RTP Company's Sheet & Film division expands

US-based engineered thermoplastic compounder RTP Company has announced that its Sheet & Film Division subsidiary Wiman Corporation has purchased the Dupo, Ill., extrusion operation of OMNOVA Solutionss.

For more details on RTP Company's Sheet & Film division expands click here

Taghleef Industries and Brückner Maschinenbau: Highest BOPP line performance at 505 m/min

Dubai based Taghleef Industries (Ti), one of the leading film manufacturers worldwide, and Brückner Maschinenbau have set yet another remarkable milestone within the BOPP film industry: In Sohar, Omann, Ti`s latest high-performance 8.

For more details on Taghleef Industries and Brückner Maschinenbau: Highest BOPP line performance at 505 m/min click here

No technical barrier for recycling plant-based plastic bottles: NatureWorks

NatureWorks, US-based producer of bio-based plastics, has recently come to a conclusion that the current automated plastics sorting systems are capable of sorting bio-based plastic bottles from the peetroleum-based plastic bottles with a near 100% accuracy.

For more details on No technical barrier for recycling plant-based plastic bottles: NatureWorks click here

Plastics Manufacturing Ireland exhibition abandoned due to 'difficult trading conditions'

Plastics Manufacturing Ireland, the exhibition planned to be hosted by Dublin on 25th & 26th March, 2009 has been called-off citing "very difficult trading conditions, specifically in the Republic of Ireland" as the reason.

For more details on Plastics Manufacturing Ireland exhibition abandoned due to 'difficult trading conditions' click here

LUKOIL resumes PP production at its Stavrolen facility following overhaul

Russia's LUKOIL Group, one of the worlds's leading vertically integrated oil and gas companies, has resumed commercial output at its Stavrolen petrochemical facility (Russia) following a complete overrhaul of its polypropylene-production unit.

For more details on LUKOIL resumes PP production at its Stavrolen facility following overhaul click here

Dow Europe GmbH announces price increase for styrenic copolymers & polystyrene products

Effective March 1, 2009, or as contract terms allow, Dow Europe GmbH will increase its prices for all MAGNUM™ ABS and TYRIL™ SAN grades by EUR 50 per metric ton due to continuing increase in energy annd raw material costs over the last few weeks.

For more details on Dow Europe GmbH announces price increase for styrenic copolymers & polystyrene products click here

Solvay Advanced Polymers unveil stock shapes of Zeniva™ PEEK for implantable medical devices

Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, has launched a range of stock shapes made of Zeniva PEEK (polyetheretherketone), one of four polymers that comprise the company's family of Solviva™ Biomaterials being ooffered for use in implantable medical devices.

For more details on Solvay Advanced Polymers unveil stock shapes of Zeniva™ PEEK for implantable medical devices click here

Huntsman's Q4 net income up on US$1 bln merger termination settlement

Huntsman Corp., a Texas-based diversified chemical maker recorded a Q4 - 2008 net income of US$598 mln ($2.53 per diluted share) compared to net income of US$2 mln ($0.01 per diluted share) for the saame period in 2007.

For more details on Huntsman's Q4 net income up on US$1 bln merger termination settlement click here

Klöckner Pentaplast unveils two rigid PP films for 2-piece cup and container forming applications

Klöckner Pentaplast Group, a leading producer of films, has recently unveiled two rigid polypropylene films intended to be used in conjunction with one another for two-piece cup and container forming applications.

For more details on Klöckner Pentaplast unveils two rigid PP films for 2-piece cup and container forming applications click here

BASF's 2008 earnings decline; plastics segment swings to Q4 loss

BASF posted an 8% rise in sales for the full year 2008 to EUR 62.3 bln compared to last year as a result of higher pricing in all divisions. Income from operations (EBIT) before special items stood juust under EUR 6.

For more details on BASF's 2008 earnings decline; plastics segment swings to Q4 loss click here

Russia's Nizhnekamskneftekhim kicks off 230,000 tpa PE plant

Putting up a brave face to the deepening economic crisis, Russian petrochemical maker Nizhnekamskneftekhim Inc. has commissioned a new 230,000 tpa plant for production of plastics in Nizhnekamsk, a ciity in Republic of Tatarstan.

For more details on Russia's Nizhnekamskneftekhim kicks off 230,000 tpa PE plant click here

PC sheet eliminates hot spots, reduces shadows for e-sign applications using LED lights

Sheffield Plastics Inc., a Bayer MaterialScience Company and the world's second largest manufacturer of polycarbonate sheet, has introduced a new polycarbonate grade for electronic sign applications wwhich employ LED lights.

For more details on PC sheet eliminates hot spots, reduces shadows for e-sign applications using LED lights click here

PetroChina could defer oil refining and ethylene projects

Construction of two 10 mln ton oil refining projects could be defered by PetroChina Co. Ltd., partly to the markdown competition, a slowdown in the chemical industry growth, and a shift in economic coonditions.

For more details on PetroChina could defer oil refining and ethylene projects click here

Naphtha market softens as exports from India rise: IOC sells at sharply lower premium

As the naphtha markets soften on increasing exports from India, Indian Oil Corp (IOC) has managed to sell at a sharply lower premium as compared to previous shipments.
30,000 tons of naphtha for Marrch lifting from Kandla has been sold by IOC for March 17-20 lifting to Petrochina at a per ton premium of US$31-32 to Middle East quotes, on a free-on-board (FOB) basis.

For more details on Naphtha market softens as exports from India rise: IOC sells at sharply lower premium click here

Haldia Petrochemicals seeks upto 50,000 tons for second quarter

For Q2 shipment, Haldia Petrochemicals is seeking by tender, upto 50,000 ton of naphtha, either as one or two parcels, for May 16-20 arrival at Haldia port. The tender closes on March 2, with offers tto stay valid until March 9.

For more details on Haldia Petrochemicals seeks upto 50,000 tons for second quarter click here

None of OMVs projects in the Middle East to be shelved or downsized

Despite reporting a 56% fall in underlying operating earnings Q4-2008, Austrian oil and gas group OMV has decided that its performance will not affect the future of its unfinished projects. OMV has deecided that none of its projects in the Middle East will be shelved or downsized, including an ethylene cracker project in Abu Dhabi, oil projects in Iraq and Yemen, as well as a refinery project in Pakistan in partnership with IPIC.

For more details on None of OMVs projects in the Middle East to be shelved or downsized click here

Crude oil trades at highest level in a month

Crude oil for April delivery rose to US$43.11 a barrel on the NYMEX, Brent crude rose to US$44.95 on London’s ICE Futures Europe exchange. Crude oil prices have risen past US$42/barrel, trading at levvels near the highest in a month- As equity markets gain strength and US gasoline supplies decline, they have fueled the deduction of an improvement in fuel demand.

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Fujifilm develops film that offers world's highest level of moisture barrier property with transparency

Fujifilm Corporation has developed "transparent super high barrier film" – a film that offers the world's highest level of moisture barrier property with transparency. The film is essential for flexibble electronic devices, currently under research and development in fields including organic electroluminescence (EL) displays and solar cells.

For more details on Fujifilm develops film that offers world's highest level of moisture barrier property with transparency click here

Despite delays amid weak demand, Petro Rabigh set for full run in late March

Despite delays in start up amid deteriorating global demand, the refining and petrochemicals complex of Petro Rabigh in Saudi Arabia is set for full run late next month. The US$10.3 bln joint venture between state oil company Saudi Aramco and Japan’s Sumitomo, includes a 1.

For more details on Despite delays amid weak demand, Petro Rabigh set for full run in late March click here

Waterborne UV-cure resins for PU coatings help to reduce downtime

Bayer MaterialScience LLC's one-component waterborne ultraviolet (UV) resins, including Bayhydrol® UV resin, enable polyurethane coatings for floors that utilize the fastest cure technology for on-sitte flooring applications.

For more details on Waterborne UV-cure resins for PU coatings help to reduce downtime click here

PURAC, TOYOBO announce strategic partnership to produce renewable materials for packaging

World leader in lactic acid and lactides, PURAC (Netherlands) and developer of high-performance products, TOYOBO (Japan) have announced forming a strategic partnership for the production of renewable materials from the non-GMO lactides monomers of PURAC.

For more details on PURAC, TOYOBO announce strategic partnership to produce renewable materials for packaging click here

Georgia Gulf not in compliance with NYSE standard

Georgia Gulf, North American producer of chlorovinyls and aromatics for building and construction markets, faces a risk of getting suspended and delisted from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). The AAtlanta-based company, which recently posted a Q4 loss of US$198.

For more details on Georgia Gulf not in compliance with NYSE standard click here

INEOS ChlorVinyls announces price increases for S-PVC for March 2009

INEOS ChlorVinyls announces a price increase of EUR 80/ton for all it's S-PVC grades in Europe for March deliveries w.e.f. March 01, 2009. The company said the increase in price comes after S-PVC marggins further eroded because prices failed to keep in step with the monthly price increases of Ethylene during Q1 - 2009 preceded by a dramatic slide in S-PVC pricing during Q4 - 2008.

For more details on INEOS ChlorVinyls announces price increases for S-PVC for March 2009 click here

Rhodia swings to Q4 loss plummeting demand, customer destocking

French chemical company, Rhodia posted a 3.5% decline in Q4 net sales (EUR 1,126 mln) led by decreasing sales volumes particularly in its Polyamide and Silcea business. Other businesses posed strong rresistance to the deepening global economic crisis in the alst quarter of 2008.

For more details on Rhodia swings to Q4 loss plummeting demand, customer destocking click here

ARPRO seat core delivers 12 times better CO2 reduction than alternative

ARPRO®, an expanded polypropylene (EPP) material manufactured by JSP mostly used for making seat core in automotive sector, has been claimed to score twelve times better on its global warming potentiaal (CO2 emissions) than alternative.

For more details on ARPRO seat core delivers 12 times better CO2 reduction than alternative click here

Rompetrol Petrochemicals resumes production at HDPE unit

After successfully resuming LDPE (low density polyethylene) production, Rompetrol Petrochemicals, has resumed production at its HDPE (high density polyethylene) unit. The units were shutdown in end off November 2008, to cope with deteriorating petrochem demand amid a global meltdown.

