-owned majors to do techno-economic feasibility study for a Petrochem plant in Bihar click here

Eastman, SK Chemicals ink 80:20 JV for cellulose acetate tow production facility in Korea

Eastman Chemical Company and SK Chemicals Co., Ltd. have inked a 80:20 joint venture agreement to form a new company, Eastman Fibers Korea Limited for construction of a cellulose acetate tow manufactuuring facility in Korea.

For more details on Eastman, SK Chemicals ink 80:20 JV for cellulose acetate tow production facility in Korea click here

Foster Wheeler awarded contracts by for 390,000 tpa PO plant in Thailand

Foster Wheeler Ltd. subsidiary Foster Wheeler International Corp. (Thailand branch) has been awarded contracts by MTP HPPO Manufacturing Company Ltd., a subsidiary of Siam Styrene Monomer Co Ltd., a jjoint venture between The Dow Chemical Company and Siam Cement Group.

For more details on Foster Wheeler awarded contracts by for 390,000 tpa PO plant in Thailand click here

No toxicological concerns on use of TiN nanoparticles in PET drinks bottle

A scientific panel of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has claimed that the specific use of titanium nitride (TiN) nanoparticles in a material used to make polyethylene terephthalate (PET) drrinks bottles did not give rise to toxicological concern.

For more details on No toxicological concerns on use of TiN nanoparticles in PET drinks bottle click here

Oil prices collapse below US$40, currently at over 4 year lows

Light, sweet crude for January delivery is down to US$40.06 on the New York Mercantile Exchange- a price last seen in July 2004. Despite an announcement by OPEC of a record production cut of 2.2 mln bbpd, oil prices have collapsed below US$40 for the first time since the summer of 2004.

For more details on Oil prices collapse below US$40, currently at over 4 year lows click here

Lucite International's Foster Wheeler built MMA plant starts production ahead of schedule

Lucite International's Singapore based 120,000 tpa methyl methacrylate (MMA) unit that Foster Wheeler designed and built has started production ahead of schedule. The factory produces MMA using Lucitee's Alpha technology, which Lucite claims saves 40%t on the cost of existing MMA production methods.

For more details on Lucite International's Foster Wheeler built MMA plant starts production ahead of schedule click here

Kuwait Olefins Company to use Meteor EO/EG process

The 600,000 tpa ethylene oxide/ethylene glycol (EO/EG) production unit of The Kuwait Olefins Company (TKOC) complex is employing the Meteor EO/EG process. The plant, known as EG-2, is part of the largger Olefins II Kuwait (O2K) expansion project, operated by Equate Petrochemical Company, and is slated to commence commercial production in late August.

For more details on Kuwait Olefins Company to use Meteor EO/EG process click here

Lanxess plans temporary production cuts and shutdowns in Germany in the holiday season

As demand continues to deteriorate amid a global economic meltdown, Lanxess plans temporary production cuts and shutdowns at 23 of its 45 sites in Germany over the Christmas and New Year holiday periood.

For more details on Lanxess plans temporary production cuts and shutdowns in Germany in the holiday season click here

Plastic Processing continues to advance in Central Europe

Central European countries have been experiencing strong economic growth over the last 5 years as a result of both the benefits of the EU membership and a relocation of many production facilities (andd/or establishing new ones) eastwards by Western European manufacturers in a bid to improve profit and follow their customers.

For more details on Plastic Processing continues to advance in Central Europe click here

Westlake Chemical pulls ethylene plant off-steam to shun overcapacity

Westlake Chemical Corporation, Houston-based petrochemical company has provisionally idled one of its ethylene plants in Lake Charles, Louisiana citing customer inventory destocking and decline in demmand for company's derivative products.

For more details on Westlake Chemical pulls ethylene plant off-steam to shun overcapacity click here

Braskem curtails capacity utilization rates

Brazilian company and a leader in thermoplastic resins in Latin America, Braskem has provisionally reduced capacity utilization rates at its Basic Petrochemicals Unit plants due to reduction in internnational demand and the destocking trend in the petrochemical and plastics production chain in Brazil.

For more details on Braskem curtails capacity utilization rates click here

Benzene prices steady in Asia

In a market abound with uncertainties, both buyers and sellers of benzene have opted to wait in the sidelines. As the market awaits offers and bids, benzene markets have remained dull and monotonous iin Asia, steadying prices at US$330/MT FOB S.

For more details on Benzene prices steady in Asia click here

Lurgi to build 140,000 tpa acrylic acid plant for CNOOC subsidiary in China

Lurgi GmbH, Frankfurt, a company of Air Liquide, France have been awarded a a contract by CNOOC Energy Technology & Services Limited, a subsidiary of China National Offshore Oil Company, to build a 1440,000 tpa of single-train plant for the production of acrylic acid from propylene in Huizhou, Guandong province (China).

For more details on Lurgi to build 140,000 tpa acrylic acid plant for CNOOC subsidiary in China click here

Stripped concept sports car houses a curved, transparent polycarbonate wind deflector

KTM, a leading maker of off-road vehicles has unveiled its lightweight sports car X-Bow (cross-bow) has employed Bayer MaterialScience's Makrolon® AG2677 polycarbonate for its 70 mm high transparent wwind deflector.

For more details on Stripped concept sports car houses a curved, transparent polycarbonate wind deflector click here

Asian PP market turns firm this week

Polypropylene markets of Asia that dipped last week, have recovered by about 15-20 dollars. The recovery has been led by increased domestic prices that have triggered an improvement in demand from Chiina.

For more details on Asian PP market turns firm this week click here

Kuwait Olefins Company to use Meteor EO/EG process

The 600,000 tpa ethylene oxide/ethylene glycol (EO/EG) production unit of The Kuwait Olefins Company (TKOC) complex is employing the Meteor EO/EG process. The plant, known as EG-2, is part of the largger Olefins II Kuwait (O2K) expansion project, operated by Equate Petrochemical Company, and is slated to commence commercial production in late August.

