GAIL increases stake in OPaL to 19%

Gail India Ltd has increased its stake in ONGC Petro additions Limited (OPaL) by 10% to 19%. OPaL is a special purpose vehicle formed for setting up a petrochemical complex at Dahej special economic zzone (SEZ).

For more details on GAIL increases stake in OPaL to 19% click here

Naphtha differentials fall in anticipation of increased supplies from India, Europe

Differentials for open-spec and full range naphtha for the Far East for delivery in June have fallen swiftly, with some traded on discounts on acute anxiety by sellers to unload their naphtha amid exppectations of increased supplies from India and Europe.

For more details on Naphtha differentials fall in anticipation of increased supplies from India, Europe click here

Saudi Aramco to hold July-December term negotiations for naphtha with Asian buyers

Asia's top naphtha term supplier Saudi Aramco plans to hold its July-December term negotiations with Asian buyers in London in the second week of May. Its customers include CPC, Daelim Corp, Hanwha Coorp, Shell, BP, Chevron and PetroChina.

For more details on Saudi Aramco to hold July-December term negotiations for naphtha with Asian buyers click here

New polymer combines high temperature mechanical performance with dimensional stability

Victrex Polymer Solutions, a division of Victrex plc (UK) and leading provider of high performance polyketones, has introduced a new proprietary range of products under the name VICTREX® ST™ polymer. According to the company, the innovative new product line is part of the VICTREX PEEK product family and is designed to perform in the most demanding environments, specifically in applications requiring a combination of high temperature, mechanical performance and dimensional stability.

For more details on New polymer combines high temperature mechanical performance with dimensional stability click here

Perstorp increases prices for TDI

Perstorp (Sweden), leading specialty chemicals producer, have announced to increases prices for toluene diisocyanate (TDI) product range effective May 1st, 2009 or as existing contracts permit. Pricess will be raised EUR 100/mt in Europe and USD 200/mt in export regions.

For more details on Perstorp increases prices for TDI click here

Brückner Maschinenbau to present environmentally-friendly solutions for packaging at NPE 2009

Brückner Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG, a leading film line equipment manufacturer, will exhibit innovative solutions for an energy-efficient, flexible and environmentally friendly film production at NPEE 2009 (South Hall, Booth S21045).

For more details on Brückner Maschinenbau to present environmentally-friendly solutions for packaging at NPE 2009 click here

Celanese posts 38% dip in Q1 net sales; records net loss of US$20 mln

Celanese Corporation (USA), a leading global chemical company, posted a decline of 38% in Q1 net sales to US$1,146 mln from the same period in 2008 due to dipping volumes on continued weak global demaand and lower pricing for acetyl products.

For more details on Celanese posts 38% dip in Q1 net sales; records net loss of US$20 mln click here

EQUATE President & CEO retained as GPCA Vice Chairman

EQUATE President & CEO Hamad Al-Terkait was retained for a second term as the Vice Chairman of Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association's Board of Directors. During its recent Board elections, GPPCA renewed Al-Terkait's appointment as Vice Chairman for a term of three years, while Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) CEO Mohammad Al-Mady continued as Chairman of the Board of Directors with the CEO of Abu Dhabi Polymers (Borouge) Abdulaziz Al-Hajri as Treasurer.

For more details on EQUATE President & CEO retained as GPCA Vice Chairman click here

LyondellBasell's PP copolymer certified by German automotive industry for collapsible boxes

LyondellBasell Industries announced that its heterophasic polypropylene copolymer, Moplen EP340M, has become one of the first polypropylene products to receive certification from the Association of thhe German Automotive Industry (VDA) for the production of collapsible pallet boxes used in automotive manufacturing.

For more details on LyondellBasell's PP copolymer certified by German automotive industry for collapsible boxes click here

Sinopec Corp. achieves profits in all segmnets in Q1-09

China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec Corp.) has announced its unaudited results for the first quarter of the year which ended on 31 March 2009. In Q1-09, the company achieved profits in alll the segments.

For more details on Sinopec Corp. achieves profits in all segmnets in Q1-09 click here

Kuwait, China to exchange views on joint refinery location

Kuwait hopes to reach a final agreement with China on a long-delayed project to build a US$9 bln refinery and petrochemical venture. The country is expecting a "candid exchange of views" with Chinese officials on the project that could be located in China's southern Guangdong province.

For more details on Kuwait, China to exchange views on joint refinery location click here

Private equity fund managed by Kuwait-based firm sells stake in Reliance Petroleum

One of the top ten investors in Reliance Petroleum has hived off its stake in the company. Private equity fund managed by Kuwait-based firm Global Capital Management- namely Global Opportunistic Fundd II, has sold its stake in Reliance Petroleum.

For more details on Private equity fund managed by Kuwait-based firm sells stake in Reliance Petroleum click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 27, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil rose to end the week of April 27, 2009 above US$51/barrel. Light sweet crude oil for June delivery increased to US$51.55, mainly on neews of encouraging earnings from Ford (F), American Express and Microsoft that aroused hopes of improved energy demand, propped by a weakening US dollar that supports crude's hedge value.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 27, 2009 click here

Qatar steps up plastics recycling initiative

Qatar is all geared to set up a plastics waste recycling center considering a major development between the leading think-tanks in the nation. A MoU has been inked between Qatar Science and Technologyy Park (QSTP) and Qatar University (QU) to establish a polymer centre which will focus on recycling plastic waste and producing eco-friendly plastic materials for domestic industrial purpose.

For more details on Qatar steps up plastics recycling initiative click here

Plastic replaces aluminum in first high-power LED application for heat control

Based on a joint development with DSM, leading energy efficient lighting solutions provider Philips has launched MASTER LED MR16 retrofit lamp which is the first high-power LED application to replace aluminum cover with a thermally conductive plastic - Stanyl® high performance polyamide (PA) - for heat control.

For more details on Plastic replaces aluminum in first high-power LED application for heat control click here

Merquinsa to showcase its eco-friendly TPU innovations at NPE 2009

Merquinsa (Spain), a producer of specialty thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), will showcase its eco-friendly and plant-derived thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), PEARLTHANE® ECO range, at NPE 2009 (Chiccago, June 22-26, booth #131043).

For more details on Merquinsa to showcase its eco-friendly TPU innovations at NPE 2009 click here

ONGC Mittal Energy get regulatory go-ahead for refinery in Nigeria

India's ONGC Mittal Energy Ltd (OMEL), a joint venture between ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL) and Mittal Investments Sarl, has received a regulatory go-ahead from Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)) to establish 180,000 bpd downstream refinery in the West African nation.

For more details on ONGC Mittal Energy get regulatory go-ahead for refinery in Nigeria click here

DuPont unveils new series of PVB encapsulant sheets for thin film solar cells

DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions (DPVS) unveiled new DuPont™ PV5200 Series photovoltaic (PV) encapsulant sheets, based on polyvinyl butyral (PVB) polymer technology. As per the company, the new PVB phottovoltaic encapsulant sheets offer physical and processing performance levels proven in laminated glass manufacturing, with additional features designed to meet the needs of thin-film solar power generation.

For more details on DuPont unveils new series of PVB encapsulant sheets for thin film solar cells click here

Global Thermoplastics integrated with Fortis Plastics

Monomoy Capital Partners, L.P., a New York private equity fund has acquired Global Thermoplastics, L.P. (Texas, USA), a manufacturer of engineered compounds for plastic molding applications. Monomoy hhas integrated Global into Fortis Plastics, LLC, the growing plastic injection molding and extrusion platform that Monomoy formed in late 2008.

For more details on Global Thermoplastics integrated with Fortis Plastics click here

Sekisui Chemical to acquire PVOH resin business of Celanese

Celanese Corporation (USA), a leading global chemical company, entered into an agreement to sell its polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) business to Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd. (Japan) for approximately US$173 mlln, excluding the value of accounts receivable and payable retained by Celanese.

For more details on Sekisui Chemical to acquire PVOH resin business of Celanese click here

Oil prices dip to US$50 on concerns of a global swine flu pandemic

Oil prices dipped to US$50 as fears spread globally of the swine flu pandemic that could give clobber an already battered world economy. The swine flu has already spread from the confines of Mexico too United States, Canada, and a few European countries, it could affect air travel and further slow economies.

For more details on Oil prices dip to US$50 on concerns of a global swine flu pandemic click here

Sinopec’s planned maintenance shutdown at ethylene unit at Qilu

Sinopec has planned a one month long maintenance shut down its 800,000 tpa ethylene unit at Qilu. This is its first repair and maintenance shutdown after 54 months of continuous operation, with the neext one about 5 years away.

For more details on Sinopec’s planned maintenance shutdown at ethylene unit at Qilu click here

Qatar to become major petrochem R&D hub within next ten years

In the coming 5-10 years, Qatar plans to become a major research and development hub to develop modern petrochemical products technology. The R&D centre, to be developed by experts from Qatar Universiity, is planned to become self reliant in advancing studies for the petrochemical industry that are offered in the West.

For more details on Qatar to become major petrochem R&D hub within next ten years click here

Dow announces polyethylene price increase

With effect from 1 May 2009, Dow Europe plans to increase price by EUR 50/ton of all grades of its low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and high-density polyethylenne (HDPE) across the European, Middle Eastern, African and Indian regions.

For more details on Dow announces polyethylene price increase click here

GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers patents universal polyamide overmolding TPE

GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers, a PolyOne business, recently announced the issue of a patent for the universal overmolding TPE platform for polyamide (PA). The patented technology is based on the VERSAFFLEX™ chemistry and delivers consistent bonding and performance with any type of PA, regardless of the supplier, chemistry or additives, using either insert or two-shot molding under a broad range of processing conditions.

For more details on GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers patents universal polyamide overmolding TPE click here

Sunoco temporarily pulls off FCC, crude unit at Philadelphia refinery

Sunoco, Inc. (USA), one of the leading manufacturers of petrochemical products, recently announced temporary closure of one fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) unit and a crude unit in response to a dim reefining market outlook throughout 2009.