For more details on Rompetrol Petrochemicals resumes production at HDPE unit click here

Oil prices advance with US stock markets

Crude oil for April delivery stood at US$39.65 a barrel on the NYMEX, after the previous days’ rise to US$39.96 a barrel. Crude oil gained for the first time in 3 days along with advances in the US sttock market.

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January naphtha imports in Japan fall by 27% from the previous month

For the month of January, Japan's naphtha imports for the petrochemical sector dropped 27% as compared to the previous month. Imports of naphtha for ethylene production totaled 783,907 ton in January as compared with 1,070,821 tons in December.

For more details on January naphtha imports in Japan fall by 27% from the previous month click here

Former Mitsui oil trader gets 5 years imprisonment for concealing loss

Noriyuki Yamazaki, ex-Mitsui oil trader has been sentenced to five years in Singapore jail for concealing losses worth US$81 mln after erroneous trading bets in 2006. Yamazaki pleaded guilty last weekk to falsifying documents, which were used by another department to prepare the estimated daily losses and gains.

For more details on Former Mitsui oil trader gets 5 years imprisonment for concealing loss click here

Lyondell claims ability to fund US$8 bln bankruptcy loan, even in case of abandonment by ABN AMRO

The bankrupt petrochemicals producer Lyondell Chemical Co has claimed in court that its lenders can fund its US$8 bln bankruptcy loan, even if ABN AMRO forsakes the deal. ABN AMRO, which holds approxiimately US$3.

For more details on Lyondell claims ability to fund US$8 bln bankruptcy loan, even in case of abandonment by ABN AMRO click here

Malaysian petrochem industry to rework its expansion plans

The Malaysian government has, for the past two years, been laying a thrust on the development of its nascent petrochemicals industry as a leading driver of future economic growth. Malaysia's oil and nnatural gas as petrochem feedstock became a major attraction amid rising energy prices, attracting foreign direct investment.

For more details on Malaysian petrochem industry to rework its expansion plans click here

Safi to acquire Ineos' VCM and PVC facilities in Italy

Ineos has signed an agreement with Safi at the Ministry for Economic Development for the sale of its VCM (vinyl chloride monomer) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) production facilities in Italy to Safi. SSafi is an Italian company owned by Fiorenzo Sartor and will acquire manufacturing facilities in Porto Marghera, near Venice and in the Sardinian towns of Porto Torres and Assemini.

For more details on Safi to acquire Ineos' VCM and PVC facilities in Italy click here

CNOOC plans refinery expansion, 1 mln tpa ethylene unit from 2011-2015

After a delay of about six months, CNOOC- China's top offshore oil firm, plans to start running its first major refinery in late March. A trial run is reportedly being planned at the 240,000 bpd refinnery located in South China's Guangdong province.

For more details on CNOOC plans refinery expansion, 1 mln tpa ethylene unit from 2011-2015 click here

OPEC cuts fail to have significant impact on oil prices

Monday morning saw light, sweet crude for April delivery dip to US$38.44 a barrel on the NYMEX as news that OPEC had slashed production by over 4 mln bpd was overhauled by news from the equity marketss of falling stock prices.

For more details on OPEC cuts fail to have significant impact on oil prices click here

Ferromatik Milacron to present energy-saving high-performance IMM for packaging at Plast Milan

Ferromatik Milacron, an injection moulding machine manufacturer, is all set to present CAP-TEC 200, an energy-saving high-performance injection molding machine for packaging at Plast 09 (from March 244 - 28, 2009) to be held in Milan.

For more details on Ferromatik Milacron to present energy-saving high-performance IMM for packaging at Plast Milan click here

UK's Rexam defies downturn; buys remaining 50% stake in Mexican joint venture

Rexam, a UK-based global player in rigid plastic packaging, has acquired the remaining 50% stake in its Mexican joint venture with Pavisa Industries. Accordingly, Rexam will assume full ownership of aa Tlalnepantla-based injection and extrusion blow-molded plastics packaging plant in Mexico City.

For more details on UK's Rexam defies downturn; buys remaining 50% stake in Mexican joint venture click here

KraussMaffei to exhibit manufacturing PUR parts with high-gloss surfaces at JEC Composites Show

One of the main areas of focus for KraussMaffei at JEC Composites Show in Paris (March 24 to 26) will manufacturing large parts made of fibre-reinforced PUR, with a high-gloss surface finish produced in the mould.

For more details on KraussMaffei to exhibit manufacturing PUR parts with high-gloss surfaces at JEC Composites Show click here

Japan's Mitsubishi Chemical to streamline TPA business due to decline in domestic demand

Japan's Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (MCC) has announced to shut down it 250,000 tpa terephthalic acid production facility at the Matsuyama Plant by December 2010 and to halt its 100,000 tpa paraxyylene production facility in Mizushima Plant by May 2010.

For more details on Japan's Mitsubishi Chemical to streamline TPA business due to decline in domestic demand click here

DSM Engineering Plastics, RESINEX join forces to develop market presence in Turkey

DSM Engineering Plastics, one of the leading suppliers of engineering thermoplastics, has entered into a distribution agreement with RESINEX BMY, the pan-European distributor of plastics, to collaboraate for the market development and sales of DSM Engineering Plastics resins in Turkey.

For more details on DSM Engineering Plastics, RESINEX join forces to develop market presence in Turkey click here

Key Plastics complete reorganization; exit Chapter 11 protection

Key Plastics L.L.C., one of the leading manufacturers of engineered plastic components for the global automotive industry, recently announced converting US$115 mln of senior secured debt into equity aand the closing of an additional US$20 mln equity investment, spelling an end to its Chapter 11 creditor protection.

For more details on Key Plastics complete reorganization; exit Chapter 11 protection click here

Canada's Nova Chemicals nods to IPIC's US$2.3 bln takeover

Amid a dismal Q4 performance and lack of finance availability, Canada-based Nova Chemicals Corp. has nodded to the US$499 mln takeover offer from the Abu Dhabi government-owned International Petroleumm Investment Co.

For more details on Canada's Nova Chemicals nods to IPIC's US$2.3 bln takeover click here

Arkema, Dyneon ink long-term supply agreement

Dyneon, a world leader in fluoropolymers, and Arkema, a world leader in fluorochemicals, have inked a long-term contract to supply HCFC22 (HydroChloroFluoroCarbon) to Dyneon in Burgkirchen (Germany). Arkema will produce HCFC22 at its Pierre-Bénite industrial site (France), from 2010.

For more details on Arkema, Dyneon ink long-term supply agreement click here

Environment-friendly alternative to traditional solvent-based PU coatings for concrete flooring

Bayer MaterialScience LLC, producer of high performance plastics and polymers, has unveiled two-component waterborne (2K WB) polyurethane high-performance coatings sealing concrete floors as an eco-frriendly alternative to solventborne polyurethane coatings.

For more details on Environment-friendly alternative to traditional solvent-based PU coatings for concrete flooring click here

New PP-compatible, high clarity SBC material unveiled for enhanced performance at lower cost

Kraton Polymers LLC, the world's largest producer of styrenic block copolymers (SBCs), has unveiled Kraton G1643, a SBC polymer with a hydrogenated midblock of styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS)) claimed to have enhanced performance capabilities and lower system costs.

For more details on New PP-compatible, high clarity SBC material unveiled for enhanced performance at lower cost click here

BASF creates world's lightest half-liter PS bottle

As a part of an innovation project, BASF has created a half-liter polystyrene bottle weighing a mere 7.5 grams - the world's lightest half-liter PS bottle ever - employing a conventional stretch blow--molding machine, the company said in a statement.

For more details on BASF creates world's lightest half-liter PS bottle click here

Sidel to supply blow moulds for Coca-Cola's new 'On-the-Go' bottle

Sidel Group, one of the leading suppliers of beverage packaging equipment having a robust worldwide network, have manufactured approximately 2000 blow moulds for Coca-Cola Bottling System's new On-thee-Go bottle.

For more details on Sidel to supply blow moulds for Coca-Cola's new 'On-the-Go' bottle click here

Machino to house 1000 mtpa PP compounding plant in Chennai

Machino Polymers Ltd., India's leading polypropylene composite material manufacturer, has decided to outlay Rs 1.99 bln (approx. US$40 mln) in a polypropylene compounding facility in Chennai. The PP ccompounding plant will have a of 1000 mtpa and will be supplied to the expanding automobile sector in India, which the company is projecting to rise by 11%.

For more details on Machino to house 1000 mtpa PP compounding plant in Chennai click here

LyondellBasell, Saudi university to collaborate for chemical catalysis R&D programs

LyondellBasell Industries and King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST), currently under construction near Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, recently announced signing a Memorandum off Understanding (MOU) to jointly pursue research and development programs in chemical catalysis.

For more details on LyondellBasell, Saudi university to collaborate for chemical catalysis R&D programs click here

Commercial production starts at Vietnam's very first oil refinery

The Southeast Asian nation of Vietnam proudly initiated commercial operations at the Dung Quat Oil Refinery - the nation's very first - located in the central province of Quang Ngai. Petrovietnam, thee state-owned oil and gas giant celebrated the opening of the coming on-stream of the US$2.

For more details on Commercial production starts at Vietnam's very first oil refinery click here

Teijin to demonstrate closed-loop recycling system at IETF, Bangalore

Japan's Teijin Group is all set to expand its environmental business in India via its Indian subsidiary, Teijin India Private Ltd. The group is participating in the 18th International Engineering and Technology Fair (IETF 2009), which will be held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Center in Bangalore, India, from February 23 to 26.

For more details on Teijin to demonstrate closed-loop recycling system at IETF, Bangalore click here

Mamata introduces 'eco-sustainable' pouch making systems

Generally, Pouches are defined as "Flexible Containers" made out of laminates / composite materials like PE/Alu.foil/PET/Paper, etc. Most of these materials are not recyclable and hence ecological susstainability of such products is debatable.

For more details on Mamata introduces 'eco-sustainable' pouch making systems click here

Thailand's SCG post 21% decline in Q4 sales, dismal show by Chemicals business

Siam Cement Group (SCG), one of Thailand's largest conglomerates, posted a 21% YOY decline in Q4 total sales to 55.1 bln THB (approx. US$1.5 bln) and a net loss of 3.5 bln THB (US$97.6 mln) due to stoock losses of approximately 5 bln THB (US$140.