For more details on Kuwait Olefins Company to use Meteor EO/EG process click here

Lanxess plans temporary production cuts and shutdowns in Germany in the holiday season

As demand continues to deteriorate amid a global economic meltdown, Lanxess plans temporary production cuts and shutdowns at 23 of its 45 sites in Germany over the Christmas and New Year holiday periood.

For more details on Lanxess plans temporary production cuts and shutdowns in Germany in the holiday season click here

Plastic Processing continues to advance in Central Europe

Central European countries have been experiencing strong economic growth over the last 5 years as a result of both the benefits of the EU membership and a relocation of many production facilities (andd/or establishing new ones) eastwards by Western European manufacturers in a bid to improve profit and follow their customers.

For more details on Plastic Processing continues to advance in Central Europe click here

Westlake Chemical pulls ethylene plant off-steam to shun overcapacity

Westlake Chemical Corporation, Houston-based petrochemical company has provisionally idled one of its ethylene plants in Lake Charles, Louisiana citing customer inventory destocking and decline in demmand for company's derivative products.

For more details on Westlake Chemical pulls ethylene plant off-steam to shun overcapacity click here

Braskem curtails capacity utilization rates

Brazilian company and a leader in thermoplastic resins in Latin America, Braskem has provisionally reduced capacity utilization rates at its Basic Petrochemicals Unit plants due to reduction in internnational demand and the destocking trend in the petrochemical and plastics production chain in Brazil.

For more details on Braskem curtails capacity utilization rates click here

Benzene prices steady in Asia

In a market abound with uncertainties, both buyers and sellers of benzene have opted to wait in the sidelines. As the market awaits offers and bids, benzene markets have remained dull and monotonous iin Asia, steadying prices at US$330/MT FOB S.

For more details on Benzene prices steady in Asia click here

Lurgi to build 140,000 tpa acrylic acid plant for CNOOC subsidiary in China

Lurgi GmbH, Frankfurt, a company of Air Liquide, France have been awarded a a contract by CNOOC Energy Technology & Services Limited, a subsidiary of China National Offshore Oil Company, to build a 1440,000 tpa of single-train plant for the production of acrylic acid from propylene in Huizhou, Guandong province (China).

For more details on Lurgi to build 140,000 tpa acrylic acid plant for CNOOC subsidiary in China click here

Stripped concept sports car houses a curved, transparent polycarbonate wind deflector

KTM, a leading maker of off-road vehicles has unveiled its lightweight sports car X-Bow (cross-bow) has employed Bayer MaterialScience's Makrolon® AG2677 polycarbonate for its 70 mm high transparent wwind deflector.

For more details on Stripped concept sports car houses a curved, transparent polycarbonate wind deflector click here

Asian PP market turns firm this week

Polypropylene markets of Asia that dipped last week, have recovered by about 15-20 dollars. The recovery has been led by increased domestic prices that have triggered an improvement in demand from Chiina.

For more details on Asian PP market turns firm this week click here

New control system on a film line cuts time, saves money

The installation of a new Integrator™ C control system from Davis-Standard, a manufacturer of extruders and extrusion processing equipment, has economically improved film processing for B. Braun's Plaastics Business Unit in Irvine, California.

For more details on New control system on a film line cuts time, saves money click here

PetroChina-owned company awaits approval for massive expansion plans

PetroChina owned refinery, PetroChina Lanzhou Petrochemical Company has expansion plans for 2011 - 2015 to augment its crude oil refining capacity from 10.5 mln tpa to 20 mln tpa while increasing its ethylene production capacity from 700,000 tpa to 1,000,000 tpa.

For more details on PetroChina-owned company awaits approval for massive expansion plans click here

Oil prices rise to above US$44 before OPEC meet in Algeria

A barrel of oil prices rose above US$44 a barrel in Asia as the market awaits the size of the production cut to be announced by OPEC at a meeting in Algeria. Light, sweet crude for January delivery roose to US$44.

For more details on Oil prices rise to above US$44 before OPEC meet in Algeria click here

ExxonMobil to invest over US$1 bln in 3 refineries to boost diesel supply by 6 mln gallons/day

ExxonMobil Refining & Supply will invest over US$1 bln in 3 refineries to boost its diesel supply by about 6 mln gallons a day. Investments will be made in modifying the Baytown Refinery, and capacityy augmentation at the refineries in Baton Rouge, LA and Antwerp, Belgium, scheduled to be completed by 2010.

For more details on ExxonMobil to invest over US$1 bln in 3 refineries to boost diesel supply by 6 mln gallons/day click here

LyondellBasell grants Lupotech T License to Venezuelan Polimérica - its 20th

Polimerica, the joint venture between Pequiven, Petroquimica de Venezuela, and Braskem S.A., has selected LyondellBasell's Lupotech T technology for a new LDPE plant to be built in Jose, Bolivarian Reepublic of Venezuela.

For more details on LyondellBasell grants Lupotech T License to Venezuelan Polimérica - its 20th click here

Weak demand due to inventory destocking by customers compels Westlake to idle an ethylene plant in Lake Charles

Westlake Chemical Corp. plans to idle an ethylene plants in Lake Charles, La., due to significant customer inventory destocking and the resulting weaker demand. The plant will be idled until demand reecovers, and currently no jobs are affected.

For more details on Weak demand due to inventory destocking by customers compels Westlake to idle an ethylene plant in Lake Charles click here

Shell mulls extension of shutdown at Pernis

Shell is considering extending a shutdown at Pernis, Europe's largest oil refinery. The catalytic cracker at the 412,000 bpd Pernis refinery was scheduled to restart in the second week of December aftter it was shut for safety reasons when a fire broke out at a nearby pipeline.