For more details on Sunoco temporarily pulls off FCC, crude unit at Philadelphia refinery click here

Celanese to hike prices for Ethyl Acetate, n-Butyl Acetate, Acetic Anhydride in Asia

Celanese Corporation (USA), a leading global chemical company, has announced to increase list and off-list selling prices for all grades of ethyl acetate, n-butyl acetate and acetic anhydride, effectiive May 1, 2009, or as contracts allow.

For more details on Celanese to hike prices for Ethyl Acetate, n-Butyl Acetate, Acetic Anhydride in Asia click here

Swiss company Priamus establishes presence in China

Injection molding solutions provider Priamus System Technologies AG (Switzerland) now has a presence in China through a newly opened branch office in Kunshan. The office of Priamus-Uniplast Technologyy (Kushan) Co.

For more details on Swiss company Priamus establishes presence in China click here

DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers, Distrupol further UK and Ireland collaboration

DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers (P&IP) has named Distrupol as its sole distributor in UK and Ireland for its range of specialty ethylene copolymers products dedicated to cosmetic and industriall markets.

For more details on DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers, Distrupol further UK and Ireland collaboration click here

Industry-first ICC approval for closed cell spray PU foam insulation with a spray-applied thermal coating

BaySystems™, the umbrella brand for the global polyurethane systems operations of Bayer MaterialScience, announced its Bayseal™ CC (closed-cell) spray polyurethane foam has received an International CCode Council (ICC) Evaluation Report ESR-2072.

For more details on Industry-first ICC approval for closed cell spray PU foam insulation with a spray-applied thermal coating click here

Braskem initiates work on world's first sugarcane-based plastic project

Brazil's leading petrochemical maker Braskem recently initiated construction works for the Green Polyethylene Project in the Petrochemical Center of Triunfo, Rio Grande do Sul. The unit will be the woorld's first to use sugarcane ethanol in the commercial scale production of ethlylene and polyethylene from 100% renewable source.

For more details on Braskem initiates work on world's first sugarcane-based plastic project click here

CNPC to join hands with Shaanxi Yanchang Petroleum for ethylene project

China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) plans to join hands with Shaanxi Yanchang Petroleum (Group) Co. Ltd. to build an ethylene plant at an investment outlay of RMB 23 bln. To be located in Yan''an City, Shaanxi Province it is planned with a capacity to produce 1 mln tpa ethylene.

For more details on CNPC to join hands with Shaanxi Yanchang Petroleum for ethylene project click here

Oil ends the week above US$50

On Friday, light sweet crude oil for June delivery increased by almost 2 dollars to US$51.55, mainly on news of encouraging earnings from Ford (F) that aroused hopes of improved energy demand, proppedd by a weakening US dollar that supports crude's hedge value.

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LyondellBasell adds Luxembourg-based holding company to Chapter 11

LyondellBasell, the world's third-largest petrochemical company, has added a Luxembourg-based holding company to its Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to hold off claims against it from financial and UUS trade creditors.

For more details on LyondellBasell adds Luxembourg-based holding company to Chapter 11 click here

Capacity increase at BASF’s Texas site for polypropylene catalysts

In a bid to meet the growing global demand for existing and new polypropylene catalysts, BASF Catalysts has successfully achieved significant debottlenecking and expansion at its Texas facility. The iincreased capacity is specifically targeted to produce its breakthrough LYNX polypropylene catalyst at its production facility in Pasadena, Texas.

For more details on Capacity increase at BASF’s Texas site for polypropylene catalysts click here

Restart of Idemitsu’s naphtha cracker deferred on minor problem

A minor problem during restart has delayed the process at Idemitsu Kosan’s 374,000 tpa Chiba naphtha. The Chiba cracker has been shut since last week March for maintenance and repair work and was origginally planned to reopen last week.

For more details on Restart of Idemitsu’s naphtha cracker deferred on minor problem click here

Borealis starts additional black HDPE capacity at Austrian facility; bolsters supply to CEE pipe makers

Anticipating rapid infrastructural development in the Central and Eastern Europe, Borealis recently announced the start-up of additional capacity for black high density polyethylene (HDPE) for drinkinng water and gas pipes at its Schwechat facility in Austria.

For more details on Borealis starts additional black HDPE capacity at Austrian facility; bolsters supply to CEE pipe makers click here

Recycled polyester tire cords first in Europe

Teijin Fibers Limited (Japan) announced that its chemically recycled polyester ECO CIRCLE FIBERS* are now being used in the cords of Toyo Tire & Rubber's PROXES Ne tires. Toyo Tire Europe GmbH introduuced these tires to the European market beginning in April 2009.

For more details on Recycled polyester tire cords first in Europe click here

Dow Europe to raise price for polyethylene resins

Dow Europe GmbH announced to increase prices by EUR 50 per metric ton for all grades of its low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPEE) resins effective May 1, 2009 or as contracts allow.

For more details on Dow Europe to raise price for polyethylene resins click here

Turkey's Petkim and Iran's NPC reach agreement on petrochem plant in Iran

Turkish Petrochemical Holding Corp. (Petkim) has reportedly reached an agreement with Iran's National Petrochemical Company (NPC) to construct a petrochemical plant for production of methanol and polyyethylene in Iran.

For more details on Turkey's Petkim and Iran's NPC reach agreement on petrochem plant in Iran click here

LyondellBasell joins US affiliate in Chapter 11 filing

LyondellBasell's holding company incorporated in Luxembourg -- LyondellBasell Industries AF S.C.A. -- has been voluntarily added to its US affiliate Lyondell Chemical Company's Chapter 11 filing underr U.

For more details on LyondellBasell joins US affiliate in Chapter 11 filing click here

Hexion continues to streamline production with demand

Hexion Specialty Chemicals (USA), one of the world's leading producers of epoxy resins, announced its intention to shift production of certain epoxy products within its global manufacturing operationss due to reduced demand driven due to difficult market conditions.

For more details on Hexion continues to streamline production with demand click here

Middle Eastern plastics processors riding high: AMI's latest report

Despite the economic downturn around the world many plastics convertors in the Middle East are still facing strong domestic demand growth and are now investigating the potential for internationalisingg their businesses.

For more details on Middle Eastern plastics processors riding high: AMI's latest report click here

Braskem, Cromex collaborate to develop additives for green PE

Braskem, a leading petrochemical company, and Cromex, Brazil's leader in colour concentrates market, announced the first partnership to develop additives for Braskem's sugarcane ethanol based green poolyethylene.

For more details on Braskem, Cromex collaborate to develop additives for green PE click here

Germany-based leading moldmaking & hot runner specialist expands in USA

männer, a Germany headquartered leader in high-precision moldmaking and valve gate hot runner technology, had recently opened production facility in Lawrenceville/Atlanta (USA). Until now, männer's maanufacturing operations have been concentrated exclusively in Germany and Switzerland.

For more details on Germany-based leading moldmaking & hot runner specialist expands in USA click here

New joint research project to increase the lifetime and stability of organic photovoltaics

Cytec Industries Inc. (USA), a global leader in specialty chemicals and materials, and IMEC (Belgium), Europe's leading independent nanoelectronics research institute, recently announced collaborationn to develop a commercially viable technology for organic photovoltaic devices with enhanced stability and extended lifetime.

For more details on New joint research project to increase the lifetime and stability of organic photovoltaics click here

Nova Chemicals posts US$123 mln Q1 net loss; awaits regulatory go-ahead for Abu Dhabi acquisition

Canadian plastics producer Nova Chemicals posted a net loss of US$123 mln ($1.48 loss per share) in first quarter of 2009 compared to a net profit of US$52 mln ($0.63 per share) for the same period laast year.

For more details on Nova Chemicals posts US$123 mln Q1 net loss; awaits regulatory go-ahead for Abu Dhabi acquisition click here

KRAIBURG TPE ensures safety with high-purity paraffinic white oil in TPE production

KRAIBURG TPE, Germany-headquartered manufacturer of thermoplastic elastomers, recently announced using only high-purity medical paraffinic white oil to make up TPEs intended for medical and consumer aapplications.

For more details on KRAIBURG TPE ensures safety with high-purity paraffinic white oil in TPE production click here

Eastman Chemical Q1 net earnings dip on low sales volume

Plastics and fibers manufacturer Eastman Chemical Co. recorded net earnings at US$2 mln for Q1 - 2009 as against US$133 mln for the same period in 2008. The results included a restructuring charge of US$26 mln for the previously announced reduction in force of approximately 300 people.

For more details on Eastman Chemical Q1 net earnings dip on low sales volume click here

Oil prices steady around US$50 despite rising US crude inventories

Despite news of surging US crude inventories signalling feeble energy demand in USA, crude oil prices moved up to steady at US$ 49.15 /barrel, while Brent North Sea crude for delivery in June stood aat US$49.

For more details on Oil prices steady around US$50 despite rising US crude inventories click here

BPF’s recommendations accepted in 2009 budget

The recent lobbying work by the British Plastic Federations has been accepted in the 2009 Budget. The Budget incorporates BPF's recommendation that CCA's based on electricity only be introduced. This gives BPF's attempts to secure a CCA for plastics processing a second chance and the BPF is now in a good position to resume discussions with DECC and the EU.

For more details on BPF’s recommendations accepted in 2009 budget click here

Punj Lloyd to contest arbitrator decision regarding termination of contract by SABIC

SCL, a wholly owned UK subsidiary of Punj Lloyd had been awarded a contract in 2006 to design, build, construct and pre-commission a low-density polyethylene plant in the UK by SABIC UK Petrochemicalss Ltd.

For more details on Punj Lloyd to contest arbitrator decision regarding termination of contract by SABIC click here

Japan to invest US$8 bln in petrochemical projects in Venezuela

Japan and Venezuela have inked agreements to cooperate in 12 projects. Japan will invest US$33.5 bln over the next five years in Venezuela's petrochemical and oil and gas sectors. This will be allocatted as follows: US$8 bln in petrochemical projects, US$1.