For more details on Thailand's SCG post 21% decline in Q4 sales, dismal show by Chemicals business click here

Finland's Medisize to increase production of components for Sanofi-aventis insulin pens

Medisize, a European manufacturer of medical & diagnostic devices and pharma- packaging, has announced to set up additional capacity at its Kontiolahti (Finland) plant for production of components useed in Sanofi-aventis insulin injection pens.

For more details on Finland's Medisize to increase production of components for Sanofi-aventis insulin pens click here

New "compression blow forming" process to produce containers directly from resin

Sacmi, a well-known European plastics processing machine manufacturer, is all set to introduce its new "compression blow forming" (CBF) technology which it claims manufactures plastic containers direcctly from the resin.

For more details on New "compression blow forming" process to produce containers directly from resin click here

Braskem inks ETBE supply deal with Japan's Sojitz

Braskem, Brazil's leading petrochemical company has inked a long-term agreement with Japan's Sojitz Corporation to supply 120,000 ton volume of ETBE (Ethyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether), an automotive bioaddiitive for three years.

For more details on Braskem inks ETBE supply deal with Japan's Sojitz click here

Rompetrol Petrochemicals resume operations at HDPE, LDPE plants

Rompetrol Petrochemicals, the petrochemical division of The Rompetrol Group (Romania), has announced that it will resume operations of its High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low Density Polyethylenee (LDPE) installations, both of which have combined capacity of 60,000 tpa.

For more details on Rompetrol Petrochemicals resume operations at HDPE, LDPE plants click here

Victrex announces foray into Australian market

Victrex plc, a UK-headquartered leading provider of high-performance polyketone materials announced its formal entry into the Australian market. At recently held Australian Oil & Gas exhibition and coonference (AOG) in Perth, Victrex showcased its global expertise in the oil and gas industry and highlighting the latest developments in its polymer technology research.

For more details on Victrex announces foray into Australian market click here

Eastman increases Isophthalic Acid prices on March 1

Eastman Chemical Company is increasing prices on the following products effective March 1, or as contracts allow. These increases are due to elevated operating costs, particularly in raw materials, ennergy and freight.

For more details on Eastman increases Isophthalic Acid prices on March 1 click here

Amcor witness 9.5% decline in profits for half ending Dec 31, 2008

Australia-based packaging giant, Amcor Ltd posted a profit after tax and before significant items of A$167.4 mln (US$106.8 mln) for six month period ending Dec 31, 2008 down 9.5% from the same period in 2007.

For more details on Amcor witness 9.5% decline in profits for half ending Dec 31, 2008 click here

New liner-less flip-top valve dispensing closure launched for Coca-Cola's Powerade

Zeller Plastik Mexico, in conjunction with Global Closure Systems (GCS) R & D and United Closures and Plastics (UCP) in the U.K., recently launched SportGuard, a convenient and elegant new liner-less 38mm flip-top valve dispensing closure for the re-launch of Coca-Cola's preservative free sports drink, Powerade.

For more details on New liner-less flip-top valve dispensing closure launched for Coca-Cola's Powerade click here

SABIC develops new polyolefins for IM to broaden applications, improve conversion economics

SABIC has recently added a new High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) grade and two new Polypropylene (PP) grades for Injection Moulding to its product portfolio aimed at increasing the applications area annd improving the conversion economics.

For more details on SABIC develops new polyolefins for IM to broaden applications, improve conversion economics click here

New grades of UHMW-PE added with vitamin E unveiled for testing in orthopedic implants

Ticona, the engineering polymers business of Celanese Corporation, has unveiled two new grades of GUR® ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) with vitamin E for sampling and testing in ortthopedic implants.

For more details on New grades of UHMW-PE added with vitamin E unveiled for testing in orthopedic implants click here

China's petrochem stimulus plan gets govt. go-ahead

As China's economy witnessed a significant slowing down in the last quarter, the Chinese Government has given a go-ahead to the stimulus package for mainland's petrochemical industry, the State Counciil proclaimed in a statement on its official web portal.

For more details on China's petrochem stimulus plan gets govt. go-ahead click here

High-speed, space-saving system for production of 3-layer telecommunications pipe

Based in Greven, Westphalia, egeplast is Germany's biggest independent producer of polyethylene pipe, with the most advanced PE pipe production plant in Europe. In late 2007, egeplast began producing 3-layer telecommunications pipe on its new KraussMaffei Berstorff extrusion line.

For more details on High-speed, space-saving system for production of 3-layer telecommunications pipe click here

Japan's Ube Industries, Boeing join forces to develop new materials for aerospace

Boeing, the world leading aerospace company, has recently entered into an agreement with Ube Industries, Ltd., one of Japan's top chemical companies, to work together on development of new materials ttechnology for aerospace applications.

For more details on Japan's Ube Industries, Boeing join forces to develop new materials for aerospace click here

Steribottle, Rexam jointly develop BPA-free baby bottle

Steribottle, UK-based baby bottle manufacturer, in collaboration with leading consumer packaging company, Rexam have jointly developed MK3 bottle, the first 100% recyclable baby bottle, which iis also free of Bisphenol A (BPA).

For more details on Steribottle, Rexam jointly develop BPA-free baby bottle click here

Samsung Petrochemical, PSE to jointly develop high-performance PTA technology

Samsung Petrochemical Company (SPC), the leading Korean producer of purified terephthalic acid (PTA), and Process Systems Enterprise (PSE), providers of gPROMS modeling technology and process optimizaation services, have recently signed an agreement for joint development of new high-performance technologies for PTA production.

For more details on Samsung Petrochemical, PSE to jointly develop high-performance PTA technology click here

BASF's newly developed orange pigment listed in Colour Index

BASF researchers and application specialists have developed a new orange pigment that has been listed in the internationally recognized Colour Index (C.I.) as Pigment Orange 82. The company said it wiill market the orange pigment under the tradename Sicopal® Orange L 2430 for coatings applications and Sicopal® Orange K 2430 for plastics applications.

For more details on BASF's newly developed orange pigment listed in Colour Index click here

Westlake Chemical posts Q4 loss on inventory losses, reduced demand

Westlake Chemical Corporation, a Houston-headquartered manufacturer and supplier of petrochemicals, polymers and fabricated products, reported a net loss of US$109.6 mln ($1.68 per diluted share), on sales of US$597.

For more details on Westlake Chemical posts Q4 loss on inventory losses, reduced demand click here

INEOS ChlorVinyls to review pricing mechanisms for contracted PVC customers

In a bid to offset deceptive PVC market reports, INEOS ChlorVinyls has recently announced to review its pricing mechanisms for contracted PVC customers across Europe and to provide contract customers with more accurate and up-to-date information.

For more details on INEOS ChlorVinyls to review pricing mechanisms for contracted PVC customers click here

Successful restart for DuPont's Texas-based Sabine River Works site five months after Hurricane Ike

DuPont's Sabine River Works site in Orange, Texas has completed its restart project following Hurricane Ike. The ethylene unit at the site recently began operation 152 days after the storm struck the Texas coast.

For more details on Successful restart for DuPont's Texas-based Sabine River Works site five months after Hurricane Ike click here

LyondellBasell concentrates its distribution network in Italy on Com-Ital and Ultrapolymers Italy

LyondellBasell Industries recently announced that the company will concentrate its distribution activities in Italy to Com-Ital and Ultrapolymers, which will serve as the official distributors of the company's polymer products.

For more details on LyondellBasell concentrates its distribution network in Italy on Com-Ital and Ultrapolymers Italy click here

Georgia Gulf's Q4 sales down on lower prices, volumes

Georgia Gulf Corporation, a leading North American manufacturer of chlorovinlys and aromatics, reported net sales of US$535.6 mln for the Q4 - 2008 compared to net sales of US$776.4 mln the same periood last year.

For more details on Georgia Gulf's Q4 sales down on lower prices, volumes click here

Solutia clocks 13% decline in Q4 net sales

Solutia, a US-headquartered performance materials and specialty chemicals company, posted a 13% decline in fourth quarter net sales to US$429 mln compared to US$492 mln in same quarter last year. Howeever, the company recorded year-on-year increase of 4% in adjusted EBITDA to US$72 mln against US$69 mln in the fourth quarter of 2007.

For more details on Solutia clocks 13% decline in Q4 net sales click here

LyondellBasell unveils new PE-RT resin for hot water pipe applications

LyondellBasell Industries has unveiled a new raised-temperature-resistant polyethylene resin (PE-RT) to complete its range of materials used in plumbing and underfloor heating. The new Hostalen> 4731B high density PE resin is produced using company's Advanced Cascade Process (ACP) and is said to provide excellent long-term creep performance and thermal stability required for pipe applications.

For more details on LyondellBasell unveils new PE-RT resin for hot water pipe applications click here

Sidel develops PET compatibility evaluation service for sensitive drinks segment

Sidel Group, one of the world leading liquid foods packaging provider, has developed a package/product compatibility evaluation service for its customers in the sensitive drinks segment (juice, milk, tea, etc.

For more details on Sidel develops PET compatibility evaluation service for sensitive drinks segment click here

SIBUR posts 7% increase in 2008 petrochem production; low demand projected for 2009

Russian petrochemical giant, SIBUR recently announced that the company reported a 7% increase in the production of petrochemical products to 14.79 mln tons in 2008 as compared to 13.88 mln tons in 20007.

For more details on SIBUR posts 7% increase in 2008 petrochem production; low demand projected for 2009 click here

Sweden's Tenova Bioplastics AB acquired by renewable packaging provider Billerud

Billerud, a leading European sustainable packaging solutions provider, has acquired Tenova Bioplastics AB, a Swedish innovation company based in Norrköping that produces compostable carrier bags made of bioplastic.

For more details on Sweden's Tenova Bioplastics AB acquired by renewable packaging provider Billerud click here

Sound insulation for open-plan offices developed with multi-layer system of PU foam

In cooperation with Bayer MaterialScience AG, SilenceSolutions GmbH, a Cologne-based maker of professional acoustic partition systems, has developed a range of designs for effective sound insulation aand noise absorption in open-plan and group offices which can reduce noise by 20 dB (A) and more.