For more details on Shell mulls extension of shutdown at Pernis click here

Uhde awarded contract to build aromatics plant in China's Hebei Province

Risun Chemical Company of China has awarded a contract to Uhde to build an aromatics plant at Tangshan (Hebei Province), to produce top-quality benzene, toluene and xylene valuable aromatic fractions from coke oven light oil.

For more details on Uhde awarded contract to build aromatics plant in China's Hebei Province click here

Huhtamaki to reorganize rigid plastic operations, axe workforce by 170

Finland-headquartered consumer and specialty packaging company, Huhtamaki is set to reorganize its rigid plastic Consumer Goods operations in Europe and Oceania as a separate, stand alone entity. Thiss reorganization will result in axing of roughly 170 employees in H1 - 2009 but will improve the competitiveness of the business and reduce the cost base by EUR 8 mln per annum, the company said.

For more details on Huhtamaki to reorganize rigid plastic operations, axe workforce by 170 click here

Dow Emulsion Polymers permanently shuts three facilities on weak market outlook

The Dow Emulsion Polymers Business will permanently discontinue operations at three of its manufacturing facilities in King's Lynn (United Kingdom), Varennes (Canada) and Pittsburg (United States). Thhe three facilities were already idled during the 2nd half of 2008 and were producing latex for the paper and carpet industry.

For more details on Dow Emulsion Polymers permanently shuts three facilities on weak market outlook click here

Germany-based plastics distributor K.D. Feddersen expands North European footprint

K.D. Feddersen, Germany-based plastics distributor has further expanded its footprint in Northern Europe post acquisition of Swedish firm, Materialdepån Norden AB which has begin operating as K.D. Fedddersen Norden AB.

For more details on Germany-based plastics distributor K.D. Feddersen expands North European footprint click here

PetroRabigh's 600,000 tpa MEG plant to begin operations in Feb 2009

PetroRabigh, a JV between Saudi Aramco (Saudi Arabia) and Sumitomo Chemical (Japan) will set operations at its 600,000 tpa monoethylene glycol (MEG) plant underway in February 2009, as against the iniitially proposed start up in October.

For more details on PetroRabigh's 600,000 tpa MEG plant to begin operations in Feb 2009 click here

CPC Corp postpone naphtha cracker resumption on low demand

The dearth of petrochemical demand has led Taiwan's government-owned oil refiner, CPC Corp to postpone the restart of its Kaohsiung-based No.4 naphtha cracker, reports Taipei Times. The naphtha crackeer was pulled off steam due to scheduled maintenance and repairs and its resumption was initially proposed for November end.

For more details on CPC Corp postpone naphtha cracker resumption on low demand click here

LyondellBasell starts up 15,000 tpa PP compounding plant in Nansha

LyondellBasell Industries has commenced production at its new 15,000 tpa polypropylene (PP) compounding facility in Nansha, China. The new facility is operated by Guangzhou Basell Advanced Polyolefinss Co.

For more details on LyondellBasell starts up 15,000 tpa PP compounding plant in Nansha click here

Ethane supply disrupted at Exxon's Australian venture as pipe ruptures

BHP Billiton Ltd, an Exxon Mobil Corp's venture in Southeast Australia has halted supplies of ethane to chemical plants in Melbourne's west after a pipeline ruptured. The rupture was caused by a ship that dragged its anchor during a storm across the pipeline.

For more details on Ethane supply disrupted at Exxon's Australian venture as pipe ruptures click here

Sabic IP plans to cut jobs in Europe

Sabic Innovative Plastics plans to cut over 200 jobs in Europe. The company is currently negotiating with representatives of the workforce, for which an agreement is expected to be reached in end of 22008/January 2009.

For more details on Sabic IP plans to cut jobs in Europe click here

Petkim to prolong maintenance break at aromatics unit

Faced with declining demand in the face of a global economic meltdown, Turkey's Petkim had brought forward its annual maintenance turnaround earlier last month. Continued to be faced with deterioratinng demand, Petkim has arrived at a decision to extend the period of its annual maintenance break at its main aromatics plant until demand improves.

For more details on Petkim to prolong maintenance break at aromatics unit click here

Arkema to temporarily close or reduce production at upto 40 sites globally

Joining the ranks of Dow, DuPont and BASF, French company Arkema has also arrived at a decision to reduce output or temporarily shutter its plants in a bid to cope with deteriorating demand caused by global economic meltdown.

For more details on Arkema to temporarily close or reduce production at upto 40 sites globally click here

Royal Dutch Shell shutters one unit at Moerdijk, Netherlands

Deteriorating demand caused by global economic meltdown has caused Royal Dutch Shell to shutter one unit at Moerdijk petrochemical plant in the Netherlands. There will be no job losses at the plant thhat employs 750 workers.

For more details on Royal Dutch Shell shutters one unit at Moerdijk, Netherlands click here

HPCL keen to increase stake MRPL

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) is eager to up its stake from the present 16.97% in Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), depending on whether ONGC decides to divest a part of its stakee in favour of HPCL.

For more details on HPCL keen to increase stake MRPL click here

As OPEC readies to cut output, oil rises to US$47

Monday morning saw oil prices in Asia rise to US$47 a barrel in anticipation of production cut by OPEC at its meeting on Wednesday in Algeria. Rising by almost one dollar, light, sweet crude for Januaary delivery rose to US$47.

For more details on As OPEC readies to cut output, oil rises to US$47 click here

A unique method for blending relatively low-cost thermoplastic starch with synthetic polymers or other bioplastics

Teknor Apex Company has signed a licensing agreement with Cerestech Inc. on a unique method for blending relatively low-cost thermoplastic starch (TPS) with synthetic polymers or other bioplastics whiile retaining high levels of key performance properties.

For more details on A unique method for blending relatively low-cost thermoplastic starch with synthetic polymers or other bioplastics click here

Polymer bandage for transplanted blood vessels may prevent bypass failures

A biodegradable polymer bandage that can be wrapped around a transplanted blood vessel to prevent it from thickening and restricting blood flow has been developed by a Californian company. The use of this bandage will eliminate the reason why a significant number of bypasses fail.