For more details on Japan to invest US$8 bln in petrochemical projects in Venezuela click here

RIL posts second consecutive decline in quarterly profits

Reliance Industries (RIL) has posted its second consecutive decline in quarterly profits. Q4 net profit fell 9.3% to Rs 3,546 crore, while sales dropped 24% to Rs 28,362 crore. This can be attributedd to a fall in product prices and lower volumes on account of a temporary shutdown at a unit.

For more details on RIL posts second consecutive decline in quarterly profits click here

ExxonMobil develops ultra-low aromatic fluids using proprietary catalyst technology

ExxonMobil Chemical has applied proprietary catalyst hydrogenation technology to introduce its Ultra-Low Aromatic (ULA) product family. The technology enables the production of ULA fluids that comply with the most stringent environmental and regulatory requirements.

For more details on ExxonMobil develops ultra-low aromatic fluids using proprietary catalyst technology click here

LyondellBasell’s Bayport polyolefins plant achieves safety record

LyondellBasell’s polyolefins plant at Bayport has achieved a remarkable safety record of seven years and 5 mln hours without a lost-time incident for employees, resident and non-resident contractors aand visitors.

For more details on LyondellBasell’s Bayport polyolefins plant achieves safety record click here

Conductive polymer-based bipolar plates unveiled for use in high temperature PEM fuel cells

UK-based fuel cell materials and components company, Bac2 have unveiled high temperature bipolar plates made from its patented ElectroPhen™ conductive polymer for use in polymer electrolyte membrane ((PEM) fuel cells.

For more details on Conductive polymer-based bipolar plates unveiled for use in high temperature PEM fuel cells click here

Significant improvement in chemical and heat resistance of polyurea prepolymers possible: Huntsman study

A new prepolymer development programme, conducted by Huntsman Polyurethanes, has shown that it is technically possible to significantly improve the chemical and heat resistance of polyurea spray technnologies.

For more details on Significant improvement in chemical and heat resistance of polyurea prepolymers possible: Huntsman study click here

New high performance resins outperform metals in domestic boiler components

SABIC Innovative Plastics offers high-performance Noryl, Ultem and Cycoloy resins to replace traditional metals such as copper and brass used in residential wall-hung condensing boiler components, succh as condenser housings and manifolds.

For more details on New high performance resins outperform metals in domestic boiler components click here

Bayer's new German PU dispersions facility to cater to cosmetics, medical market

Bayer MaterialScience AG has invested EUR 2.3 mln for a new waterborne PU dispersions (PUD) production line for the cosmetics and medical segments at Dormagen CHEMPARK (Germany). The new line forms a part of the PUD plant at the same location and will produce special, top-quality polyurethane dispersions of maximum purity, which will be sold to the cosmetics industry under the name Baycusan® C.

For more details on Bayer's new German PU dispersions facility to cater to cosmetics, medical market click here

RTP Company's Singapore facility awarded Sony Green Partner supplier certification

RTP Company, global custom engineered thermoplastic compounder, has received certification as a Sony Green Partner supplier at its Singapore production facility. The status recognizes sourcing of enviironmentally conforming feedstocks and utilizing environmentally responsible manufacturing processes, as required by the Green Partner program, in the production of thermoplastic compounds by RTP Company.

For more details on RTP Company's Singapore facility awarded Sony Green Partner supplier certification click here

Dimeric TDI for aqueous PU dispersions with improved physical properties

Rhein Chemie (Germany), a wholly owned subsidiary of LANXESS, has demonstrated advantages of using solid, dimeric toluene diisocyanate (TDI) to formulate storage-stable, one-component polyurethane adhhesive systems with improved physical properties.

For more details on Dimeric TDI for aqueous PU dispersions with improved physical properties click here

Medical Grade Polymers 2009 - International conference on polymer materials & markets for medical devices

The medical market for polymers is expanding. With an aging global population the medical device industry is growing and research is advancing at a rapid pace to provide a high quality of life. At thee third international conference on Medical Grade Polymers organized by Applied Market Information LLC (September 15-16, 2009, The Hilton, Philadelphia), Len Czuba will outline the current demands and future trends in this industry.

For more details on Medical Grade Polymers 2009 - International conference on polymer materials & markets for medical devices click here

Supreme Petrochem to license NOVA Chemicals' proprietary EPS cup bead technology

NOVA Chemicals (International) S.A. and Supreme Petrochem Ltd. (SPL) have inked a license agreement for SPL to license NOVA Chemicals' proprietary expandable polystyrene (EPS) cup bead technology. Thee arrangement also includes a supply agreement between the firms.

For more details on Supreme Petrochem to license NOVA Chemicals' proprietary EPS cup bead technology click here

Corrective action order outlines Texas Petrochemicals to spend US$20 mln

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has issued its first-ever agreed corrective action order outlining actions to be taken by a regulated company to further reduce air emissions.
Texas Pettrochemicals, LLC has committed to invest $20 million in additional pollution controls to enhance the environmental performance at its plant near the Houston Ship Channel.

For more details on Corrective action order outlines Texas Petrochemicals to spend US$20 mln click here

PKN Orlen’s Q1-09 earnings hit by decline in oil price, petrochemical margins

Poland’s largest oil refiner PKN Orlen is anticipating a fall in Q1-09 earnings by a decline in the value of oil inventories and narrower margins on petrochemicals.

A decline in the value of oil stored in Orlen’s tanks cut earnings by as much as 300 mln zloty (US$88 mln) in the first quarter, compared with a 326 million-zloty gain in the comparable period of 2008.

For more details on PKN Orlen’s Q1-09 earnings hit by decline in oil price, petrochemical margins click here

Operating rates at full at Sumitomo’s Chiba naphtha cracker

Sumitomo Chemicals Co has boosted operating rates at its Chiba naphtha cracker to almost 100%. As petrochemical demand has been reviving in the continent, the 380,000 tpa cracker is operartional at fuull throttle, up by 10% from start of the month.

For more details on Operating rates at full at Sumitomo’s Chiba naphtha cracker click here

Run rates reduced at Sabic’s Teesside naphtha cracker

Declining margins, affected by deteriorating demand in the face of a global economic meltdown, has caused Saudi Basic Industries Corp.’s naphtha cracker at its Teesside site in Northeast England that began operations this month to run at reduced rates.

For more details on Run rates reduced at Sabic’s Teesside naphtha cracker click here

Unipetrol to post EBIT loss in Q1-09, betters performance of Q4-08

Czech oil refiner Unipetrol is expected to report an operating (EBIT) loss in Q1-09 although it will be smaller than the loss recorded by the company in Q4-08. The loss can be attributed to price of ccrude oil and its derivatives, the weaker Czech crown against the US dollar and a narrowing Brent-Ural price differential.

For more details on Unipetrol to post EBIT loss in Q1-09, betters performance of Q4-08 click here

Naphtha and benzene steady in Asia

Crude oil has moved up in Asia as the market awaits weekly inventory data in the US. Asian naphtha prices opened steady on Wednesday according to ICIS pricing. H1- June price indications were pegged aat US$443-446/ton CFR (cost and freight) Japan, H2-June prices at US$440.

For more details on Naphtha and benzene steady in Asia click here

Crude oil up a few notches prior to release of US inventory data

New York's main futures contract, light sweet crude for June, rose to US$48.8 while Brent North Sea crude for delivery in June rose to US$50.10. Crude oil prices have moved up as market players look fforward to latest weekly inventory data, published by the US Department of Energy every Wednesday at 1430 GMT.

For more details on Crude oil up a few notches prior to release of US inventory data click here

New modified PEEK offers comparable performance at up to 30% cost reduction

Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, has unveiled a new line of modified PEEK grades by the name AvaSpire® AV-700 series which it says will fill the cost/performance gap between high-performance crystallinee polymers (PPS, LCP, and high-temperature nylon) and PEEK, an ultra-performance crystalline polymer.

For more details on New modified PEEK offers comparable performance at up to 30% cost reduction click here

NOVA, Supreme Petrochem ink EPS process technology license agreement

Canadian plastics company NOVA Chemicals (International) S.A. and India's Supreme Petrochem Ltd. (SPL) recently executed a license agreement to license NOVA Chemicals' proprietary expandable polystyreene (EPS) cup bead technology.

For more details on NOVA, Supreme Petrochem ink EPS process technology license agreement click here

New cost-effective technology to produce TPU-based synthetic leather for automotive interiors

Bradford Industries (USA), a leading industrial polymer coating company has partnered with Bayer MaterialScience LLC to develop a solution to make car interiors more luxurious. Bradford has created a synthetic leather technology (TPU-coated fabric) using Bayer's thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials for wide range of soft-touch interior applications such as instrument panels, center console lids, headrests, and many others.

For more details on New cost-effective technology to produce TPU-based synthetic leather for automotive interiors click here

Fully recyclable, ultra-thin PET hot-fill bottles used for packaging vitamin-enhanced waters

Graham Packaging, a leading US supplier of plastic containers for hot-fill applications, has teamed up with TalkingRain Beverage Company (Washington, US) to advance sustainability in PET hot-fill botttles.

For more details on Fully recyclable, ultra-thin PET hot-fill bottles used for packaging vitamin-enhanced waters click here

Borealis to exhibit customer-focused investments at Wire Russia 2009

Borealis, the world's leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, will present customer-focused innovations and investments at Wire Russia 2009 (May 12 - 15, 2009). The region'ss wire and cable customers can look forward to this year's start-up of Borealis' new 350,000 tpa high pressure low density polyethylene (LDPE) plant in Stenungsund, Sweden, and modernisation and streamlining of associated facilities at the plant.

For more details on Borealis to exhibit customer-focused investments at Wire Russia 2009 click here

New LFT compounds combine performance, aesthetics in metal replacement applications

US-based PolyOne Corporation globally unveiled its OnForce™ LFT long-fiber thermoplastic compounds for applications involving metal replacement and structural elements. According to the company, the ccompounds are optimized for surface finish, stiffness and impact strength and provide high-rated performance and better aesthetics than similar products.