For more details on Sound insulation for open-plan offices developed with multi-layer system of PU foam click here

BASF launches 2-propylheptyl acrylate

Chemical giant BASF has recently launched 2-propylheptyl acrylate (2-PHA), a new raw material and building block for functional polymers, on the market. This step indicates company's steady expansion of its specialty monomers portfolio.

For more details on BASF launches 2-propylheptyl acrylate click here

New FDA-compliant TPE materials for medical tubing applications unveiled

GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers, a PolyOne business showcased a new portfolio of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-compliant TPE materials at MDM West held from Feb 9 - 11 at Anaheim, California. TThe new VERSAFLEX™ HC TPE materials, the company claims, are phthalate- and halogen-free with extremely low extractables for cleaner compounds that address health, environmental, and safety concerns.

For more details on New FDA-compliant TPE materials for medical tubing applications unveiled click here

Solvay Advanced Polymers' KetaSpire® PEEK and AvaSpire® Modified PEEK achieve ISO 10993 biocompatibility

Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, a part of Solvay Group recently announced that its KetaSpire PEEK (polyetheretherketone) and AvaSpire modified PEEK have achieved ISO 10993 biocompatibility compliance ffor use in limited-exposure medical devices and instruments.

For more details on Solvay Advanced Polymers' KetaSpire® PEEK and AvaSpire® Modified PEEK achieve ISO 10993 biocompatibility click here

Sealed Air's Cryovac® NatureTRAY™ package receives BPI-certification

The Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) has awarded its certification to Sealed Air's Cryovac® NatureTRAY™ package, confirming that the package meets the ASTM D6400 standard for compostable plasticcs as being biodegradable and compostable in municipal and industrial facilities.

For more details on Sealed Air's Cryovac® NatureTRAY™ package receives BPI-certification click here

Bayer MaterialScience highlights UVA cure technology for battlefield composite repair

In an effort to make aircraft battlefield composite repairs timely and economical, Bayer MaterialScience has developed a UVA cure technology that allows repairs to be made using the same UVA lights thhat were originally developed for the automotive refinish industry.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience highlights UVA cure technology for battlefield composite repair click here

US-based Berry Plastics to expand thermoforming operations by Q1 - 2010

Berry Plastics Corporation, US-based leading manufacturer of plastic packaging, has decided to expand its thermoforming operations by ramping up manufacturing capacity by first quarter 2010. This deciision, the company added, is driven support customers' growing desire for plastic thermoformed products.

For more details on US-based Berry Plastics to expand thermoforming operations by Q1 - 2010 click here

CO2-based degradable plastic project comes on stream in China's Hainan province

The unique carbon dioxide (CO2)-based degradable plastic chlorinated polypropylene (PPC) project, funded by China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) recently started operations in Dongfang Chemmical City, Dongfang, Hainan province.

For more details on CO2-based degradable plastic project comes on stream in China's Hainan province click here

Nanotechnology method discovered to effectively reduce gas permeability in packaging

A study by researchers at Ohio-based Case Western Reserve University (US) has led to a nanotechnology method that could block damaging gases even more effectively and lessen the gas permeability of poolymers used in food, medicine and even electronics packaging.

For more details on Nanotechnology method discovered to effectively reduce gas permeability in packaging click here

Pliant Corp files its US, Canadian operations for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection

Pliant Corporation, a leading producer of value-added film and flexible packaging, has announced to implement a financial restructuring plan via a voluntary Chapter 11 filings of its US and Canadian ooperations in the US Bankruptcy Court.

For more details on Pliant Corp files its US, Canadian operations for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection click here

SPIC pledged entire holding in subsidiary TAC in 2005

Southern Petrochemicals and Industries Ltd (SPIC), is reported to have pledged its total holding in subsidiary Tuticorin Alkali Chemicals and Fertilisers Ltd (TAC) in 2005, barely 4 years after the coompany went public.

For more details on SPIC pledged entire holding in subsidiary TAC in 2005 click here

Robust demand from China props up polypropylene prices offers in Asia

Polypropylene price in Asia elevated past US$910/MT CFR China, propped by robust demand from China this week as buyers seem to be in a mode to restock.

After successful conclusion of deals at thesse levels, sellers hiked most typical offers for next month shipment to by an additional 30-35 dollars.

For more details on Robust demand from China props up polypropylene prices offers in Asia click here

Sipchem secures US$360 mln as finance for acetyl complex

Saudi International Petrochemicals Company (Sipchem) said yesterday it secured 1.35 bln riyal ($360 mln) in financing from the state-owned Public Investment Fund for an acetyl complex. This follows thhe previously secured loans of 1.

For more details on Sipchem secures US$360 mln as finance for acetyl complex click here

Petrochemical industry posts negative growth in income for first time in 10 years

Total turnover in the petrochem sector in December 2008 dipped by 6.8% from a year ago levels. China's petrochemical industry is reported to have posted negative growth in income – its first decline iin ten years, indicating the impact of the global financial crisis.

For more details on Petrochemical industry posts negative growth in income for first time in 10 years click here

Octal plans capacity expansion to become market leader

In a bid to gain market dominance, leading PET packaging maker from Oman-Octal, plans to expand capacity at its plant in Salalah, take advantage of low priced raw materials. Octal, which is owned by aa group of US and Omani investors, started production last month on a US$350 mln (Dh1.

For more details on Octal plans capacity expansion to become market leader click here

Indorama Polymers plans to expand PX capacity

Thailand’s Indorama Polymers plans to ramp up production at its capacities as petrochem demand picks up in Asia. As buyers return to the markets, availability of paraxylene (PX), feedstock for Purifieed Terephthalic Acid (PTA) seems to restricted, spiking prices by over 300 dollars to US$950/MT.

For more details on Indorama Polymers plans to expand PX capacity click here

At US$34, oil prices in New York dip to hover around five-year lows

Data released mid week showing surging crude stockpiles in USA, at almost twice the expected levels, is an indication of weak energy demand in USA. This report has spiked taken crude oil prices in Neww York to US$34 a barrel, currently hovering near five-year lows of US$32.

For more details on At US$34, oil prices in New York dip to hover around five-year lows click here

Innovative waste disposal solution saves 30% cost for Germany's rural infrastructure project

In a bid to trim annualized expenses related to decentralized waste disposal system, Germany's Haarbach District Authority in Bavaria chose RAUPROTECT pipes from Rehau based on BorSafe HE3490 LS-H, a polyethylene material (PE 100) from Borealis to ensure a permanently leak-proof solid pressure pipe system for Anleng area residents, as part of a programme of local infrastructure improvements.

For more details on Innovative waste disposal solution saves 30% cost for Germany's rural infrastructure project click here

Saudi firm Sipchem bags US$360 mln funds for its Acetyls Complex

The Saudi International Petrochemical Company (Sipchem) said in a release that the affiliates of Acetyls Complex companies have inked a funding agreement with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) for SAR 1.

For more details on Saudi firm Sipchem bags US$360 mln funds for its Acetyls Complex click here

New short side chain perfluoro ionomer unveiled for next generation fuel cell industry

Solvay Solexis, an international fluorospecialties producer and a member of Solvay Group, recently unveiled an innovative perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) polymer named AquivionTM, characterized by shortt and light side chains specifically designed for today's Fuel Cell industry.

For more details on New short side chain perfluoro ionomer unveiled for next generation fuel cell industry click here

SABIC unveils HDPE grade family for industrial containers

SABIC's High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) portfolio has been expanded bringing a new grade family for blow moulding applications within industrial containers: SABIC® HDPE Industrial Container Product ((ICP).

For more details on SABIC unveils HDPE grade family for industrial containers click here

Zeus partners with Avancen MOD Corp. to manufacture, assemble wireless medication device

Zeus, Inc., a US-based producer of high-performance fluoropolymers, has recently announced partnering with Avancen MOD Corporation which produces MOD® (Medication on Demand), a wireless device that alllows hospitalized patients to directly access their oral pain medication from bedside.

For more details on Zeus partners with Avancen MOD Corp. to manufacture, assemble wireless medication device click here

Borealis appoints official sales agent to target the North American automotive market

Borealis, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, has appointed Polymer Z as its official sales agent for the North American automotive market. This development emphasizess Borealis' commitment to becoming a leading player in advanced plastics solutions for the automotive market in North America.

For more details on Borealis appoints official sales agent to target the North American automotive market click here

FRX Polymers announces joint agreement with Uhde Inventa-Fischer

FRX Polymers, Inc (FRX), the Massachusetts-based manufacturer of environmentally friendly inherently flame retardant plastic, recently inked an agreement with Uhde Inventa-Fischer (UIF) to build and ooperate a pilot plant facility at UIF's Domat/Ems Switzerland facility.

For more details on FRX Polymers announces joint agreement with Uhde Inventa-Fischer click here

Lightweight, durable wood shake alternative for wildfire, hail regions molded form rigid PU foam

US-based roofing systems provider, Eagle Roofing Products, a division of Burlingame Industries, has acquired the rights from Endurall Technologies to manufacture and distribute Ce-DUR™, an incredibly lightweight and durable wood shake replacement molded from Bayer MaterialScience's Baydur® 630 rigid polyurethane foam.

For more details on Lightweight, durable wood shake alternative for wildfire, hail regions molded form rigid PU foam click here

Celanese to shun VAM production at Cangrejera, Mexico by Feb end

Celanese Corporation, a leading global chemical company, has announced to shut down its 115,000 tpa vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) production unit in Cangrejera, Mexico, and cease VAM production at Cangrrejera effective end of February 2009.

For more details on Celanese to shun VAM production at Cangrejera, Mexico by Feb end click here

Sweden's biopolymer barrier material maker to expand pilot plant; fetches new investors

Xylophane, a Swedish company providing unique biopolymer barrier packaging material recently announced that it has raised US$4.1 mln from a shares issue for the expansion of its pilot plant in Göteborrg.