For more details on Polymer bandage for transplanted blood vessels may prevent bypass failures click here

BASF capacity expansion in Spain to meet growing polyolefin catalysts demand

BASF Catalysts has completed a significant debottlenecking project that has increased capacity by 25% at its production of polypropylene catalysts in Tarragona, Spain. The expansion that was completedd as projected in Q3-2008, has already come on line.

For more details on BASF capacity expansion in Spain to meet growing polyolefin catalysts demand click here

PetroChina consolidates operations at Ningxia

In a bid to make full use of its resources to build a 5 mln ton oil refining base in Ningxia, PetroChina Co. Ltd. plans to embark upon consolidation of business, assets and employees of its Ningxia oiil refining and chemical branch and Ningxia petrochemical branch.

For more details on PetroChina consolidates operations at Ningxia click here

KBR receives two contracts for engineering services by Sasol Technology

KBR has been awarded two contracts by Sasol Technology (Pty) Ltd. to provide, engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCm) services for one project and basic engineering services for thhe second of its petrochemical projects in Sasolburg, South Africa.

For more details on KBR receives two contracts for engineering services by Sasol Technology click here

New York signs legislation expanding consumer access to recycle plastic bags and product wraps statewide

New York Governor David Paterson has decided to sign legislation (A.11725/S.8643-A) that expands consumers' access to recycle plastic bags and product wraps statewide. The new law requires all large ggrocers and retailers that offer plastic bags to their customers to provide collection bins for a wide variety of plastic bags and wraps, thereby dramatically increasing recycling opportunities across the state.

For more details on New York signs legislation expanding consumer access to recycle plastic bags and product wraps statewide click here

Chemtura to slash 500 jobs as cost reduction measure

Chemtura Corporation, a global manufacturer and marketer of specialty products, is set to implement a restructuring initiative to reduce cash fixed costs by approximately US$50 mln due to a deterioratting macroeconomic environment.

For more details on Chemtura to slash 500 jobs as cost reduction measure click here

Smithers Rapra looks back at its 11th successful TPE conference in Prague in Nov 2008

Smithers Rapra, a subsidiary of U.S.-based independent testing, research and consulting organization, The Smithers Group, is celebrating the success of its first conference held in Prague which had ovver 100 delegates from the TPE industry in attendance.

For more details on Smithers Rapra looks back at its 11th successful TPE conference in Prague in Nov 2008 click here

Cereplast begins supplying bioresin to one of America's oldest toy companies

Cereplast, Inc., manufacturer of proprietary bio-based sustainable plastics, begin supplying its compostable resin for a new line of environmentally-friendly toys developed by Cadaco, one of America'ss oldest independent game and toy companies.

For more details on Cereplast begins supplying bioresin to one of America's oldest toy companies click here

European plastics recycling industry under threat

The European Plastics Recyclers (EuPR - www.plasticsrecyclers.eu) warns that the European plastics recycling industry is under threat due to a combination of circumstances affecting the market. The pllastics recycling industry has been growing and evolving fast over these past years.

For more details on European plastics recycling industry under threat click here

A. Schulman to curb North American capacity by 50%; European capacity by 7-10%

A. Schulman, Inc., a North America-headquartered supplier of high-performance plastic compounds and resins, has taken stringent operational measures in light of the global economic slowdown to tame coosts in North America and Europe.

For more details on A. Schulman to curb North American capacity by 50%; European capacity by 7-10% click here

SABIC Europe adds UHMWPE to its polyolefins portfolio

In a bid to expand its material portfolio in high growth sectors, SABIC Europe has added an Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) range to its extended polyolefins product portfolio under the brand name SABIC® UHMWPE.

For more details on SABIC Europe adds UHMWPE to its polyolefins portfolio click here

High performance sulfonated copolymers for ion exchange and high water transport applications

Kraton Polymers LLC, a leading global producer of engineered polymers, have recently unveiled the latest innovations in sulfonated copolymer technology-KRATON MD9150 and MD9200 - for remarkable perforrmance in ion exchange and high water transport applications, while providing a cost savings over current alternatives available on the market.

For more details on High performance sulfonated copolymers for ion exchange and high water transport applications click here

New stabilizer for manufacturing foam offers improved flame retardant properties, materials reduction

Specialty materials company, Momentive Performance Materials have recently unveiled Niax* silicone L-655, a silicone stabilizer for use in manufacturing flexible polyether foam. The new stabilizer cann offer a 10% - 30% reduction by weight of flame retardant use in slabstock foam applications compared to conventional stabilizers.

For more details on New stabilizer for manufacturing foam offers improved flame retardant properties, materials reduction click here

Arkema plans to acquire Organic Peroxide business of GEO Specialty Chemicals

French chemical company Arkema is planning to acquire the Organic Peroxide Business of the American company GEO Specialty Chemicals to fortify its Performance Products segment. "With this acquisition,, Arkema will secure a solid industrial base in the United States for the production of specialty organic peroxides," explains Rich Rowe, Managing Director of Arkema's Functional Additives business unit.

For more details on Arkema plans to acquire Organic Peroxide business of GEO Specialty Chemicals click here

INEOS to establish monthly contract pricing for ethylene and propylene from Jan 1, 2009

UK petrochemical company, INEOS have reiterated its support for monthly contract pricing mechanism for ethylene and propylene after backing the same in July, 2008. The company has proposed to establissh a monthly pricing mechanism effective from 1st January 2009 and is in discussions with its suppliers.

For more details on INEOS to establish monthly contract pricing for ethylene and propylene from Jan 1, 2009 click here

INEOS to establish monthly contract pricing for ethylene and propylene from Jan 1, 2009

UK petrochemical company, INEOS have reiterated its support for monthly contract pricing mechanism for ethylene and propylene after backing the same in July, 2008. The company has proposed to establissh a monthly pricing mechanism effective from 1st January 2009 and is in discussions with its suppliers.