For more details on New LFT compounds combine performance, aesthetics in metal replacement applications click here

SABIC's first quarter turns red

SABIC, one of the world's largest petrochemicals manufacturers, witnessed a Q1 net loss amounting SAR 0.974 bln (approximately US$0.254 bln) for period ending March 31, 2009 as against net income of SSAR 6.

For more details on SABIC's first quarter turns red click here

Earlier than planned restart at CPC’s Kaohsiung naptha cracker

Taiwan’s state-run CPC Corp. plans to restart the No.3 naphtha cracker in Kaohsiung earlier than planned to meet a the deficient supply caused by improving demand in the region. The restart of the 2300,000 tpa ethylene cracker that was caused by deteriorating demand on April 1, is planned by May 10.

For more details on Earlier than planned restart at CPC’s Kaohsiung naptha cracker click here

Green process to convert propane to propylene

The US Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory has invented a greener process to turn propane into industrially necessary propylene, eliminating the expense and the environmental hazards. BBy using platinum clusters, a method has been devised to catalyze propane, not only in a more environmentally friendly way, but also using far less energy than previous methods.

For more details on Green process to convert propane to propylene click here

Ex-GM of Mitsui pleads guilty to helping facilitate the scam

Takayoshi Wada, 46, admitted that he has helped his then-colleague at Singapore-based Mitsui Oil (Asia), Noriyuki Yamazaki, report inaccurate prices of naphtha which helped disguise huge losses that YYamazaki, had run up in his trading.

For more details on Ex-GM of Mitsui pleads guilty to helping facilitate the scam click here

Supreme Petrochem quarterly net profits rise

Supreme Petrochem’s net profits for the quarter ending March 2009 for FY08-09 rose to Rs 34.19 crores, increasing by 462.34% as compared to Rs 6.08 crore in the same quarter last year. However, sales dipped 12.

For more details on Supreme Petrochem quarterly net profits rise click here

1600 job cuts result from SABIC’s restructuring plans

Saudi Arabia Basic Industries Corp (SABIC) has posted a Q1-net loss of 974 mln riyals (US$259.3 mln). Company’s performance has been affected by deteriorating petrochem demand as a result of the globaal economic downturn.

For more details on 1600 job cuts result from SABIC’s restructuring plans click here

Idemitsu Kosan to restart 374,000 tpa naphtha cracker at Chiba

Japanese petrochemical major- Idemitsu Kosan, plans to restart its 374,000 tpa naphtha cracker at Chiba that has been shut since last week of March. The company plans to increase run rates at the plannt to about 85% on improved demand primarily due to a recovery in the country’s automotive industry.

For more details on Idemitsu Kosan to restart 374,000 tpa naphtha cracker at Chiba click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 20, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Light sweet crude for May delivery ended the week of April 20, 2009, with a dip in New York prices to US$48.2 on the back of the strengtheningg dollar, weakening stock markets and listless US energy demand.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 20, 2009 click here

Uponor continues cost-cutting measures in Europe

Uponor, a leading supplier of plumbing and heating systems, has continued to introduce new rationalisation and cost reduction measures, in response to continuous low demand
in the building and constrruction sector.

For more details on Uponor continues cost-cutting measures in Europe click here

Frito-Lay to roll out 100% PLA packaging for its SunChips Brand by 2010

PepsiCo's convenient foods business unit, Frito-Lay announced that in 2010 it will introduce the first fully compostable packaging made from plant-based materials for its popular line of multigrain snnacks, SunChips.

For more details on Frito-Lay to roll out 100% PLA packaging for its SunChips Brand by 2010 click here

New SBC formulations combine lower VOC and cost savings for contact adhesives

Leading styrenic block copolymer producer Kraton Polymers LLC has unveiled a series of new formulations -- Kraton D and Kraton G grades -- designed to support lower Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) reqquirements and reduce costs associated with contact adhesives.

For more details on New SBC formulations combine lower VOC and cost savings for contact adhesives click here

UK's WRAP to study using recycled PP in food grade packaging

UK-based Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) has recently initiated a study to test the process of recycling polypropylene for use in food grade packaging and evaluate its commercial viability. WRAP has commissioned Axion Consulting, in partnership with Greenstar WES, Fraunhofer IVV and Pira Consulting for carrying out the project.

For more details on UK's WRAP to study using recycled PP in food grade packaging click here

Optimized heat-stabilized vinyl powder compounds unveiled for fluidized bed manufacturing efficiency

US-based PolyOne Corporation, a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions, unveiled a new family of Geon™ vinyl powder compounds that offer an expanded processing windoow for better fluidized bed manufacturing cost performance and efficiency.

For more details on Optimized heat-stabilized vinyl powder compounds unveiled for fluidized bed manufacturing efficiency click here

BASF to divest Chinese catalysts site

BASF has signed a definitive agreement to sell its catalysts manufacturing facility in Nanjing (China) to German specialty company Süd-Chemie AG. The facility is independent from BASF's main Verbund ssite in Nanjing and produces more than 30 different types of syngas catalysts, those required for manufacturing ammonia and methanol.

For more details on BASF to divest Chinese catalysts site click here

Vietnam criticizes anti dumping lawsuit filed by US bagmakers

Vietnam has strongly criticized a lawsuit filed by two US bagmakers asking for anti-dumping duties against plastic bags imported from Vietnam. The country has been fully implementing its commitments aand duties as well as observing the WTO regulations, including those on subsidy.

For more details on Vietnam criticizes anti dumping lawsuit filed by US bagmakers click here

Petkim inks petrochemicals MOU with Iran’s NPC

Petkim- Turkey’s chemicals major has inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran's NPC International to build a petrochemicals plant in Iran. Capacity at the plnat is estimated to comprise 1.665 mln tpa of methanol and 300,000 tons of polyethylene.

For more details on Petkim inks petrochemicals MOU with Iran’s NPC click here

Oil prices dip on expected increase in inventories in USA

Crude oil for May dipped by over one dollar to US$49 on the Nymex, while June futures dipped to US$51.65 a barrel. Brent crude oil for June settlement fell to US$52.4 on London’s ICE Futures Europe exxchange.

For more details on Oil prices dip on expected increase in inventories in USA click here

Philippine based Petron Corp restarts 140,000 tpa propylene plant

Petron Corporation, the Philippine based petrochem producer has restarted the Petro Fluidized Catalytic Cracking Unit (PetroFCC) and Propylene Recovery Unit (PRU) at its Limay petrochemical plant. Thee plant has been shut since December 2008 for a scheduled maintenance turnaround of the refinery.

For more details on Philippine based Petron Corp restarts 140,000 tpa propylene plant click here

RIL gives up EOU status of Jamnagar refinery

Reliance Industries Ltd.’s 660,000 bpd Jamnagar refinery is to operate as a non-EOU refinery to cater to increasing domestic demand of petroleum products. RIL has surrendered the status of export-orieented unit (EOU) in a bid to sell fuel in the domestic market, as well as to help the company save on taxes as it would have to pay higher taxes if it were to continue with the EOU status.

For more details on RIL gives up EOU status of Jamnagar refinery click here

PetroRabigh JV partners to evaluate Rabigh Phase II expansion

Saudi Aramco has inked the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan's Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd to conduct a feasibility study for the development of the Rabigh Phase II Project as a major expanssion of the recently commissioned Rabigh I Project by PetroRabigh.

For more details on PetroRabigh JV partners to evaluate Rabigh Phase II expansion click here

DSM's Akulon PA6 resin selected for automotive feasibility studies

DSM Engineering Plastics recently announced that Akulon PA6 resin has been selected by various OEMs and Tiers for various applications and automotive feasibility studies for oil sumps and oil pans usee in under-the-hood.

For more details on DSM's Akulon PA6 resin selected for automotive feasibility studies click here

bpi.films invests GBP 10 mln to up capacity by 40%

bpi.films, UK's leading manufacturer of pallet stretch, shrink and converter films, has invested GBP 10 mln (US$ 14.68 mln) to augment production capacity by 40% at its Leominster factory (Herefordshiire, UK).

For more details on bpi.films invests GBP 10 mln to up capacity by 40% click here

IPEX unveils advanced PVCO pressure pipes for potable water, sewer systems

IPEX, a leading North American manufacturer of thermoplastic piping systems for diverse markets, recently launched Bionax(TM) PVCO Pressure Pipe following a multi-million dollar investment in advancedd extrusion technology.

For more details on IPEX unveils advanced PVCO pressure pipes for potable water, sewer systems click here

SABIC-IP to expand LGFPP resins offering to North American automotive industry

Defying current downturn in North American automobile market, SABIC Innovative Plastics recently agreed to acquire the RheMax product line from RheTech, Inc. (Michigan, USA), a leading supplier of pollyolefin-based compounds to North American auto market.

For more details on SABIC-IP to expand LGFPP resins offering to North American automotive industry click here

KraussMaffei to exhibit all-electric, energy saving AX series at NPE 2009

KraussMaffei, Germany-based leading injection moulding machine maker, is all set to exhibit its all-electric AX series which it says will reduce manufacturing costs in standard applications at NPE 20009 (Chicago, USA).

For more details on KraussMaffei to exhibit all-electric, energy saving AX series at NPE 2009 click here

China XD Plastics re-awarded world-recognized QMS certification

Harbin Xinda Macromolecule Material Co., Ltd. (Xinda), a wholly owned subsidiary of China XD Plastics Company Ltd., the mainland's largest developer of modified plastics for automotive use, has been rre-awarded the certification of ISO/TS16949:2002 standards by Quality Austria after its re-examination process.

For more details on China XD Plastics re-awarded world-recognized QMS certification click here

Two European PU technology experts announce partnership

Two Europe-based experts in polyurethane processing, Hennecke GmbH (Germany) and Customer Polymer Solutions GmbH (Austria) have inked a cooperation contract to deliver custom-made solutions for elastoomer processors.