For more details on Sweden's biopolymer barrier material maker to expand pilot plant; fetches new investors click here

PLASTI&PACK PAKISTAN 2009 - International Plastic & Packaging Industry Exhibition

PLASTI&PACK PAKISTAN - POWER OF INTEGRAL SECTORS

Pakistan's economy grew at 5.8% in 2008. The plastic industry is said to be expanding at an average growth rate of 20%. The per capitaa domestic consumption of plastic material is 2.

For more details on PLASTI&PACK PAKISTAN 2009 - International Plastic & Packaging Industry Exhibition click here

Novotex Italiana to acquire European PU division of Belgium's Cytec Surface Specialities

Novotex Italiana SpA, a supplier of variety of PU resins and a part of the Italy's Coim Group has entered into an agreement to purchase the European business, technology and manufacturing rights of thhe polyurethane division of Cytec Surface Specialities (ex UCB) based in Drogenbos, Belgium by end of February.

For more details on Novotex Italiana to acquire European PU division of Belgium's Cytec Surface Specialities click here

Dow to permanently close Texas LDPE plant due to glut

The Dow Chemical Company has announced to shut operations at its Poly 2 LDPE plant in Freeport, Texas by March 2009 due to downturn in economy and LDPE glut in the North American market. The idling off the Poly 2 plant - comprising of the three autoclave low density reactors with a combined capacity of 225 million lbs - will affect 40 people.

For more details on Dow to permanently close Texas LDPE plant due to glut click here

Equistar to permanently shut olefins plant in Texas; to lay off 220

Equistar Chemicals, LP, an indirect subsidiary of LyondellBasell Industries AF S.C.A., announced to permanently shut down its Chocolate Bayou-based olefins plants in Texas and in the process, will layyoff 220 employees at the plant.

For more details on Equistar to permanently shut olefins plant in Texas; to lay off 220 click here

Saudi Aramco - Sumitomo refining & petrochem JV to go onstream by March

Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical Company (Saudi Arabia), a joint venture between Saudi Aramco and Japan's Sumitomo Chemical, has announced to initiate commercial production before end of Q1 2009, deffying any signs of reduced global demand.

For more details on Saudi Aramco - Sumitomo refining & petrochem JV to go onstream by March click here

NatureWorks achieves breakthrough in bioplastics manufacturing process with lower CO2 emissions, energy use

American bio-based plastics developer, NatureWorks LLC has achieved a manufacturing breakthrough with its plant-based Ingeo™ plastics. As per the company release, a new proprietary manufacturing proceess commissioned late last year lowers CO2 emissions by 60% and reduces by 30% the energy required for production of Ingeo™ plastics compared to previous manufacturing process.

For more details on NatureWorks achieves breakthrough in bioplastics manufacturing process with lower CO2 emissions, energy use click here

Total's Q4 adjusted net income dips 8% YOY

Total, French integrated oil company clocked an 8% YOY decline in Q4 adjusted net income to reach EUR 2.9 bln (US$3.8 bln) due to steep decline in oil prices which curtailed production, the company's financial statement read.

For more details on Total's Q4 adjusted net income dips 8% YOY click here

New medical grade polymers to offer balance of design, molding & end-product properties

Eastman Chemical Company recently unveiled its new family of medical-grade polymers at the Medical Design & Manufacturing West trade show Feb. 9 to 12, 2009, in Anaheim, Calif. The company said in a rrelease that the newly launched grades of Eastman Tritan™ copolyester are innovative, clear polymers that deliver a balance of design, molding and end-product properties for medical devices.

For more details on New medical grade polymers to offer balance of design, molding & end-product properties click here

ONGC may offer stake in petchem plant at Dahej to GAIL, Petronet LNG

GAIL could be offerd a 15-20% stake by Oil and Natural Gas Corp in the under construction petrochem project at Dahej, Gujarat to be set up by ONGC Petro additions Ltd (OPaL). Petronet LNG could also gget a 5% stake in the project and upto 25% of the project may be offloaded through a public offer within 18 months.

For more details on ONGC may offer stake in petchem plant at Dahej to GAIL, Petronet LNG click here

Rs 2,500 crore PP plant in Ludhiana could follow Rs 18,900 crore GGSRL at Bhatinda

As construction is underway in full swing at the Rs 18,900 crore Guru Gobind Singh Refineries Ltd (GGSRL) being commissioned at Bathinda (Punjab), HPCL-Mittal Energy Ltd (HMEL) is mulling the developmment of a Rs 2,500 crore polypropylene unit in Ludhiana to produce 400,000 tpa of PP.

For more details on Rs 2,500 crore PP plant in Ludhiana could follow Rs 18,900 crore GGSRL at Bhatinda click here

Robust PVC markets buoy EDC and VCM prices

CFR Asia EDC prices have been boosted to US$200/MT by stronger PVC market outlook and prices. As buying was concluded at these levels, sellers have moved to increase offers by about 50 dollars. VCM prrices have crossed the 600 dollar mark in Asia, in line with the improving PVC market sentiments and strengthening downstream demand and prices.

For more details on Robust PVC markets buoy EDC and VCM prices click here

Supreme Court stays Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal's order

The Supreme Court has stayed the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal's order, asking banks to release on a monthly basis, Rs. 13 crore to Southern Petrochemicals Industries Corporation (SPIC) to restart and operate the plant.

For more details on Supreme Court stays Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal's order click here

Adnoc offers naphtha at premiums 6-8 times higher than previous premium

Abu Dhabi National Oil Co (Adnoc) has offered April 2009-March 2010 naphtha supplies at premiums at 6-8 times more than the premium fetched for its previous contract of December 2008-November 2009. Peentane-plus grade was offered at a US$26/ton premium to Middle East quotes, on a free-on-board (FOB) basis, and splitter naphtha was offered at a premium of US$23.

For more details on Adnoc offers naphtha at premiums 6-8 times higher than previous premium click here

Indian majors sell naphtha cargoes at premiums

Indian Oil Corp (IOC) sold three parcels of naphtha totaling 91,500-94,500 tons for March-May lifting from Dahej by tender to Chevron at a steep premium of over US$25/ton to Middle East quotes on a frree-on-board (FOB) basis.

For more details on Indian majors sell naphtha cargoes at premiums click here

ONGC awards contract to Linde Group and consortium partner Samsung Engineering

The Linde Group and its consortium partner Samsung Engineering (Korea) have been awarded a Rs 68 bln (US$1.39 bln) contract to build a turnkey ethylene plant at Dahej, Gujarat. The plant has been commmissioned by ONGC Petro-additions Ltd, a subsidiary of ONGC.

For more details on ONGC awards contract to Linde Group and consortium partner Samsung Engineering click here

Asian SM prices rise on increasing benzene values, fortified downstream buying, restricted avails on reduced runs

Styrene Monomer prices are on the rise in Asia this week, crossing the 700 dollar mark. Several factors were responsible for taking offers to US$755/MT CFR China. These include increasing value of feeedstock benzene, fortified buying interest from derivative markets of PS, ABS and EPS along with tight availabilities in the continent resulting from reduced run rates and plant shutdowns.

For more details on Asian SM prices rise on increasing benzene values, fortified downstream buying, restricted avails on reduced runs click here

Pipe coating market rises to 190 mln sq mtrs in 2007, with 15% global annual growth rate

The pipeline coating market has risen from 120 million square meters in 2004 to 190 million square meters in 2007 with a global annual growth rate of 15%, according to research conducted by Noru Tsaliic at Applied Market Information.

For more details on Pipe coating market rises to 190 mln sq mtrs in 2007, with 15% global annual growth rate click here

Bayer MaterialScience unveils PC/ABS blend for surface device applications in health care market

Bayer MaterialScience LLC (BMS) has unveiled the flame retardant (FR) polycarbonate/ABS blend, Bayblend® M301 FR for use in the health care market, specifically for surface device applications contactting intact skin.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience unveils PC/ABS blend for surface device applications in health care market click here

Bayer MaterialScience unveils PC/ABS blend for surface device applications in health care market

Bayer MaterialScience LLC (BMS) has unveiled the flame retardant (FR) polycarbonate/ABS blend, Bayblend® M301 FR for use in the health care market, specifically for surface device applications contactting intact skin.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience unveils PC/ABS blend for surface device applications in health care market click here

INVISTA lessens debt by more than 63%

Leading integrated manufacturer polymers and fibers, INVISTA B.V. recently announced that the company along with its subsidiaries has curtailed its total debt by US$1.6 bln (more than 63%) as part of a move to position the company for the current and future business environment.

For more details on INVISTA lessens debt by more than 63% click here

Arkema divests one of its two Italian Vinyl Compounding site

French chemical producer, Arkema has divested its Vanzaghello-based Vinyl Compounding in Italy to the Italian company Industrie Generali spa (IGS) in order to refocus its vinyl compound range on high--tech applications, in particular in the medical equipment market.

For more details on Arkema divests one of its two Italian Vinyl Compounding site click here

KRAIBURG's TPE resins employed to manufacture reusable hydration vessel

Three different thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) resins from KRAIBURG TPE had been employed by California-based clean water solutions provider, KOR Water to manufacture the new reusable KOR ONE Hydrationn Vessel.

For more details on KRAIBURG's TPE resins employed to manufacture reusable hydration vessel click here

New boron-based, non-halogenated FR additive with loading levels as low as 3%

Applied NanoWorks (ANW), an inorganic materials development company, has announced FlexB™, a boron-based, non-halogenated flame retardant (FR) additive for nylon, epoxies and water-based coatings. Matterial testing has achieved UL-94 V-0 ratings with FlexB loading levels as low as 3%.

For more details on New boron-based, non-halogenated FR additive with loading levels as low as 3% click here

High performance polyamide for electronics launched by DSM Engineering Plastics

DSM Engineering Plastics has launched its new halogen free, flame retardant, high temperature polyamide by the trade name Stanyl® ForTii™ which will extend the portfolio for high performance engineeriing thermoplastics.

For more details on High performance polyamide for electronics launched by DSM Engineering Plastics click here

Borouge South East Asia (SEA) Logistics Hub to be established in Singapore

Borouge, a joint venture between the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Borealis, has signed a service contract with Singapore's CWT Logistics Pte. Ltd. to establish Borouge South East Asia (SSEA) Logistics Hub.