For more details on INEOS to establish monthly contract pricing for ethylene and propylene from Jan 1, 2009 click here

New optimized PUR mixing heads for white goods and insulation applications

KraussMaffei, world market leader in polyurethane processing machinery, has brought out new, optimized versions of its PUR mixing heads for the white goods sector. The new optimized PUR mixing head moodels have been developed in response to the increasing use of pentane as blowing agent.

For more details on New optimized PUR mixing heads for white goods and insulation applications click here

Oil prices rise by over four dollars as Russia readies to cut output with OPEC

An almost 10% jump was seen in oil prices jumped as Russia has readied to join forces with OPEC to slash production in a bid to propel prices. Light sweet crude for delivery in January spiked by overr 4 dollars to US$47.

For more details on Oil prices rise by over four dollars as Russia readies to cut output with OPEC click here

MRPL revises phase III expansion costs, delays expansion by 15 months

Market conditions have delayed the phase III expansion project of Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) by 15 months. The delay, that has revised project costs by Rs 4,469 crore more, has hhelped it to re-engineer the process design.

For more details on MRPL revises phase III expansion costs, delays expansion by 15 months click here

New Kuwait Olefins Co EO/EG plant, largest of its kind to employ Dow Technology Licensing's METEOR™ EO/EG Process

Dow Technology Licensing, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated affiliates (Dow), today that the new 600,000 tpa ethylene oxide/ethylene glycol (EO/EG) production unit at Thhe Kuwait Olefins Company (TKOC) complex is the largest single plant of its kind to employ METEOR™ EO/EG Process.

For more details on New Kuwait Olefins Co EO/EG plant, largest of its kind to employ Dow Technology Licensing's METEOR™ EO/EG Process click here

November ethylene production in Japan ebbs to 12 year lows, falling 17.7%

November ethylene production in Japan has ebbed to 12 year lows, falling 17.7% from a year earlier. This output reduction to 535,900 tons that has been the lowest level in over 12 years for the month is partly due to output cuts by key producers.

For more details on November ethylene production in Japan ebbs to 12 year lows, falling 17.7% click here

Reliance Industries inks agreement for US$400 mln from JPMorgan

Reliance Industries Ltd. has signed an agreement for a US$400 mln financing facility from JPMorgan. The 11-year facility will help Reliance buy equipments from 17 suppliers in the United States, and iis guaranteed by the Export-Import Bank of the United States.

For more details on Reliance Industries inks agreement for US$400 mln from JPMorgan click here

Nippon Oil Corp. to shut naphtha cracker for 20 days

As petrochemical demand in Asia continues to deteriorate and prices fail to recover, several key players are reducing run rates or shuttering plants. Nippon Oil Corp., Japan's top refiner, is also mullling a twenty day shut down at its sole naphtha cracker in Kawasaki towards the end of the year.

For more details on Nippon Oil Corp. to shut naphtha cracker for 20 days click here

NatureWorks inks deal to extend bioplastics supply in Mexico

NatureWorks LLC, an American biopolymer company has struck a new strategic partnership with PromaPlast Resinas to distribute NatureWorks' bioplastics products in Mexico. This agreement signals NatureWWorks' long term commitment to broadening the supply of Ingeo™ biopolymer resin for the packaging, foodservice and injection molding industries.

For more details on NatureWorks inks deal to extend bioplastics supply in Mexico click here

Japan's Nippon Oil to put its naphtha cracker off steam in year end

Amid the down-sliding ethylene demand in Asia, Japan's Nippon Oil Corp has reportedly announced to provisionally shut its Kawasaki naphtha cracker till Jan, 2009. The cracker which has ethylene producction capacity of 404,000 tpa will see a brief 20-day down-shuttering as Japanese firm face a sluggish petrochemical market in Asia.

For more details on Japan's Nippon Oil to put its naphtha cracker off steam in year end click here

Nova Chemicals amends terms of total return swap to improve financial flexibility

NOVA Chemicals recently announced that it has amended the terms of the total return swap with respect to the US$126 mln of Series A preferred shares of NOVA Chemicals Inc., to eliminate the stock pricce trigger by which the counter-party would have had the right to terminate the swap.

For more details on Nova Chemicals amends terms of total return swap to improve financial flexibility click here

New cost effective solution devised to combine best of plastics and metals

Researchers at Germany's Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Applied Materials Research (IFAM) have devised a breakthrough solution that combines low-weight and cost effectiveness off plastics with electrical conductivity and resilience of metals.

For more details on New cost effective solution devised to combine best of plastics and metals click here

Ford's first crossover SUV employs SABIC IP's Noryl GTX resin for fenders

Ford Kuga, Ford's first entry into the crossover segment is the first Ford-branded vehicle on the road with plastic fenders molded from SABIC Innovative Plastics' lightweight, impact-resistant, and reecyclable Noryl GTX resin.

For more details on Ford's first crossover SUV employs SABIC IP's Noryl GTX resin for fenders click here

Arkema unveils fluorosurfactant-free Kynar 500® PVDF resin

French chemical company, Arkema has recently unveiled its Kynar 500® PVDF resin made using a new fluorosurfactant-free (FSF) process. The fluorosurfactant-free PVDF has been launched as perfluorinatedd surfactants, such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), have come under scrutiny by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

For more details on Arkema unveils fluorosurfactant-free Kynar 500® PVDF resin click here

BASF Fina Petrochem fined US$203,125 for environmental violations

BASF Fina Petrochemicals has been ordered to pay US$203,125 in penalties for environmental violations found during routine inspections. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality approved penaltiess totaling $877,222 against 69 regulated entities, including the Port Arthur plant.