For more details on Two European PU technology experts announce partnership click here

Two European PU technology experts announce partnership

Two Europe-based experts in polyurethane processing, Hennecke GmbH (Germany) and Customer Polymer Solutions GmbH (Austria) have inked a cooperation contract to deliver custom-made solutions for elastoomer processors.

For more details on Two European PU technology experts announce partnership click here

BASF expands capacity for PP catalysts at Texas facility

Despite a slump in polyolefin demand, BASF Catalysts has completed a significant debottlenecking and expansion project for its current and new polypropylene catalysts. The increased capacity is speciffically targeted for producing the company's breakthrough LYNX® polypropylene catalyst at its production facility in Pasadena, Texas (USA).

For more details on BASF expands capacity for PP catalysts at Texas facility click here

New self-crosslinking styrene butadiene polymers for nonwovens and specialty markets unveiled

US-based OMNOVA Solutions recently unveiled its new line of OMNABOND™ self-crosslinking styrene butadiene polymers for the nonwovens, coatings and construction markets. According to the company, OMNABBOND polymers offer a number of advantages over standard styrene butadiene emulsions, including improved wet and dry tensile properties, filler acceptance, color fastness, caustic resistance, and adhesion to both synthetic and natural fibers.

For more details on New self-crosslinking styrene butadiene polymers for nonwovens and specialty markets unveiled click here

Arkema Inc. unveils cost-effective tin stabilizers for R-PVC pipe applications

Arkema Inc. has recently unveiled two improved grades to its existing line of Thermolite® tin stabilizers which it says brings down cost for variety of pipe applications and give formulators a single stabilizer suitable for most extrusions of rigid PVC pipe.

For more details on Arkema Inc. unveils cost-effective tin stabilizers for R-PVC pipe applications click here

Ashland Performance Materials announces new logistics services agreement for Europe

Ashland Performance Materials, a commercial unit of US-based specialty chemical company Ashland Inc., has entered into a logistics services agreement with De Rijke in the Netherlands to centralize thee management of company's third-party carriers and warehouses in Europe with De Rijke.

For more details on Ashland Performance Materials announces new logistics services agreement for Europe click here

China XD Plastics, Harbin Research join forces for modified PP research

Harbin Xinda Macromolecule Material Research Institute (China) has announced to join forces with Harbin Institute of Technology (China) on the pre-research of pre-foamed modified polypropylene (PP) annd have successfully completed a small trial testing.

For more details on China XD Plastics, Harbin Research join forces for modified PP research click here

German researchers develop furniture varnish based on vegetable oils, sugars

Fraunhofer researchers at the Institute for Wood Research, Wilhelm-Klauditz-Institut WKI (Braunschweig, Germany) have developed alternative furniture varnishes based on vegetable oils and sugars whichh is said to provide identical properties to the currently available petrochem-based varnishes and is economical to procduce.

For more details on German researchers develop furniture varnish based on vegetable oils, sugars click here

Sunoco agrees to sell 85,000 bpd refinery to Holly Corporation

Sunoco, Inc., one of the leading US-based petrochemical manufacturers, has agreed to sell its 85,000 bpd refinery in Tulsa (Oklahoma, USA) to Holly Corporation for US$65 mln. The transaction will alsoo include inventory attributable to the refinery which will be valued at market prices at closing.

For more details on Sunoco agrees to sell 85,000 bpd refinery to Holly Corporation click here

INEOS Phenol to shelve cumene production at 550,000 ton Texas plant

Marred by plummeting demand in the Phenol and Acetone market, INEOS Phenol has provisionally shelve cumene production at its 550,000 ton Port Arthur plant in Texas (USA) from 15th April 2009. INEOS iss currently consulting with its employees and their representatives as the decision will result in the temporary reduction of workforce by 15 employees.

For more details on INEOS Phenol to shelve cumene production at 550,000 ton Texas plant click here

Cereplast to supply bioplastics to US-based high quality tool maker

US-based manufacturer of proprietary bio-based plastics, Cereplast, Inc., will supply Warner Manufacturing Company (USA) with bio-plastic resin for its new biodegradable Painting Accessories. Warner MManufacturing Company specializes in designing high quality tools for professional trade people and do-it-yourselfers since 1927.

For more details on Cereplast to supply bioplastics to US-based high quality tool maker click here

American Green Group inks LOI to acquire Ecosafe Premium Foam

American Green Group, Inc. announced that it's wholly owned subsidiary, Eco-Built Systems LLC, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to acquire Ecosafe Premium Foam®. Ecosafe Premium Foam® foam-in-placee insulation is an innovative, ultra-light weight, foam insulation which is an environmentally safe made from nitrogen based Tripolymers.

For more details on American Green Group inks LOI to acquire Ecosafe Premium Foam click here

BASF, Ciba employees now a joint team: BASF Chairman

Subsequent to BASF's US$5.1 bln acquisition of plastics additive leader Ciba, the chemical giant arranged welcome events at Ciba sites in Europe, Asia and North and South America for smooth integratioon of employees into BASF family.

For more details on BASF, Ciba employees now a joint team: BASF Chairman click here

Ashland to up resin and gelcoat prices w.e.f. May

Ashland Performance Materials, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc., is increasing the price of all unsaturated polyester resins and gelcoats sold in Europe and Asia Pacific regions by 3 to 4% effective May 1, or at the earliest possible time thereafter depending on individual customer contracts.

For more details on Ashland to up resin and gelcoat prices w.e.f. May click here

Japanese consortium to begin trials at a gas-to-liquid plant using new technology

A Japanese consortium of oil and engineering firms is to commence trial output at a gas-to-liquid plant using new technology that can directly process natural gas containing carbon dioxide gas into naaphtha, kerosene and gas oil.

For more details on Japanese consortium to begin trials at a gas-to-liquid plant using new technology click here

LyondellBasell to pay out over US$700 mln to settle credit default swaps

Sellers of protection on the debt of petrochemical company LyondellBasell Industries will pay out over US$700 mln to settle credit default swaps after an auction on Thursday. Outstanding CDS on LyondeellBasell amounted to a total net notional value of US$715 mln as of March 27, according to the Depository Trust & Clearing Corp, which registers most CDS contracts.

For more details on LyondellBasell to pay out over US$700 mln to settle credit default swaps click here

Saudi Kayan posts loss in Q1-09

Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Co has posted a Q1 loss of 6.3 mln riyals (US$1.7 mln) because of operational costs. The company had posted a profit of 95.6 mln riyals last year.



For more details on Saudi Kayan posts loss in Q1-09 click here

Fujia Dahua deliberates import of 1 mln tpa of naphtha as feedstock for aromatics plant

Fujia Dahua Petrochemical is mulling imports of 500,000 to 1 mln tpa of heavy naphtha to feed its 1.15 mln tpa aromatics plant in H2 of this year. Total capacity at the plant comprises of 700,000 tpa paraxylene, 350,000 tpa benzene and 100,000 tpa orthoxylene.

For more details on Fujia Dahua deliberates import of 1 mln tpa of naphtha as feedstock for aromatics plant click here

Composite Park to be developed in France

Supported by Total Petrochemicals, a Composite Park is set to get developed in France over 70 hectares. The unique park to be developed near Porcelette is to provide a dedicated site to produce reinfoorced plastics, and is to find support from universities, skills and training organisation and regional government organisations.

For more details on Composite Park to be developed in France click here

Europe’s fears about Gulf petrochemical industries holds up trade talks

The trade talks between GCC and EU (European Union), in progress for nearly two decades, were suspended in December. European fears over the strength of the Gulf petrochemicals sector and petrochemicaal regulations in the region along with a clause in the agreement of EU’s insistence on democracy seem to be the major stumbling block.

For more details on Europe’s fears about Gulf petrochemical industries holds up trade talks click here

Solvay Indupa to produce green PVC from end of 2010

Solvay Indupa plans to start producing 100,000 tpa of "green" polyvinyl chloride (PVC) from the end of 2010 in Santo André, São Paulo state. The company, a Brazilian subsidiary of Belgium-based chemiccal group Solvay, is currently constructing a sugarcane ethanol-based 60000 tpa ethylene plant, which will be used as feedstock in the PVC production chain.

For more details on Solvay Indupa to produce green PVC from end of 2010 click here

First vinyl window system which meets toughest Level E hurricane certifications

Shwinco Industries (USA), a manufacturer of custom vinyl door and windows, and Saflex, a unit of Solutia Inc. (USA), have joined forces to develop the first vinyl window system for coastal regions whiich meet the toughest hurricane certification: Level E.

For more details on First vinyl window system which meets toughest Level E hurricane certifications click here

New PVC decking comes with exclusive 10-year stain and fade resistance warranty

Fiberon®, a leading North American manufacturer of composite and PVC decking, railing and fencing products, recently introduced industry's first exclusive 10-year stain and fade resistance warranty coovering its new Horizon™ composite and Sensibuilt™ PVC decking products.

For more details on New PVC decking comes with exclusive 10-year stain and fade resistance warranty click here

Deceuninck streamlines Belgian extrusion operations

Deceuninck, a Belgium-based leading manufacturer and designer of PVC systems, has announced to concentrate all extrusion operations in Belgium at its site in Hooglede-Gits by third quarter of this yeaar.

For more details on Deceuninck streamlines Belgian extrusion operations click here

New glass-filled nylon with non-halogen FR system provides higher tracking index than halogenated compounds

Chem Polymer, a unit of Teknor Apex Company has recently unveiled a new 25% glass fiber-reinforced nylon 6 compound that it says provides injection molders with an alternative to halogenated flame rettardant (FR) formulations while meeting stringent requirements for flame retardance.