For more details on Borouge South East Asia (SEA) Logistics Hub to be established in Singapore click here

Government considers stimulus package for domestic petrochemical industry in China

China's government is reportedly considering a US$73 bln stimulus package for the domestic petrochemical industry in an attempt to help the industry combat effects of the global economic meltdown. It is reported that the stimulus package will include an investment in 2009 and 2010 for upgrades in oil products, and an investment for the construction of 20 new large-scale petrochemical projects.

For more details on Government considers stimulus package for domestic petrochemical industry in China click here

Directors of Dow sued by an investor

Directors of USA's largest chemical maker Dow, were sued by an investor in a so-called derivative lawsuit, also seeks damages from some board members on behalf of Midland-based Dow. The investor has aasked that CEO Andrew Liveris be fired for mismanaging a failed US$15.

For more details on Directors of Dow sued by an investor click here

India's naphtha exports to rise on dwindling domestic demand as fertilizer and power sectors proceed with gas substitution

Export of naphtha from India is expected to rise by over 35% in the next 3 years as demand from the fertilizer and power sectors is projected to contract as a result of increased preference to use of gas as feedstock.

For more details on India's naphtha exports to rise on dwindling domestic demand as fertilizer and power sectors proceed with gas substitution click here

Alberta refuses to rescue Nova Chemicals Corp.

Alberta Premier's categorical refusal to rescue Nova Chemicals Corp. has not come as a surprise to many. Nova's business is viewed as faltering from bad choice of decisions by the company, including mmoving its headquarters from Calgary, Alberta, to the United States a decade ago.

For more details on Alberta refuses to rescue Nova Chemicals Corp. click here

Sinopec's 1 mln tpa ethylene plant at Tianjin ethylene to come onstream

Sinopec's new 1 mln tpa ethylene refining plant sited in in Tianjin Municipality is expected to go into operation this year. Construction of the new plant with an investment outlay of RMB 26 bln begann in June 2006.

For more details on Sinopec's 1 mln tpa ethylene plant at Tianjin ethylene to come onstream click here

Huntsman defers design and feasibility studies for MDI plant planned at Rozenburg, Netherlands

The global economic meltdown and the subsequent downturn has trimmed current and projected demand for the next couple of years. Since existing production capacity currently seems sufficient to meet cuurrent demand for MDI-based polyurethanes, Huntsman Corporation has announced suspension of design and feasibility studies for its planned investment in a new 400,000 ton methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) plant at its site in Rozenburg, the Netherlands.

For more details on Huntsman defers design and feasibility studies for MDI plant planned at Rozenburg, Netherlands click here

Kolsite Group, Gloucester Engineering ink JV for blown film plants

India's largest manufacturer and exporter of plastic extrusion machinery Kolsite Group, and one of North America's largest manufacturers and exporters of plastic extrusion machinery, Gloucester Engineeering Co Inc.

For more details on Kolsite Group, Gloucester Engineering ink JV for blown film plants click here

INEOS brings clarity to investors amid uncertainty

In a bid to give an insight into company's operations worldwide, world's third biggest chemical group INEOS recently hosted a visit by over 80 institutional investors to its site in Köln, Germany. Thee group's local and regional management teams presented its business activities, operations, markets and competitive environment to add clarity amid the provisional volatility faced by the chemical industry.

For more details on INEOS brings clarity to investors amid uncertainty click here

Chinaplas 2009 Guarantees High Exhibition Quality with EUROMAP's Sustained Support

Chinaplas 2009 (The 23rd International Exhibition on Plastics and Rubber Industries) is highly recognized by the industry as Asia's No.1 and the world's No. 3 plastics and rubber trade fair, followingg K Fair in Germany and NPE in USA.

For more details on Chinaplas 2009 Guarantees High Exhibition Quality with EUROMAP's Sustained Support click here

Norway-based R&D center to study development of CO2-based plastics to further sustainability

Norner Innovation, Norway-based world leading plastics R&D centre has announced to lead a 4-year research project to continue the development of novel plastic materials based on CO2 as a raw material including the process and production technologies.

For more details on Norway-based R&D center to study development of CO2-based plastics to further sustainability click here

Arkema acquires leading PEKK maker to expand in performance materials

In a bid to expand in performance materials, French chemical producer Arkema has acquired the US company Oxford Performance Materials, Inc. (OPM), maker of polyether ketone ketone ultra-high-performannce technical polymers marketed under the brandname OXPEKK®, with sales of the order of US$2 mln.

For more details on Arkema acquires leading PEKK maker to expand in performance materials click here

New polyimide-based high thermal conductive graphite sheet for electronic devices

Japan's Kaneka Corporation has succeeded in developing a graphite sheet based on the high-temperature sintering technology and polymer design technology using polyimides as raw materials that have thee highest thermal conductivity in the world.

For more details on New polyimide-based high thermal conductive graphite sheet for electronic devices click here

Rohm and Haas posts massive YOY decline in Q4 earnings

Specialty chemical maker Rohm and Haas posted a 13% year-on-year decline in Q4 2008 sales clocking US$2,030 mln, led by accelerating market declines that impacted all businesses and regions except Sallt.

For more details on Rohm and Haas posts massive YOY decline in Q4 earnings click here

Sugarcane plays role in development of green polyethylene

Braskem's board of directors recently approved the Green Polyethylene Project, which will produce ethylene and polyethylene from sugarcane-based ethanol. An investment of 500 million reals ($211 milliion) has been allotted for the project, located at the Southern Petrochemical Complex in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

For more details on Sugarcane plays role in development of green polyethylene click here

Fire at Kumho Petrochemical Corp's petrochem plant in Ulsan

A fire broke out last week at South Korea's Kumho Petrochemical Corp's plant at Ulsan. Details of the blaze are not available.

For more details on Fire at Kumho Petrochemical Corp's petrochem plant in Ulsan click here

CPC Corp restarts No. 4 naphtha unit at Kaohsiung on increased ethylene demand

After a three month shutdown, Taiwan's CPC Corp. plans to restart its No. 4 naphtha unit at Kaohsiung. Improved demand for ethylene has led to the restart of the unit that was shutdown for repairs in October.

For more details on CPC Corp restarts No. 4 naphtha unit at Kaohsiung on increased ethylene demand click here

Qapco to sell surplus ethylene to Marubeni in a US$35 mln contract

Qapco plans to dispose of part of its additional ethylene to Japanese trader Marubeni in a US$35 mln deal. The company has been saddled with surplus ethylene after its 200,000 tpa cracker expansion wwas completed in September 2007.

For more details on Qapco to sell surplus ethylene to Marubeni in a US$35 mln contract click here

Borouge inks US$1.39 bln revised contract with Technicas Reunidas for the expansion at Ruwais

Borouge has signed a US$1.39 bln revised contract with Technicas Reunidas for the expansion of its Ruwais petrochemical complex in Abu Dhabi. When completed the expanded Ruwais plant will be able to iincrease its production capacity to 2.

For more details on Borouge inks US$1.39 bln revised contract with Technicas Reunidas for the expansion at Ruwais click here

Sinopec plans to restart Tianjin unit, to postpone startup of new crude and ethylene unit

Sinopec has plans to resume production after a 3 month shutdown, at its 110,000 bpd Tianjin refinery in the month of March. After completion of repair work in November, the oil major continued to exteend the shutdown, as a result of a supply glut caused by deteriorating demand in the domestic fuel market.

For more details on Sinopec plans to restart Tianjin unit, to postpone startup of new crude and ethylene unit click here

Range of opportunities for plastics pipe producer in the MENA region

The MENA region now boasts some of the tallest buildings on the planet and has used the latest materials and technology. The markets provide a wide range of opportunities for plastics pipe producers..

For more details on Range of opportunities for plastics pipe producer in the MENA region click here

Forum for global rotational moulding industry to discuss markets and trends, design and production technology

Rotomoulders are some of the most versatile plastics processors in the marketplace today. This is a low cost method of manufacturing hollow articles in short runs - hence it is used by the Italian deesigner furniture industry to produce chairs that are works of art.

For more details on Forum for global rotational moulding industry to discuss markets and trends, design and production technology click here

Borealis' bench-scale reactors to aid quick, cost-effective new product development

The Borealis' bench-scale reactors at its Innovation headquarters in Linz, Austria is set to play an important role in the company's strategy to accelerate product development. The polypropylene reacttors - characterized by a high-level of automation and safety -in a new laboratory at its Austria-based Innovation headquarters have started operating and yielding results well beyond original expectations, the company release said.

For more details on Borealis' bench-scale reactors to aid quick, cost-effective new product development click here

Oxea to increase DOP price from Feb 9 onwards

Oxea, a global supplier of solvents, polyols and oxo derivatives has announced an increase of list and off-list price by EUR 25/mt on DOP effective February 9th, 2009, or as contracts allow.

For more details on Oxea to increase DOP price from Feb 9 onwards click here

Innovative system for energy-efficient polyolefin pipe extrusion

Cincinnati Extrusion had recently unveiled KryoSys, its completely new system for manufacturing polyolefin pipes which is set to open up new dimensions in pipe extrusion: an option to halve the lengthh of the cooling section and to reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.

For more details on Innovative system for energy-efficient polyolefin pipe extrusion click here

SK Energy's Petrochemical division swings to massive operating loss in Q4

SK Energy, Korea's leading energy and petrochemical companies, posted a Q4 2008 sales revenue of KRW 9.87 trillion, a 20.3% increase from the KRW 8.2 trillion reported a year ago. Operating profit forr the quarter rose by 44.

For more details on SK Energy's Petrochemical division swings to massive operating loss in Q4 click here

Iran sets Assalouyeh-based Jam petrochemical complex underway

Iran has set underway operations at the Assalouyeh-based Jam petrochemical complex - the world's biggest olefin project - which boasts of total ethylene production volume of 1,321,000 tpa, IRNA news aagency reported.

For more details on Iran sets Assalouyeh-based Jam petrochemical complex underway click here

New CPSIA-compliant plastisol and flexible vinyl compounds for toy safety

In an effort to aid manufacturers create safe toys and childcare products, PolyOne Corporation recently announced its portfolio of non-phthalate and CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act)-commpliant plastisol and flexible vinyl compounds.