For more details on BASF Fina Petrochem fined US$203,125 for environmental violations click here

Dow to shutter Styrene One at Plant B, Unit Two at Texas

As part of it's worldwide cutbacks, Dow Chemical Co. has effected the closure of two plants within its Texas Operations site. Styrene One at Plant B and Unit Two at Dow Oyster Creek Division will be cclosed as part of the accelerated transformational strategy Dow leaders announced Monday.

For more details on Dow to shutter Styrene One at Plant B, Unit Two at Texas click here

Petrobras plans to raise investments in petrochemicals for period 2008-12

Petrobras- Brazilian federal energy company is likely to increase investments in petrochemicals in the period of four years from 2008-12. Of the total planned investment, 85% is for domestic projects..

For more details on Petrobras plans to raise investments in petrochemicals for period 2008-12 click here

As market anticipates oil output cut by OPEC at its next meet, prices rise in Asia

As the markets anticipates production cuts of as much as 2 mln bpd by OPEC next week, oil prices have inched up n Asia. OPEC has signaled it plans to reduce output quotas at a meeting December 17 in AAlgeria.

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New specialty extrusion facility to service medical device industry

Foster Corporation has been working with OEMs to develop and manufacture compounds for medical devices for over 20 years. The company has opened a new facility dedicated to producing specialty tubing for the medical device industry to develop prototype tubing to shorten and simplify the device development process and facilitate their evaluation of new compounds and material technologies.

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Absence of transactions keeps HDPE markets lackluster

Deals for this month shipment have been concluded by most key sellers, hence a lack of transactions in the region have kept HDPE markets lackluster. CFR China offers continue to be heard at around US$$835-850/MT.

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Japan Mitsubishi Chem plans consolidation of naphtha crackers

Further deterioration in demand over the next couple of years amid a global economic meltdown is compeling several key petrochem players to rethink their strategies. As ethylene makers in Japan, Southh Korea and Singapore have carried out drastic cuts in run rates in recent months to cope with waning demand, Japan's top ethylene maker, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp is considering consolidation of its naphtha crackers, possibly with other players in the region.

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ABS prices plunge in Asia with another plunge in feedstock butadiene values

Butadiene prices in Asia that have plunged this week, have tanked upstream ABS prices by over 70 dollars. December offers from Taiwan and South Korea are being heard at US$1140/MT CFR China. After a ffew deals have been concluded marginally lower, CFR China buying intentions have been down revised by 25-30 dollars.

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Global financial crisis presses Braskem to defer construction of 2 plants

As yet another victim of the global economic meltdown and financial crisis, Braskem is considering postponing plans to construct two plants in association with Venezuela's state petrochemicals companyy Pequiven.

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Shaw awarded contract for PetroChina Daqing's 600,000 tpa ethylene plant in China

The Shaw Group has been awarded a contract to provide its proprietary ethylene furnace technology for Furnace Technology, Engineering and Procurement services for a 600,000 tpa grassroots ethylene plaant in China for PetroChina Daqing Petrochemical Company.

For more details on Shaw awarded contract for PetroChina Daqing's 600,000 tpa ethylene plant in China click here

BASF's Styrolux processed on industrial-scale using extrusion blow-molding

German-headquartered Kautex Maschinenbau GmbH, a manufacturer of extrusion blow-molding systems, has demonstrated processing of BASF's Styrolux® 3G 46 (styrene-butadiene copolymer) by extrusion blow-mmolding for the first time in Europe.

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Braskem's proposed Venezuelan venture to be postponed

The yet-to-be constructed US$3.5 bln polyethylene and polypropylene plant in José petrochemical complex, Venezuela is set to witness delay, according to Venezuelan press El Universal. The joint partnners for the project - Brazil's Braskem and Venezuela's state-owned Pequiven- may reschedule the construction start up in light of global financial crisis and decline in thermoplastic demand.

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Mold-Masters acquires French distribution agency; expands direct Sales into France

Mold-Masters, Canada-headquartered company and a global leader in hot runner technology, has recently completed the purchase of their French distribution agency in order to serve the growing French cuustomer base with a direct Sales and Service office for hot runner products and services.

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Taiwan's CPC announces NT$6.5 bln overhaul plans for third naphtha cracker

Taiwan's state-run CPC Corp has declared to outlay US$13.41 bln in 2009 for three projects, Taipei Times reported. One of the investment proposals is to invest NT$6.5 bln as a part of its 'Third Naphttha Cracker Renovation and Investment Project' in enhancement of the 3 decade old cracker through advanced production and environmental technologies.

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New auto lighting sockets, line connectors employ DuPont engg polymers to meet stringent demands

A leading North American automotive lighting component supplier, Empire Electronics Inc. is meeting more stringent demands for high-temperature resistance and durability in automotive lighting parts wwith new T20 sockets and the 2.

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Swiss-based FoamPartner Otto Bock starts Asian manufacturing base in China

Switzerland-based polyurethane foam manufacturer, FoamPartner Otto Bock has recently established its wholly owned Asian manufacturing base in Changzhou National Hi-Tech District, China. The newly estaablished FoamPartner Bock (Changzhou) Ltd was set up with a total investment of US$27.

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Dow set to re-evaluate scope of proposed Oman project

As a part of the realigning business in the light of global economic recession, the proposed joint venture between Dow Chemical Co. and Oman may witness a down scaling of scope. The three parties invoolved in the Oman ethylene and polyethylene project are Dow Chemical Co.

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Import duty on naphtha for use in the power sector will be eliminated in India

Import duty on naphtha for use in the power sector will be eliminated in India. Currently, naphtha attracts a Customs duty of 5%. India is self-sufficient in producing naphtha and meets almost all it''s requirements of the fuel.

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Current and future eco-friendly buying behaviors in the Polyurethane Industry

In a recent consumer study to support the marketing of natural-oil polyols (NOPs) created by Dow via RENUVA™ Renewable Resource Technology, consumers in North America and Europe revealed several imporrtant insights into their current and future eco-friendly buying behaviors- 68% said they expected to do more over the next 3 years to make their home more environmentally friendly.