For more details on New glass-filled nylon with non-halogen FR system provides higher tracking index than halogenated compounds click here

New high performance TP liners extend tubular life in aggressive downhole environments

Victrex plc, UK-based manufacturer of high-performance materials, announced that it's VICTREX® PEEK™ polymer has been selected by Western Falcon (Texas, USA), a major manufacturer of tubular linings ffor downhole applications, to design a new high-performance seamless thermoplastic liner.

For more details on New high performance TP liners extend tubular life in aggressive downhole environments click here

Cincinnati Extrusion to focus on growing wood plastic composites market

Leading extrusion systems supplier Cincinnati Extrusion exhibit its latest developments in the field of Wood-Plastic Composites at Ligna (May 18 to May 22), the leading fair for wood processing industtry in Hanover, Germany.

For more details on Cincinnati Extrusion to focus on growing wood plastic composites market click here

Swiss plastic composites component producer to close down due to steep decline in sales

Feintool, Switzerland-based machine technology and systems supplier, recently announced to close its 'Plastic/Metal Components' segment, the smallest in the company, by October this year citing decliining volumes led by economic downturn.

For more details on Swiss plastic composites component producer to close down due to steep decline in sales click here

Evonik, IBEDA cooperate in flame-spray process for wear-resistant PEEK coatings

Evonik Industries, Germany-based producer of high performance polymers, has recently unveiled its highly wear resistance VESTAKEEP® PEEK powder coatings to coat metals. The company recently concluded an agreement with IBEDA Sicherheitsgeräte und Gastechnik GmbH & Co.

For more details on Evonik, IBEDA cooperate in flame-spray process for wear-resistant PEEK coatings click here

Dow Hyperlast to extend Diprane and Hyperlast PU elastomers product lines

Dow Hyperlast is expanding the DIPRANE™ and HYPERLAST™ polyurethane elastomers product lines with the addition of VORASTAR™ TDI-based prepolymers from Dow Polyurethanes, a business unit of The Dow Cheemical Company.

For more details on Dow Hyperlast to extend Diprane and Hyperlast PU elastomers product lines click here

Japan to outlay US$8 bln for petrochem projects in Venezuela

Japan has bolstered ties with oil-rich Latin American nation of Venezuela in areas related to oil & gas and chemical projects, after a recent meeting between leaders of two nations in Japan. The Asiann country will outlay US$8 bln in petrochemical projects while investing another US$1.

For more details on Japan to outlay US$8 bln for petrochem projects in Venezuela click here

Saudi Aramco’s capacity expansion project at Ras Tanura and petrochem JV with Dow delayed

Saudi Aramco has delayed its capacity expansion plans at Ras Tanura that was planned to hike capacity by 400,000 bpd at an investment outlay of US$8 billion. This is part of Saudi Aramco’s plans to drrive down costs that was initiated earlier with the delay of two other 400,000 bpd refinery projects at Jubail and Yanbu.

For more details on Saudi Aramco’s capacity expansion project at Ras Tanura and petrochem JV with Dow delayed click here

Borouge to commission study for Borouge-3 project planned to expand polyolefin capacity

Abu Dhabi Polymers Company (Borouge) - a joint venture between the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, or ADNOC, and Borealis, plans to commission an engineering and design study for Borouge-3 project to boost total production capacity to 4.

For more details on Borouge to commission study for Borouge-3 project planned to expand polyolefin capacity click here

3 petrochem majors commence operations as Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) registered members

Three South East Asian petrochemicals majors- PTT Polymer Marketing DMCC, Titan DMCC and SCG Plastics Company DMCC have started operations from Dubai as Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) DMCC-regiistered members.

For more details on 3 petrochem majors commence operations as Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) registered members click here

Sasol and Tata mull investment in 80000 bpd CTL plant in India

Petrochemicals group Sasol and India's Tata are mulling investing in a multibillion-dollar coal-to-liquid (CTL) plant in India to produce up to 80000 bpd of liquid fuel. The companies are launching a pre feasibility study on the viability of the project, which could cost US$5-7 bln.

For more details on Sasol and Tata mull investment in 80000 bpd CTL plant in India click here

Lanxess to be fined for cleanup violations at Orange plant after Hurricane Ike

Lanxess Corporation is to be fined US$3375 for "serious" violations made while crews cleared Hurricane Ike damage in 2008, when its plant on FM 1006 in Orange was flooded with swamp water. The Orange Lanxess facility manufactures polybutadiene rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, and hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber.

For more details on Lanxess to be fined for cleanup violations at Orange plant after Hurricane Ike click here

Shareholders of Nova Chemicals approve sale to IPIC

Shareholders of Nova Chemicals Corp. have approved the sale of the company to International Petroleum Investment Co (IPIC), an investment arm of the government of UAE. At US$6/common share, the deal iis valued at US$2.

For more details on Shareholders of Nova Chemicals approve sale to IPIC click here

Royal Dutch Shell Plc combines with Chinese state oil firms to bid for oil projects in Iraq

China plans to make its second major business enterprise in Iraq as Royal Dutch Shell Plc has teamed up with Chinese state oil firms to jointly bid for oil projects in Iraq. The first project was of sstate oil company CNPC's $3 bln project to develop the al-Ahdab field, Iraq's first major oil deal with a foreign firm since the fall of Saddam Hussein.

For more details on Royal Dutch Shell Plc combines with Chinese state oil firms to bid for oil projects in Iraq click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 13, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices witnessed a very marginal dip of 20-30 cents a barrel in the week of April 13, 2009. Benchmark crude for May delivery that droopped at the beginning of the week, spiked by almost 2 dollars to US$51.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 13, 2009 click here

Dow to partner with Italian PU sole maker to pursue sustainable footwear project

Dow Polyurethane (PU) Systems, will collaborate with the Italian producer of polyurethane shoe soles Mondial Suole to test newly developed elastomeric polyurethane material with renewable content for use in the footwear industry.

For more details on Dow to partner with Italian PU sole maker to pursue sustainable footwear project click here

BioSolar's BioBacksheet to be exhibited at International Green Energy EXPO Korea 2009

BioSolar, Inc., US-based developer of bio-based solar cell components, announced that it will exhibit its BioBacksheet™ solar cell technology at a leading renewable energy exhibition in Korea. The commpany's bio-based backsheet for PV solar panels will be presented at the International Green Energy Expo, and event organized by EXCO, The Korea Energy News, expected to draw more than 30,000 visitors from over 17 countries April 8-10 at the Daegu Exhibition & Convention Center in Korea.

For more details on BioSolar's BioBacksheet to be exhibited at International Green Energy EXPO Korea 2009 click here

Northern Technologies International Corporation bags contract from State of Minnesota for compostable bags

Northern Technologies International Corporation (NTIC), developer and marketer of proprietary environmentally beneficial products, announced that it has been selected by State of Minnesota, Departmentt of Administration, Materials Management Division to provide the state agencies with Natur-Tec(r) Compostable Plastic Bags.

For more details on Northern Technologies International Corporation bags contract from State of Minnesota for compostable bags click here

March crude imports for Taiwan plummet by a third year-on-year

Hampered by a weak downstream demand and plant shut downs, imports of crude oil into Taiwan plummeted by one-third in March 2009 as opposed to the same month last year, the Ministry of Finance indicatted recently.

For more details on March crude imports for Taiwan plummet by a third year-on-year click here

PolyOne unveils compounds for solar panel cables & jacketing applications

In response to the growing market for photovoltaic installations worldwide, US-based PolyOne Corporation has added compounds for cable insulation and jacketing applications used in solar panels. PolyOOne's ECCOH™ compounds can be used for making protective cable insulation for photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity.

For more details on PolyOne unveils compounds for solar panel cables & jacketing applications click here

Unpaid leaves to save cost, preserve employees at DuPont

In a bid to save capital while preserving employees, US-headquartered DuPont has reportedly requested its salaried workforce worldwide to take unpaid leaves owing to tough market conditions, The News Journal reported.

For more details on Unpaid leaves to save cost, preserve employees at DuPont click here

South East Asian petrochem majors sets operations from Dubai underway: DMCC

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) announced that three major petrochemical companies from South East Asia have begun operations from Dubai as DMCC-registered members. PTT Polymer Marketing DMCC, TTitan DMCC and SCG Plastics Company Ltd.

For more details on South East Asian petrochem majors sets operations from Dubai underway: DMCC click here

France to house first-of-its-kind 'Composite Park'

The regional and national public-sector actors in France have joined forces with the universities, training centers and large corporate organizations to set u a new 'Composite Park' - a technological park dedicated to composite and plastics processing activities in Eastern Moselle region of France.

For more details on France to house first-of-its-kind 'Composite Park' click here

First application of polyethylene in a nuclear safety related application

The Dow Chemical Company's bimodal polyethylene resin has been chosen by AmerenUE's Callaway Nuclear Power Plant located near Fulton, Missouri in its buried essential service water (ESW) pipe system. The company's DOW CONTINUUM™ DGDA-2492 BK Bimodal Polyethylene Resin replaced the previously used carbon steel for the purpose.

For more details on First application of polyethylene in a nuclear safety related application click here

New PU dispersion combines environmental advantages with superior physical properties

Bayer MaterialScience recently unveiled the new DISPERCOLL® U XP 2699 polyurethane dispersion which it says combine the environmental advantages of a water-based sealant with the superior physical prooperties of a polyurethane resin in a new, high-performance water-based sealant.

For more details on New PU dispersion combines environmental advantages with superior physical properties click here

Petrobras to evaluate setting oil refinery in Iraq

Petroleo Brasileiro SA (Petrobras), Brazil's state owned oil major, reportedly received a proposal from Iraqi government to set up a oil refinery in the country in its effort to step-up its oil refiniing capacity.

For more details on Petrobras to evaluate setting oil refinery in Iraq click here

PetroVietnam bags US$20 mln finance to build polypropylene workshop for Dung Quat refinery

Vietnam's state-owned oil and gas major, Petrovietnam has inked a credit contract worth US$20 mln with Military Joint Stock Commercial Bank (MB) to construct a polypropylene workshop for the nation's sole Dung Quat Oil Refinery.