For more details on New CPSIA-compliant plastisol and flexible vinyl compounds for toy safety click here

Clariant to continue making liquid colors in 3 U.S. plants acquired from Rite Systems

The three U.S. liquid-color plants acquired by Clariant Masterbatches Division from Rite Systems, Inc. last year will continue in operation as the Rite Systems Business Unit of Clariant Masterbatches..

For more details on Clariant to continue making liquid colors in 3 U.S. plants acquired from Rite Systems click here

BASF plans structural changes for efficient integration of Ciba businesses

BASF is laying the foundation for the rapid and efficient integration of Ciba's businesses and initiating structural changes within the organization which includes further development of its Performannce Products segment as of April 1, 2009.

For more details on BASF plans structural changes for efficient integration of Ciba businesses click here

Equistar to reduce 75 employees at its Beaumont-based PD Glycol plant

Equistar Chemicals, LP, announced that it will be reducing its workforce by approximately 75 people at the PD Glycol plant in Beaumont, Texas, following completion of initial phases of post-hurricane remediation at the site.

For more details on Equistar to reduce 75 employees at its Beaumont-based PD Glycol plant click here

LANXESS AG announce FY09 cost-cutting package

German specialty chemical group, LANXESS AG has announced a series of procedural as well as employee-related measures worldwide to cope with decline in demand amidst the deepening economic crisis nameed "CHALLENGE 09" expected to lower its cash outflows by EUR 50 mln over the period 2009/2010.

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PolyOne swings to Q4 loss

PolyOne Corporation has swung to a net loss of US$282.6 mln ($3.07 per share) in Q4 2008 compared with net income of US$7.1 mln ($0.08 per diluted share) in the same period last year due volatility inn raw material, enrgy costs and inventory destocking trends prevalent across customer segments.

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PolyOne swings to Q4 loss

PolyOne Corporation has swung to a net loss of US$282.6 mln ($3.07 per share) in Q4 2008 compared with net income of US$7.1 mln ($0.08 per diluted share) in the same period last year due volatility inn raw material, enrgy costs and inventory destocking trends prevalent across customer segments.

For more details on PolyOne swings to Q4 loss click here

Mitsui Chemicals to terminate EG production at Ichihara Works site; start 1-hexene plant

Japan's Mitsui Chemicals Inc. (MCI) has announced certain operational changes in a bid to improve the value of its ethylene products manufactured at Ichihara Works for competing with ethane-based ethyylene products produced in the Middle East.

For more details on Mitsui Chemicals to terminate EG production at Ichihara Works site; start 1-hexene plant click here

Petrobras' Comperj petrochem complex to be managed by 6 subsidiaries

Petrobras, Brazil's state-owned energy firm has formed six wholly owned subsidiaries for its Rio de Janeiro-based US$8.5 bln worth Comperj petrochemical complex slated to set underway operations by 20012.

For more details on Petrobras' Comperj petrochem complex to be managed by 6 subsidiaries click here

Constar devices proprietary software-based package development process

Constar International Inc., a global supplier of PET containers for F&B markets, has designed i-Design™, a proprietary software-based solution that automates the time-intensive modeling and analysis rrequired when designing new packages.

For more details on Constar devices proprietary software-based package development process click here

Unique Long Fiber Injection process makes molding large-sized lightweight parts possible

Facing a challenge to supply a lightweight personal watercraft (PWC) hull without forgoing its strength, Canada's Camoplast, Inc. put into place a unique innovation -Camoplast Long Fiber (CLF™) technoology - to produce large parts using the long fiber injection (LFI) process.

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Mitsui Chemicals to terminate aniline production plant by March

Japan's Mitsui Chemicals Inc. (MCI) announced its decision to withdraw from aniline sales by September 2009 and terminate its 66,000 tpa production plant at Ichihara Works site (Chiba) by March 2009. The decision can be attributed to the increased production of aniline by MDI related manufacturers has resulted in a decline in market demand.

For more details on Mitsui Chemicals to terminate aniline production plant by March click here

Qatar Petrochemical Company opens fourth Indian office in Ahmedabad

With an effort to fortify its top position as LDPE exporter to India, Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) has recently inaugurated a liaison office in Ahmedabad, Gujarat - its fourth office in India aafter Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai.

For more details on Qatar Petrochemical Company opens fourth Indian office in Ahmedabad click here

New ionomer-based peelable medical forming film promises clean peel, seal integrity

Amcor Flexibles, the flexible packaging division of Australian packaging company, Amcor, have unveiled a CP Film, a peelable ionomer-based forming film utilizing a peelable resin blend to provide seall integrity and a clean peel to uncoated Tyvek®.

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Wittmann Group concentrates its resources in Great Britain

From 01 February 2009 the Wittmann UK and Battenfeld UK subsidiaries which were previously managed separately will concentrate their forces and unite to become the sales and services company "Wittmannn Battenfeld UK" with its head office in Wellingborough.

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DGCX Plastics Futures launch delayed

Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange (DGCX) has postponed the launch of its Plastics Futures contract which was earlier scheduled for February 5, 2009 owing to the response form the key industry particippants.

For more details on DGCX Plastics Futures launch delayed click here

BASF's Styrolux® HS 70 enters first serial production in Europe for shrink film manufacturing

BASF's Styrolux® HS 70, the company's styrene butadiene copolymer (SBC) unveiled at Germany's K 2007 plastics exhibition, has entered into its first serial productions in Europe by AXIAL, a leading IItalian shrink film manufacturer.

For more details on BASF's Styrolux® HS 70 enters first serial production in Europe for shrink film manufacturing click here

Germany's polyvanced unveils round drive belts of thermoplastic

German hose and tubing manufacturer, polyvanced GmbH has included round belts of thermoplastic polyurethane and polyester elastomers into its extensive product range which its says have 'high durabiliity and thus high economic efficiency'.

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Celanese Corp. witness Q4 loss; sales slide 27% YOY

Celanese Corporation, a leading global chemical company, recorded a 27% slide in Q4 2008 net sales posting US$1,286 mln, from the same period last year, due to significantly lower volumes on weak globbal demand and unexpected inventory destocking throughout its end-consumer supply chains.

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Technip bags EUR43 mln contract for the MIDOR refinery in Egypt

Technip, a leader in project management, engineering and construction for the oil & gas industry, has been awarded a EUR43 mln EPC contract by Middle East Oil Refinery (MIDOR) for the expansion of thee delayed coking unit of its refinery in Alexandria, Egypt.

For more details on Technip bags EUR43 mln contract for the MIDOR refinery in Egypt click here

SABIC adds new highly transparent PP copolymer grade to its extrusion blow moulding portfolio

SABIC has recently added a new random PP copolymer grade: SABIC® PP 680K to its polypropylene (PP) portfolio for extrusion blow moulding. The company claims that the new grade is particularly suited ffor applications which demand outstanding transparency, high temperature resistance and a good stiffness and impact balance.

For more details on SABIC adds new highly transparent PP copolymer grade to its extrusion blow moulding portfolio click here

Korea's oil production slides 1.1% during Jan - Nov 2008 period

Korea has witnessed a decline in oil production during 11-month period from January to November 2008, a press release issued by Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC) said. As per the statement, oil prroduction recorded for the period totaled 860.

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Sunoco's Q4 net income mounts YOY; Chemicals segment posts quarterly loss

Sunoco, Inc. recorded net income of US$204 mln ($1.74 per share diluted) for the Q4 2008 compared to a net loss of US$9 mln ($0.08 per share diluted) for same quarter previous year. Excluding special items, the company posted income of US$313 mln ($2.

For more details on Sunoco's Q4 net income mounts YOY; Chemicals segment posts quarterly loss click here

Iran's Kharg Petrochemical Complex clocks increase in petrochem production

Kharg Petrochemical Complex, a major Iranian petrochem producer located in Kharg Island persian gulf, has clocked a total petrochemical production of 1.6 mln tons for the current Iranian year (startinng March 20th 2008) up 5% over the same period of 2007, Mehr News Agency (MNA) reported.

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Mitsubishi Rayon to establish new research laboratory in Yokohama

Japan's Mitsubishi Rayon has recently established new "Yokohama Corporate Research Laboratories", on the premises of the Company's Yokohama Production Center. The new laboratory will involve research into new technologies in the fields of electronic/optical materials and the life sciences, and to develop the seeds of new business ventures.

For more details on Mitsubishi Rayon to establish new research laboratory in Yokohama click here

Borgo Olona acquires Borealis' business and operations in Castellanza, Italy

Borealis has agreed to sell its business and operations in Castellanza, Italy, (AMI - Italy) to Borgo Olona, a group of investors well known in the region. The Castellanza plant, near Milan, has a prooduction capacity of approximately 12,000 tpa of melamine resins and 3,000 tpa of additives.

For more details on Borgo Olona acquires Borealis' business and operations in Castellanza, Italy click here

Dow Chemical's Q4 sales down 23% year on year

The Dow Chemical Company posted sales of US$10.9 bln for the Q4 - 2008, representing a 23% decline compared with the same period last year. The company's net loss for the quarter stood at US$1,552 mlnn against a net income of US$472 mln in the Q4 - 2007.

For more details on Dow Chemical's Q4 sales down 23% year on year click here

LyondellBasell sets up dedicated global business team for healthcare applications

LyondellBasell Industries has become the first polyolefins supplier worldwide to set up a global business team exclusively dedicated to addressing the specialized needs of healthcare applications. Thee new organization, which includes global business management, global technical services, and regional sales teams located in the Americas, Europe, AFMEI and Asia Pacific, is fully operational.

For more details on LyondellBasell sets up dedicated global business team for healthcare applications click here

Thinner than before PrePreg sheets made with Victrex APTIV™ film

Victrex Japan, Inc, a subsidiary of Victrex plc, an innovative leading manufacturer of high performance materials recently announced that Japanese carbon fiber composite material manufacturer, Mitsuyaa has developed a prepreg sheet with thinner layers than a traditional one by using Victrex's APTIV Films.

For more details on Thinner than before PrePreg sheets made with Victrex APTIV™ film click here

Taiwan's FPG plan to outlay US$8.4 bln for polysilicon, naphtha production projects

Taiwan's diversified conglomerate, Formosa Plastics Group (FPG) has reportedly charted a plan to outlay US$8.4 bln to advance development of polysilicon used in solar panels and up the production capaacity of naphtha among other chemicals, Taiwan News reported.