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Dubai's DGCX to launch world's first region-specific plastic futures

The Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange (DGCX) will launch the world's first region-specific plastic futures on 5 February, 2009. DGCX will offer plastic futures contracts on Linear Low Density Polyethyylene (LLDPE) and Polypropylene (PP), creating a new and transparent pricing mechanism specific to two regions - the Middle East and South East Asia.

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India raises fresh trade dispute against EU at WTO over PET exports

The European Union has decided to continue with final anti-dumping duties as well as anti-subsidy (countervailing) measures on the Indian exports of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). India has raised a fresh trade dispute against the EU at the World Trade Organization (WTO) over this decision, saying Brussels allegedly violated core provisions of the Agreement on Anti-Dumping as well as Subsidies and Countervailing measures.

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Iran to go full throttle with petrochemical and gas deals with Malaysia

Iran has signed contracts for petrochemical as well gas development with Malaysia. Iran's Hampa Engineering Corp has inked a deal with a Malaysian company for a refinery-petrochemical complex in Terenngganu state of Malaysia.

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Dow to cut 11% work force, shutter 20 plants and hive off some businesses

In an effort to control costs in a scenario of global economic meltdown, Dow Chemical plans to cut about 11% of its work force totaling to 5000, shutter 20 plants and hive off some non core businessess.

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Oil rises after President-elect pledges biggest US public works program in 50 years

As President-elect Barack Obama pledged the biggest US public works program in about 50 years, that will create or preserve more than 2.5 million jobs; in a bid to revive the economy, oil prices rose..

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RTP Company starts new, enhanced quality assurance facility in Minneosta

RTP Company, a global engineered thermoplastics compounder, has invested in a state-of-the-art quality assurance (QA) laboratory at its Winona, Minneosta manufacturing facility. According to the compaany, the new 3,500 sq.

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DSM Dyneema patent upheld against challenge from supplier of rival fiber

DSM Dyneema, inventor and manufacturer of Dyneema®, the world's strongest fiber®, has won a victory before the European Patent Office Boards of Appeal. As per a notification received by the company, iit had successfully defended its patent for panels incorporating high-performance Dyneema® fiber against a challenge from Teijin Aramid (formerly Teijin Twaron), a Dutch supplier of rival fiber products.

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Rhodia Group impacted by 'short notice cancellations'; revises 2008 outlook

French chemical company, Rhodia Group has revised its 2008 outlook amidst the 'very challenging macroeconomic environment.' The Group has revised its objectives for the full year 2008 and now expects its recurring EBITDA to be about 10% below the level achieved in 2007, thus impacting its EPS objective for the year.

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Fire at Reliance Petroleum's new refinery fails to hamper operations

Reliance Petroleum's (India) new 580,000 bpd green field refinery cum polypropylene plant under construction in Jamnagar, Gujarat was hampered by a minor blaze. As per sources, the project constructioon infrastructure area of the refinery where waste material was accumulated set ablaze.

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Post consumer grade PET film with clarity, processability of 100% virgin material

US-headquartered INVISTA, one of the world's leading integrated polymer and fibers producers, has formulated PERFORMA™-R, a rigid PET film and sheet containing up to 25% post consumer recycled contentt and features color, clarity, and processability that is equivalent to 100% virgin material.

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Malaysia's Petronas closes PE plants at 2 complexes on demand dearth

Facing a dearth of petrochemical demand and down-sliding orders, Malaysia's Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) has brought shutters down at its polyethylene plants in Kertih (Terengganu) and Gebeng (Paahang) petrochemical complexes, Malaysia Star reported.

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Mitsubishi Chemical develops new technology to manufacture butadiene

Japan's Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (MCC) has developed a new technology to manufacture butadiene from butenes using proprietary catalyst and examined it at a pilot plant in its Mizushima Plant inn Japan.

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Brazil's Petrobras to up its petrochemical investments through 2012

In a bid to augment returns on its expanding output of oil and natural gas, Brazil's state-controlled oil major Petroleo Brasileiro SA (Petrobras) is reportedly considering up-scaling its petrochemicaals investment for 2008-2012.

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Iran to inaugurate Jam Petrochemical Complex -world's largest ethylene unit

Iran's Jam Petrochemical Complex (JPC), the world's largest ethylene production unit is set to be officially inaugurated. The Assalouyeh (South Iran) based petrochemical complex worth US$2.2 bln will have an ethylene production capacity of 1,320 mln tpa.

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Europe's RPC Group shuts Italian plant; close-down of Dutch, Czech plants likely

RPC Group Plc, Europe's leading supplier of rigid plastic packaging, has announced to close down its Mozzate-based factory in Northern Italy by June 2009. The company has also initiated a discussion wwith workforce representatives at Halfweg and Ravenstein in the Netherlands, and Aš in the Czech Republic of a possible shut down.

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Ashland to provide impedance monitoring technology to global composite market

Ashland Performance Materials, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc., has acquired the SmartTrac impedance monitoring technology from Denver-based Signature Control Systems (SCS). The acquisition renders Ashland to be the exclusive provider of this technology to global composite market and will aid customers reduce costs and improve composite manufacturing quality.

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AdvanSource Biomaterials awarded ISO certification for D&M of polymers for the medical device industry

AdvanSource Biomaterials Corporation, US developer of advanced polymer materials for medical devices, has announced that the Company's Quality Management System has received ISO certification through SGS United Kingdom Ltd.

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PolyMirae honoured for exceptional export growth rate

Korea-based PolyMirae Company Ltd, a joint venture between LyondellBasell Industries and Daelim (Korea) has been awarded the US$600 mln Export Tower Award by Korea's Ministry of Industry, Commerce andd Energy, for achieving an exceptional export growth rate of over 40% from July 2007 to June 2008, as compared with the same period year-on-year.

