Two breakthroughs from Inergy Automotive Systems reduce environmental impact

Solvay announced that its affiliate Inergy Automotive Systems, world leader in plastic fuel systems for the automotive industry, has started production at its Rottenburg plant, Germany, of its patenteed selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system using Adblue, which is reducing the concentration of nitrogen oxides in diesel exhaust gasses of the Audi Q7 TDI diesel.

For more details on Two breakthroughs from Inergy Automotive Systems reduce environmental impact click here

ExxonMobil presses to improve fuel efficiency, performance of cars; launches all-electric car program

ExxonMobil recently announced the sponsorship of an all-electric car-sharing and rental program, called AltCar, at the Maryland Science Center in Baltimore, MD. The new electric vehicles at the sciencce center, called the Maya-300, are powered exclusively by enhanced lithium ion battery technology.

For more details on ExxonMobil presses to improve fuel efficiency, performance of cars; launches all-electric car program click here

INEOS ChlorVinyls to up S-PVC prices

Due to the increasing cost of ethylene led by upward movement in crude oil and naphtha prices, INEOS ChlorVinyls has announced to increase price for all its S-PVC grades in Europe by EUR 130/ton effecctive July 01, 2009.

For more details on INEOS ChlorVinyls to up S-PVC prices click here

Eastman Chemical receives Cradle to CradleCM certification for polyesters

Eastman Chemical Company has received Cradle to CradleCM (C2C) Silver certification from McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry, LLC (MBDC) for a number of Eastman polyesters. The certification includess polymers within several product families: Eastman Cadence™, Eastar™, Ecdel™, Eastman Embrace™, Eastman Lenstar™, MedStar™, Eastman Neostar™, ParaStar™, Eastman Provista™, Eastman Spectar™ and Eastman TiGlaze™.

For more details on Eastman Chemical receives Cradle to CradleCM certification for polyesters click here

New road building technology with polymers can cut costs by up to 30%

A new, less expensive road building technology which, according to the South African owner of the company, can significantly reduce road construction costs by upto 30%, is based on a polymer-based adhhesive that binds soils to create durable road foundations.

For more details on New road building technology with polymers can cut costs by up to 30% click here

AT Plastics Inc. renamed Celanese EVA Performance Polymers Inc.

Chemical company Celanese Corp. plans to rename its AT Plastics Inc. unit’s name to Celanese EVA Performance Polymers Inc., with effect from Aug. 1, 2009.
AT Plastics Inc. unit produces ethylene viinyl acetate copolymer and low-density polyethylene and has been renamed to highlight the company’s commitment to an investment in its Edmonton, Canada-based facility.

For more details on AT Plastics Inc. renamed Celanese EVA Performance Polymers Inc. click here

Global plastics additive market expected to grow at CAGR of 4.1% pa till 2014

The global market for plastics additives is expected to increase from US$36.2 bln in 2008 to an estimated US$37.4 bln in 2009, and US$45.8 bln in 2014, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% as per a report by Reportlinker.

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Saudi bourse consents to rights issue for Sahara Petchem, SAAB

The Saudi bourse regulator has approved rights issues for Sahara Petrochemicals Co and insurance firm SABB Takaful worth a total US$360 mln amid tight credit conditions. The Capital Market Authority hhas approved a 1.

For more details on Saudi bourse consents to rights issue for Sahara Petchem, SAAB click here

Industry expectations that can boost the consumption of petrochemicals in India

The growth potential of India’s polymer and petrochemical industry has not completely materialized largely due to the high excise duty rate on petrochemicals. To boost petrochem consumption to partiallly/fully offset the loss in revenue from excise duty, the industry has a few expectations that include:

Import duty on two basic feedstocks naphtha and propane be reduced from 5% to nil.

For more details on Industry expectations that can boost the consumption of petrochemicals in India click here

Crude oil prices stay below US$70

For the second consecutive week, crude oil prices have finished in the red, settling below US$70. Light sweet crude oil for August delivery settled at US$69.1, doen by over one dollar for the week amiid rough trading.