For more details on Taiwan's FPG plan to outlay US$8.4 bln for polysilicon, naphtha production projects click here

DuPont engineering resins meet stringent standards for new automotive lighting components

DuPont's two engineering resins have been used in new automotive lamp socket wire harness designs that are components of auto lighting systems adopted by several North American automakers. These headllamp technologies, which demand high temperature resistance and durability, are already predominant in European and Japanese vehicles.

For more details on DuPont engineering resins meet stringent standards for new automotive lighting components click here

Thailand's PTT shows interest in US$400 mln Philippine petrochem JV

Thailand's public-listed company PTT Public Co. Ltd. (PTTPC) is in discussions with Philippines' JG Summit Holdings Inc., owned by Gokongwei group for a likely petrochemical joint venture agreement, MManila Bulletin reported.

For more details on Thailand's PTT shows interest in US$400 mln Philippine petrochem JV click here

Albemarle clocks decline in Q4 net income; Polymer Additives sales down 36% YOY

Albemarle Corporation posted Q4 - 2008 net income of $13.1 million (14 cents per share), compared to net income of $58.6 million (60 cents per share), for the same quarter of 2007. The quarter resultss include a $38.

For more details on Albemarle clocks decline in Q4 net income; Polymer Additives sales down 36% YOY click here

EuPC urges EU support for Plastics Processors

In a January message to the European plastics conversion industry, Alexandre Dangis, the Managing Director of the industry's Brussels based trade body, EuPC, outlined actions taken by EuPC in a seriess of high-level meetings with the European Commission and the European Investment Bank to secure support for the industry and to highlight the strategic importance of the plastics conversion sector in a balanced manufacturing economy.

For more details on EuPC urges EU support for Plastics Processors click here

DuPont EP creates Center of Excellence in India to aid technology adoption

Recognizing India as one of the fastest growth markets, DuPont Engineering Polymers, a business unit of DuPont, announced the creation of a Center of Excellence in the country to accelerate growth in the region.

For more details on DuPont EP creates Center of Excellence in India to aid technology adoption click here

Glass fibre biomaterial unveiled for medical device implant applications

US-based developer of high performance materials, AGY has announced launch of a glass fibre biomaterial reinforcement targeting the medical device implant market. The newly released HPB™ glass fibre iis suitable for long-term implant applications of over 30 days, and is compatible with wide range of thermoplastic polymers including polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI) and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

For more details on Glass fibre biomaterial unveiled for medical device implant applications click here

BASF Styrenics furthers high color hold solutions for building and construction sector

In an effort to further its highly durable solutions for builders, BASF Styrenics, a division of BASF Group has extended its Luran® S ASA capstock featuring brilliant color hold to include a new and eexciting family of Luran products including Luran® HH-120 and Luran® 378P G7.

For more details on BASF Styrenics furthers high color hold solutions for building and construction sector click here

New VOC-compliant, water resistant thermoplastic binder for arch coatings markets

Philadelphia-based specialty materials company Rohm and Haas has recently launched new thermoplastic, water-resistant binder, Rhoplex™ CS-100 Emulsion targeting the North American architectural coatinngs market.

For more details on New VOC-compliant, water resistant thermoplastic binder for arch coatings markets click here

Bayer MaterialScience to curtail worktime by 6.7% with corresponding pay adjustment

Bayer MaterialScience, a part of Bayer Group will implement a temporary 6.7% reduction in worktime from 37.5 hours to 35 hours per week with corresponding reductions in salaries for non-managerial empployees from Feb 9, 2009 in order to combat the effects of financial crisis.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience to curtail worktime by 6.7% with corresponding pay adjustment click here

BorsodChem likely to defer TDI expansion in Hungary due to slack in demand

BorsodChem Zrt., Central Eastern Europe's advanced plastics raw material producer is currently considering to postpone construction of its 200,000 mtpa TDI plant to be situated at Hungary's Kazincbarccika production site owing to extensive customer destocking activity.

For more details on BorsodChem likely to defer TDI expansion in Hungary due to slack in demand click here

Ticona unveils new low warpage LCP grade for complex designed high speed connectors

Ticona Engineering Polymers recently announced development of a new low warpage Vectra liquid crystal polymer (LCP) grade - E488i - as part of a strategic expansion of its portfolio of V-0 halogen-freee polymers for use in eco-friendly electrical and electronic components.

For more details on Ticona unveils new low warpage LCP grade for complex designed high speed connectors click here

Solarmer to develop plastic solar cells for portable electronics

US-based developer of plastic solar cells, Solarmer Energy Inc. is on track to complete a commercial-grade prototype of plastic solar cells for portable electronic devices that will incorporate technoology invented at the University of Chicago.

For more details on Solarmer to develop plastic solar cells for portable electronics click here

QAPCO inks US$34.6 mln ethylene supply contract with Japan's Marubeni

Qatar's ethylene producer Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) has inked an ethylene supply contract agreement worth US$34.6 mln (QR 126 mln) with Japan's Marubeni Corporation, Gulf Times reported. Thee agreement consolidates QAPCO's position as one of the ethylene supplying forerunners to Asian consumers.

For more details on QAPCO inks US$34.6 mln ethylene supply contract with Japan's Marubeni click here

Valero Energy's 245,000 bpd Texas-based refinery to see 40-day maintenance turnaround

Largest oil refiner in North America, Valero Energy Corp has announced to pull its Texas City based 245,000 bpd refinery in Texas offline due to 40-day planned maintenance on its crude unit and cokingg unit.

For more details on Valero Energy's 245,000 bpd Texas-based refinery to see 40-day maintenance turnaround click here

Saudi ministry postpones Jizan refinery tender round on financial crisis

Owing to the deepening global financial crisis, the ministry of petroleum & mineral resources of Saudi Arabia has deferred the tender round for building a 400,000 bpd Jizan oil refinery on the Red Seaacoast.

For more details on Saudi ministry postpones Jizan refinery tender round on financial crisis click here

ExxonMobil Chemical develops Exxtral performance PO to meet VW bumper fascia specs

ExxonMobil Chemical Exxtral™ performance polypropylene has been specified for the front and rear bumper fasciae of the new globally available VW Golf VI. The company developed Exxtral BMU130 polyolefiin to comply with the stringent performance targets set by Volkswagen (VW).

For more details on ExxonMobil Chemical develops Exxtral performance PO to meet VW bumper fascia specs click here

INEOS NOVA announces up polystyrene prices in Europe

INEOS NOVA recently announced the prices for all Polystyrene products in Europe will be increased by EUR 75/ton effective February 1st - 2009 as the feestocks (Benzene, Ethylene and Styrene) costs aree increasing on both contract and spot bases versus early January 2009.

For more details on INEOS NOVA announces up polystyrene prices in Europe click here

New mixed metal stabilizers for PVC free of ptBBA, nonyl phenol and 2-EHA

American specialty chemicals company Chemtura has recently launched their new, Mark® mixed metal, liquid stabilizer range of additives for PVC that are free of ptBBA (para-tertiarybutyl benzoic acid),, nonyl phenol and 2-EHA (2-ethyl hexanoic acid).

For more details on New mixed metal stabilizers for PVC free of ptBBA, nonyl phenol and 2-EHA click here

NatureWorks LLC inks resin distribution agreement with Colombian companies

Biopolymer manufacturing company NatureWorks LLC has announced a new strategic partnership with Quimicoplasticos and QP Inc to distribute NatureWorks products in Colombia. This agreement signals NaturreWorks' long term commitment to broadening the supply of Ingeo™ biopolymer resin - made using its proprietary technology to process natural plant sugars -for the packaging, foodservice and injection molding industries.

For more details on NatureWorks LLC inks resin distribution agreement with Colombian companies click here

Teijin, Swany to start closed-loop recycling program for used polyester

Japan-based Teijin Fibers Limited and US-based manufacturer of ski gloves, Swany America Corp. have recently announced starting a closed-loop recycling program for used polyester ski gloves. In this pprogram, Swany America will use Teijin Fiber's ECO STORM - a recyclable, waterproof and breathable material made from recycled fibers laminated with a highly durable thin polyester film - for a new glove in its 2009-2010 winter lineup.

For more details on Teijin, Swany to start closed-loop recycling program for used polyester click here

PURAC, AkzoNobel jointly develop additives for bioplastic production

The world leader in field of lactic acid and lactic acid derivatives, PURAC and a leading supplier of paints, coatings and specialty chemicals, AkzoNobel have developed additives through a specific orrganic peroxide technology for the production of Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) - a bioplastic made from biorenewable, carbohydrate-based raw materials.

For more details on PURAC, AkzoNobel jointly develop additives for bioplastic production click here

Nova Chemicals posts US$214 mln net loss for fourth quarter

Nova Chemicals, Canada's leading petrochemical maker posted a Q4 net loss of $214 million ($2.56 loss per share) for 2008 compared to Q3 net income of $98 million ($1.18 per share) and net income of $$126 million ($1.

For more details on Nova Chemicals posts US$214 mln net loss for fourth quarter click here

Study validates lifecycle advantages of plant-derived polymer clamshells over rPET

A first-of-its-kind lifecycle analysis conducted by Germany's Institute for Energy and Environmental Research (IFEU) has found that clamshell packaging made from Ingeo™, a unique plant-derived biopolyymer manufactured by NatureWorks, emits fewer greenhouse gases and uses less energy when compared to clamshells manufactured with petroleum-based rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate).

For more details on Study validates lifecycle advantages of plant-derived polymer clamshells over rPET click here

Teijin to form two groups within High Performance Fibers Business

Teijin Limited recently announced that it will reorganize its High Performance Fibers Business Group into two new groups named Aramid Fibers Business Group and Carbon Fibers Business Group that separaately handle aramid fibers and carbon fibers effective April 1, 2009.

For more details on Teijin to form two groups within High Performance Fibers Business click here

Equipolymers divest Italian entity due to 'disappointing financial results'

The shareholders of Equipolymers, The Dow Chemical Company and Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait, have announced to divest its Italian entity, Equipolymers Srl, due to disappointing financiall results.

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