For more details on PetroVietnam bags US$20 mln finance to build polypropylene workshop for Dung Quat refinery click here

PPG to develop larger cabin-window assemblies for Gulfstream G650 jet

US-based PPG Industries' aerospace transparencies business has been awarded a long-term contract by Gulfstream Aerospace to design, develop, test and manufacture cockpit windows and window assemblies for the Gulfstream G650 business jet, which offers the longest range, fastest speed, largest cabin and most advanced cockpit in the Gulfstream fleet.

For more details on PPG to develop larger cabin-window assemblies for Gulfstream G650 jet click here

Mitsubishi plans to restructure: to exit Polystyrene and PVC businesses

Hit by deteriorating demand amid overcapacity, Mitsubishi Chemical Corp plans to exit the polystyrene and PVC businesses, possibly triggering reorganization within the industry. The company is likely to hive off its 27.

For more details on Mitsubishi plans to restructure: to exit Polystyrene and PVC businesses click here

IRPC estimates Q1 results to be at par with last year on recovery in petrochemical prices

Thailand's largest petrochemical company, IRPC expects its Q1 results to stay in last year's range, mainly due to the recovery in petrochemical prices. Prices have been propped by increasing demand inn the region, particularly from China, triggered by China's stimulus measures.

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Petronas urged to develop Sabah as the next oil, gas and petrochemical industrial hub

State Chief Minister has urged national oil company Petronas will develop Sabah as the next oil, gas and petrochemical industrial hub in the region. Sabah is a Malaysian state located on the northern portion of the island of Borneo.

For more details on Petronas urged to develop Sabah as the next oil, gas and petrochemical industrial hub click here

PTT revives plan to consolidate 4 listed refining and petrochemical units

In a bid to take advantage of favourable timing due to cheap stock prices and poor sentiments, PTT has revived a plan to consolidate four listed refining and petrochemical units- Thai Oil, PTT Aromatiics and Refining (PTTAR), PTT Chemical and IRPC, for better efficiency.

For more details on PTT revives plan to consolidate 4 listed refining and petrochemical units click here

ONGC plans to borrow US$4 bln to fund projects

As a global recession and slowing inflation lower the cost of credit, India’s largest energy explorer Oil & Natural Gas Corp. (ONGC) plans to borrow Rs 200 bln (US$4 bln) to fund projects. The loans iinclude Rs 88 bln to be raised in the next couple of months for a planned chemical venture in Gujarat.

For more details on ONGC plans to borrow US$4 bln to fund projects click here

Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical Co comes onstream with producing ethylene and propylene production

Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical Co., jointly built in Saudi Arabia by Sumitomo Chemical Co. and Saudi Arabian Oil Co., has begun ethylene and propylene production. Built at an investment outlay of UUS$10 bln, the plant has capacity to produce 1.

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Rising stock market, upbeat earnings reports suggest increase in spending, oil rises

Benchmark crude for May delivery spiked by almost 2 dollars to US$51.2 on the Nymex, while Brent prices spiked to US$53 on the ICE Futures exchange. This sharp rise can be attributed to rising stock mmarkets and buoyant earnings reports that suggest Americans may begin spending more.

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Damp markets, weak demand outlook delay expansion of BASF’s Nanjing ethylene cracker

Damp market conditions and weak demand outlook for petrochemicals amid a global economic meltdown has compelled BASF to suspend capacity expansion of its ethylene cracker in Nanjing, China. Not yet abbandoned, the investment in the expansion plan from current 600,000 tpa to 750,000 tpa has been deferred under the current market conditions and expansion will be reconsidered upon improvement in the markets.

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A. Schulman forms strategic alliance to commercialize newly developed flavored compounds

A. Schulman, Inc., US-based manufacturer of high performances compounds and resins, announced the formation of an exclusive strategic alliance with the New York-based company Add the Flavor, LLC. The alliance will focus on commercializing Polyflav™, a product supplied as a masterbatch or additive aimed at plastic applications requiring custom taste and scent enhancements.

For more details on A. Schulman forms strategic alliance to commercialize newly developed flavored compounds click here

Milacron steps up services and presence in Mexico

Milacron Inc. recently announced opening of its Queretaro, Mexico operation as the Milacron Plastics Technology Center to offer local and expanded services to its customers in Mexico. The service centter clubs together Milacron's Uniloy, Extrusion, Ferromatik, U.

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Eleven BKG pelletizing systems supplied to Indian customer at one stroke

German underwater pelletizing systems provider, BKG Bruckmann & Kreyenborg GmbH, recently said it has supplied eleven lines to an Indian customer. The crucial factor for this order was the efficiency and the price of the systems.

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Citadel Plastics Holdings acquires Meridian's Brazilian operations to extend BMC capabilities

The Brazilian operations of Meridian Automotive Systems, Inc. have been acquired by Citadel Plastics Holdings, Inc. Citadel is a portfolio company of Wind Point Partners, a Chicago-based private equitty investment firm.

For more details on Citadel Plastics Holdings acquires Meridian's Brazilian operations to extend BMC capabilities click here

Syndiotactic polystyrene resin from Idemitsu Kosan gets go-ahead for drinking water use

Japan-based Idemitsu Kosan recently announced that Xarec WA, a syndiotactic polystyrene (SPS) crystalline polymer has been give a go-ahead for use in hot and cold water applications. The SPS resin, whhich contains about 20% - 40% glass fiber reinforcement, has been manufactured for plastic products used for drinking water.

For more details on Syndiotactic polystyrene resin from Idemitsu Kosan gets go-ahead for drinking water use click here

KRAIBURG TPE compounds boost performance, economy of heavy duty plugs

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds from Germany's KRAIBURG TPE have found application in a heavy duty CEE-compliant PowerTOP Xtra connector by Mennekes Company (New Jersey, USA). The three phase AC plug which guarantees safe and secure handling at machinery of a major construction site or welding generators in dry dock, incorporates TPEs in the THERMOLAST® K product group to ensure safety and performance of the plug.

For more details on KRAIBURG TPE compounds boost performance, economy of heavy duty plugs click here

First PP matching the glossy aesthetics of ABS unveiled

Borealis has unveiled the first polypropylene (PP) for the appliance industry that delivers the high gloss benefits of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and meets manufacturers' demands for increaased productivity.

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Petro Rabigh sets 1.3 mln tpa ethane cracker underway

Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical Company (Petro Rabigh) has set its Ethane Cracker Unit underway which is one of the core facilities of its mega Refining and Petrochemical Complex newly constructed aat Rabigh (Saudi Arabia).

For more details on Petro Rabigh sets 1.3 mln tpa ethane cracker underway click here

Dow to increase price of polycarbonate, PC compounds and PC blends in North and Latin America

The Dow Chemical Company recently announced US$0.07/lb. price increase across North and Latin America for all polycarbonates, polycarbonate compounds and polycarbonate blends, effective May 1, 2009, oor as contract terms allow.

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New high performance formaldehyde and APEO free elastomeric wall coatings

Dow Coatings, part of the Advanced Materials Division of The Dow Chemical Company and the premier supplier of paint and coatings solutions, has unveiled a new environmentally advanced, high performancce elastomeric wall coating for the Asia-Pacfic region - Elastene™ 2468.

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Wittmann Battenfeld to exhibit turnkey solution for the packaging industry at Brasilplast

Wittmann Battenfeld, is set to exhibit its new, powerful, high-speed TM Xpress series at Brasilplast (São Paulo, May 4 - 8) for the first time along with an innovative inmold labeling application for the packaging industry.

For more details on Wittmann Battenfeld to exhibit turnkey solution for the packaging industry at Brasilplast click here

Invista permanently shuts Canadian PET plant

Invista, an integrated producer of polymers and fibers, has reportedly closed its PET plant in Millhaven (Ontario, Canada) permanently following a four month period of stalled production. The plant waas shut down due to drastic decline in demand leading to PET glut in the North American which will impact 100 employees.

For more details on Invista permanently shuts Canadian PET plant click here

LyondellBasell bags Frost & Sullivan's Customer Value Enhancement Award

LyondellBasell Industries was recently awarded the 2008 Frost & Sullivan Global Plastics in Medical Devices Customer Value Enhancement Award. The company has been known for promoting the use of polyollefins in the medical device industry with its highly popular Purell brand.

For more details on LyondellBasell bags Frost & Sullivan's Customer Value Enhancement Award click here

New extruded shapes made of ultra high performance polymers for large precision-machined parts

Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, recently announced that Advanced Polymer Technologies, LLC, (APT) is offering large stock shapes of Spire® Ultra Polymers. The new stock shapes give designers the abilitty to create very large machined parts while holding tight tolerances.

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Cost and fuel-saving next-generation air cargo net features Dyneema® PE fiber

Germany-based Hoffmann Air Cargo Equipment (ACE) GmbH together with DSM Dyneema have developed a new, third generation lightweight air cargo net that is one of the first worldwide to achieve a total wweight of below 8 kilograms (kg) as opposed to polyesters cargo nets which typically weigh between 15-18 kg.

For more details on Cost and fuel-saving next-generation air cargo net features Dyneema® PE fiber click here

Innovative fibreglass dry chopped strand for superior PP and PE reinforcement

3B, a leading manufacturer of fibreglass products for the reinforcement of thermoplastics and thermosets, announced an innovative new chopped strand product aimed at helping OEMs, compounders and moullders expand the application of reinforced polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) compounds.

For more details on Innovative fibreglass dry chopped strand for superior PP and PE reinforcement click here

Tripartite agreement inked for Gas to Liquids project in Uzbekistan

South Africa's chemical giant Sasol, Uzbekneftegaz (the National Oil and Gas Company of Uzbekistan), with PETRONAS (Malaysia), have announced signing Heads of Agreement for the development and implemeentation of a Gas to Liquids (GTL) project, as well as a Memorandum of Understanding for mutual cooperation in the oil and gas industry, in the Republic of Uzbekistan.