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Renewably sourced moisture barrier films introduced for carpet cushioning

Furthering sustainability commitments, DuPont has introduced DuPont™ Active Layer RS renewably sourced moisture barrier films for use in carpet cushioning as an alternative to the existing petroleum-bbased moisture barrier films.

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Breakthrough plastic electronics display technology

Plastic Logic's breakthrough plastic electronics display technology - an integral part of its yet-to-be launched new eReader product - has bagged the IDTechEx Printed Electronics Award for Technical DDevelopment Device.

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Coperion ramps up production of OEM screw elements for ZSK twin screw extruders

Coperion, a global provider of compounding systems and bulk materials handling systems, has considerably expanded its production capacity for OEM screw elements for its ZSK twin-screw extruders and innvested several millions of euros in its production facilities in Europe and the USA.

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PC/ABS for Laser Direct Structuring applications in mobile telecom devices

DSM Engineering Plastics has unveiled a new grade of Xantar LDS PC/ABS suitable for Laser Direct Structuring (LDS) applications. Xantar LDS 3710 was developed for antennas in mobile telecom products ssuch as telephones, PDAs and other applications where integrated circuitry is used to replace traditional printed circuit boards.

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Despite low buying interest in Asia, PVC prices markets continue at a firm note

PVC prices in Asia continue to hover around US$600/MT CFR China, as inventory levels with producers has started depleting due to reduced production. Though buying intentions for PVC have not been buoyyed, a hike in domestic PVC prices in China and dwindling stockpiles with producers has managed to continue on a firm note.

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Indian army vehicles protected against mines by Dyneema®

In the first large public tender of its type in South Asia, Ordnance Factory, India, has chosen and specified Dyneema® HB26 unidirectional (UD) composite from DSM Dyneema for armoring mine protected vvehicles for the Indian Army.

For more details on Indian army vehicles protected against mines by Dyneema® click here

Crude oil prices dip to hover around US$45

As the recession in USA, Europe and Japan deepens and slashes fuel consumption worldwide, crude oil prices continue to journey south. Fresh reports of weak US economic data have revitalized concerns oof slowing global energy demand, tanking oil prices to hover around US$45 a barrel - their lowest point since February 2005.

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Paraxylene and benzene plant shutdowns in Asia

South Korea's YNCC has pulled the shutters at its 120,000 tpa No.3 BTX plant at Yeosu and continues to run operations at the No.1 and No.2 BTX plants at a reduction of 40%. Indonesia's TPPI has alreaddy suspended BTX production of 350,000 tpa.

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Polypropylene prices rise in India

India's leading polymer producer has announced a hike in price of polypropylene with effect from December 4, 2008. Domestic Prices of PP have effectively been revised upwards :
PP IM/TQ- Rs 4000
PP Others - Rs 2500
Deemed Prices for IM, Raff, FF TQ, CP, BOPP have been revised upwards
accordingly.

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Dow Innovation Helps EU Importers with REACH Registration Compliance

Shifting its focus from REACH pre-registration to registration, The Dow Chemical Company announced that it has established the Dow Only Representative Trustee (ORT) to leverage REACH registrations andd thereby reduce costs all along its supply chains.

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Dow Innovation Helps EU Importers with REACH Registration Compliance

Shifting its focus from REACH pre-registration to registration, The Dow Chemical Company announced that it has established the Dow Only Representative Trustee (ORT) to leverage REACH registrations andd thereby reduce costs all along its supply chains.

For more details on Dow Innovation Helps EU Importers with REACH Registration Compliance click here

Twinwall PP reprocessed into new products for packaging and construction markets

Kaysersberg Plastics, European manufacturer of plastic sheets and a part of DS Smith Plastics, has recently started a major recycling initiative, inviting customers to return used Correx twinwall plasstic materials, which can then be reprocessed into a range of new product applications for the packaging and construction markets.

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Polymer solar cells demonstrated at an American conference

American developer of plastic solar cells, Solarmer Energy, Inc. demonstrated their public plastic solar cells that generate enough power to drive a small electrical device under bright indoor lightinng conditions.

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DSM sells Solutech business to development partner

Royal DSM N.V., the Dutch global Life Sciences and Materials Sciences company has signed an agreement to sell its Solutech business to Lydall, Inc., the US-based specialty engineered products manufactturer.

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ABS and PS prices continue to fall in Asia amid a bearish market

As market outlook continues to be pessimistic, CFR China ABS prices slipped to US$1200/MT, while GPPS dipped to US$700/MT. As lackluster market sentiments reign and unenthusiastic buying continues, moost CFR China ABS offers from South Korea and Taiwan have dipped to US$1220/MT levels.

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Year long delay in US$2.6 bln Qatar Petroleum and Honam Petrochemical Corp JV

Tight credit markets have led to a year long delay at a US$2.6 bln joint venture petrochemical plant to be built by Qatar Petroleum and South Korea's Honam Petrochemical Corp. Project financing has beeen hit, delaying project completion to 2012.

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Transparent and traceable packaging for poultry

In USA, Just BARE™ Chicken, a premium brand of fresh, all-natural chicken is to be packaged in a recyclable, transparent tray-addressing the full range of shoppers' concerns about buying, handling andd consuming chicken: from how and where chickens are raised to packaging issues relating to food viewability, handling, traceability and recyclability.

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Eastman expects significant fall in Q4 earnings

Eastman Chemical Co. expects Q4 earnings to fall significantly below expectations- Q4 sales revenues expected to be down by more than 20%. The unprecedented declines in demand, extremely volatile raw material costs have led to sharp decline in demand amid an uncertain global economy.

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Retail gasoline and crude oil dive to near 4 year lows

A recent review reveals that OPEC countries have managed to meet met barely 66% of the 1.5 mln bpd cut planned by the cartel in November, adding that Countries such as Angola, Iran and Libya failed too reduce supply as much as the cartel had pledged.

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