For more details on Tripartite agreement inked for Gas to Liquids project in Uzbekistan click here

Saudi Arabia's Alujain Corporation sets Yanbu-based polypropylene complex underway

National Petrochemical Industrial Company (NATPET), subsidiary of Alujain Corporation (Saudi Arabia), has started operating the Propylene and Polypropylene Complex in Yanbu Industrial City. The Compleex is running at 73% of its capacity and 22,500 tons of high quality polypropylene was produced as per specifications.

For more details on Saudi Arabia's Alujain Corporation sets Yanbu-based polypropylene complex underway click here

New pre-filled non-woven glass veil provides raw material, production benefits to cushion vinyl flooring industry

Owens Corning, global composite solutions and building materials leader recently announced the development of AdVeil™ non-woven glass veil incorporating a new technology that brings cost and productioon benefits to the cushion vinyl (CV) flooring industry.

For more details on New pre-filled non-woven glass veil provides raw material, production benefits to cushion vinyl flooring industry click here

EQUATE curtails production rates on feedstock dearth

EQUATE Petrochemical Company, a major polyethylene and ethylene glycol producing joint venture in which Dow Chemical Company (US) and Petrochemical Industries Company (Kuwait) holds majority stake, reecently informed that it had curtailed production rates at its Shuaiba Industrial Area complex.

For more details on EQUATE curtails production rates on feedstock dearth click here

Amalgamation of Reliance Petroleum Ltd with RIL approved by shareholders and creditors

Shareholders and creditors of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) have approved the scheme of amalgamation of Reliance Petroleum Limited (RPL) with RIL.
As per the merger terms, RPL shareholders willl get one RIL share for every 16 shares held in RPL.

For more details on Amalgamation of Reliance Petroleum Ltd with RIL approved by shareholders and creditors click here

Pipe demand to reach 11 billion feet in USA in year 2013

US pipe demand is forecast to grow 2% pa to 11 billion feet in 2013 as per a report by reportlinker.com. Gains will reflect a rebounding construction sector, the growing obsolescence of sewer and draiinage systems, and needs to upgrade municipal water systems.

For more details on Pipe demand to reach 11 billion feet in USA in year 2013 click here

A Schulman to market taste and scent enhancement compounds through newly formed strategic alliance

A. Schulman Inc. has formed an exclusive strategic alliance with New York-based company Add the Flavor LLC., to focus on commercializing Polyflav™, a masterbatch/additive aimed at plastic applicationss requiring custom taste and scent enhancements.

For more details on A Schulman to market taste and scent enhancement compounds through newly formed strategic alliance click here

LyondellBasell plans to cut 17% workforce, reduce expenses

In a bid to offset the current sales volume and margin weakness, LyondellBasell plans to cut 3,000 jobs, about 17% of its workers and reduce expenses by an additional US$500 mln by 2010. LyondellBaselll is the world's third-largest petrochemical company whose US operations are under bankruptcy protection.

For more details on LyondellBasell plans to cut 17% workforce, reduce expenses click here

Bangladesh to gets its first petrochem plant

Yarn maker Malek Spinning Mills Limited plans to set up Bangladesh's first petrochemical plant to produce polyester chips. To be built at an investment outlay of US$804 mln, the plant will have capaciity to produce 300 tons of polyester chips per day.

For more details on Bangladesh to gets its first petrochem plant click here

Reliance Industries sells 55,000 tons of naphtha to Shell

Reliance Industries has sold 55,000 tons of naphtha for May 6-8 lifting from Sikka to Shell. The cargo was sold approximately US$28/ton above Middle East quotes FOB basis - at premiums similar to thosse for April cargo.

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Several Styrene plants expected to raise capacity, restart in Asia

Styrene Monomer demand in Asia, particularly China, continues to perk up due to a rebound of the furniture sector. Increase in demand is estimated as the peak demand season for derivative Polystyrene is set to commence.

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Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 6, 2009

CRUDE OIL
May delivery crude oil prices ended the week of April 6, 2009 at US$52.6 on the Nymex. Brent crude also ended at similar levels, rising as worldd leaders announced measures to fight the global recession at the G20 meet in London.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended April 6, 2009 click here

Wittmann Battenfeld to exhibit new INDUMOLD process for high-gloss surfaces at Chinaplas

At this year's Chinaplas in Guangzhou from May 18 to 21, the Austrian Wittmann group will exhibit its brand-new INDUMOLD process for inductive heating of injection molding tools (Hall 11.1, booth E21)).

For more details on Wittmann Battenfeld to exhibit new INDUMOLD process for high-gloss surfaces at Chinaplas click here

Pipelife Sweden upgrades production line

Pipelife Sweden, a part of Pipelife, one of Europe's leading providers of piping solutions, recently upgraded their production line in Ölsremma (Sweden) which allows achieving an even more constant quuality of the pipes.

For more details on Pipelife Sweden upgrades production line click here

Europe's leading pipe supplier expects tough 2009 due to construction slowdown

Wavin N.V., leading supplier of plastic pipe systems and solutions in Europe, is facing the heat in Q1 2009 due to a pan-European decline in construction activity. Compared to Q1 2008, Wavin's Q1 20099 revenue decreased around 35% to approximately EUR 250 mln, according to the guidance provided on the company's website.

For more details on Europe's leading pipe supplier expects tough 2009 due to construction slowdown click here

Foamex agrees to sell all its assets; awaits US Bankruptcy Court approval

Foamex International Inc., a US-based producer of polyurethane foam-based solutions, recently announced that it has signed an agreement to sell substantially all of its assets to an affiliate of MatliinPatterson Global Opportunities Partners III L.

For more details on Foamex agrees to sell all its assets; awaits US Bankruptcy Court approval click here

US-based Rogers Corporation to acquire assets of MTI Global Inc. silicones business

Rogers Corporation, US-headquartered developer of high performance specialty materials-based products, recently announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire certain assets of MTI Global Inc.'ss silicones business for US$7.

For more details on US-based Rogers Corporation to acquire assets of MTI Global Inc. silicones business click here

UTECH Europe 2009 attendance far exceeds expectations

Despite the global economic downturn, the 10th UTECH Europe event, held in Maastricht (The Netherlands), from March 31 to April 2, was rated a success, with attendance far exceeding the expectations oof all exhibitors.

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Aseptic filling of sensitive beverages in PET at ambient temperature unveiled

Sidel Group, one of the leaders in packaging liquid foods, have recently announced that its patented dry preform decontamination system - Predis™, initially used for beverages distributed in the coldd chain, can now also be used for products sold at ambient temperature.

For more details on Aseptic filling of sensitive beverages in PET at ambient temperature unveiled click here

Ethylene output rises in Japan in March

Japan's ethylene output increased by 8.5% in March on the month to 504,700 metric tons, marking the first on-month increase since November, according to data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Inndustry.

For more details on Ethylene output rises in Japan in March click here

LyondellBasell mulls permanent shutdown of French LDPE plant

LyondellBasell plans to permanently shut its 110000 tpa LDPE plant that has been idled for the past few weeks. Located at Fos-sur-Mer in France, this plant, the company's smallest is no longer economiically viable.

For more details on LyondellBasell mulls permanent shutdown of French LDPE plant click here

Qapco inks contract of affreightment with Danish company

With the successful start up of its ethylene expansion project (EP2) in Q4-2007, Qatar Petrochemical Company's (Qapco) has become an ethylene exporter. With EP2, Qapco's annual ethylene production ccapacity has increased from 535,000 tons to 720,000 tons.

For more details on Qapco inks contract of affreightment with Danish company click here

Consortium of banks in India to provide financing for Egyptian petrochemical plant

India's TCI Sanmar Chemicals has arranged US$645 mln financing for a VCM and PVC producing complex in Egypt. A long-term loan of US$575 mln will be provided by a syndicate of Indian banks including Sttate Bank of India, Bank of India, ICICI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Axis Bank, Export-Import Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Indian Bank, Syndicate Bank and Union Bank of India.

For more details on Consortium of banks in India to provide financing for Egyptian petrochemical plant click here

Kuwait Petroleum Corp plans to invest US$82 bln in hydrocarbons in next 5 years

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) plans to invest KD24 bln (US$82.5 bln) over the next five years on developing its upstream and downstream capacity, comprising KD11.2 bln on upstream projects, KD122 bln on downstream infrastructure, KD209 mln on petrochemicals projects, and KD712 mln on undisclosed projects up to 2014.

For more details on Kuwait Petroleum Corp plans to invest US$82 bln in hydrocarbons in next 5 years click here

Maximum growth for minimally invasive medical devices

A 7.8% pa global growth rate has been forecast for minimally invasive medical devices as per a report by BCC Research, increasing market's value to US$23.0 bln in 2014, from US$14.8 bln in 2008 and ann estimated US$15.

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Oil prices extend losses as equities spiral lower

New York's main futures contract, light sweet crude for May delivery, dipped by a dollar to hover slightly above US$50, while Brent North Sea crude for May stands at US$52.7. A more than one dollar faall was seen in oil prices in response to concerns over falling global stock markets in response to news that recession has deepened in Europe in Q4-08, broadening recession and the bearish outlook for energy demand, coupled with the strengthening dollar, that makes dollar-priced crude more expensive for buyers using other currencies.

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Linde, Sinopec subsidiary join forces for industrial gases supply in Chongqing, China

The Linde Group has secured a contract with Sinopec Sichuan Vinylon Works (SVW) to jointly build gas plants and produce industrial gases for the long-term supply to SVW's chemical complex. This collabboration will result in an initial investment of approximately EUR 50 mln.

For more details on Linde, Sinopec subsidiary join forces for industrial gases supply in Chongqing, China click here

Japan, Venezuela deepen oil & gas, refining ties

In a recent meeting held between state officials of Venezuela and Japan, the two nations will reportedly join forces to exploit the Latin American country's Orinoco Oil Belt besides considering collabborating in other areas.

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