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Fire resistant polymer coatings that resist temperatures upto 1000 degree C

Researchers have developed a new class of fire-resistant polymer coatings are not only cheap and versatile but are also able to survive much higher heat. A team at CSIRO in Australia has developed thhe fire- resistant coating materials, called HIPS (hybrid inorganic polymer system), which can withstand temperatures of up to 1000°C and could be applied to building materials.

For more details on Fire resistant polymer coatings that resist temperatures upto 1000 degree C click here

Plastic Technologies forms subsidiary to market food-grade rPET production system globally

Plastic Technologies, Inc., (USA), a recognized player in plastics packaging industry, has established a subsidiary, PTI Recycling Systems, LLC, to bring its proven LNOc recycled polyethylene terephthhalate (rPET) production process to the global marketplace.

For more details on Plastic Technologies forms subsidiary to market food-grade rPET production system globally click here

KraussMaffei bolsters Gulf presence due to strong growth potential

Plastics processing machinery maker KraussMaffei has bolstered its presence in the Arabian Gulf through a sales partnership agreement with eRam Holding. In recent years, the area has become not only aa producer and refiner of oil, but increasingly a location for businesses producing oil-based products, including plastics production and processing.

For more details on KraussMaffei bolsters Gulf presence due to strong growth potential click here

Celanese underlines commitment to high value EVA polymers and LDPE resin business

Celanese Corp., a leading, global chemical company, will change the name of its AT Plastics Inc. business to Celanese EVA Performance Polymers Inc. the company's AT Plastics Inc. produces ethylene vinnyl acetate (EVA) copolymer and low density polyethylene (LDPE) resins.

For more details on Celanese underlines commitment to high value EVA polymers and LDPE resin business click here

Arkema reorganizes MMA/PMMA business; 239 employees affected

French chemical maker Arkema and its subsidiary Altuglas International have announced reorganization of both the Arkema Carling site (France) and the Altuglas International PMMA Sheet business. The coompany which produces methyl methacrylate (MMA) at its Carling (France) and Rho (Italy) sites will shut down its French plant to concentrate MMA production on its Rho site in Italy.

For more details on Arkema reorganizes MMA/PMMA business; 239 employees affected click here

BASF ups pricing for Acrylic Acid and Acrylic Esters in North and South America

BASF will increase the selling prices for the following Acrylic Acid and Acrylic Esters in North and South America by US$0.10 per pound for all shipments, effective July 1, 2009, or as contracts permiit:
-- Glacial Acrylic Acid
-- Methyl Acrylate
-- Ethyl Acrylate
-- Butyl Acrylate
-- 2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate
These increases are due to elevated operating costs from rapidly increasing raw material prices associated with tight supply in the propylene, oxo-alcohols and acrylates markets.

For more details on BASF ups pricing for Acrylic Acid and Acrylic Esters in North and South America click here

OEMs, compounders, and molders to benefit from Eastman's new TPE application center

Eastman Chemical Company has announced the opening of its thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) application development center. The new facility will allow Eastman to combine its portfolio of high-performancee additives and specialty polymers with its technical expertise to help compounders, component manufacturers and OEMs develop solutions for exciting new TPE applications.

For more details on OEMs, compounders, and molders to benefit from Eastman's new TPE application center click here

Mirel bioplastic certified compostable by Biodegradable Products Institute

Metabolix, Inc. announced that Mirel bioplastic resins produced by Telles, its joint venture with Archer Daniels Midland Company, have been certified compostable by the Biodegradable Products Institutte (BPI), an independent North American certifier of compostable material.

For more details on Mirel bioplastic certified compostable by Biodegradable Products Institute click here

LyondellBasell achieves two million tonnes of Hostalen ACP HDPE capacity

LyondellBasell Industries has achieved another significant milestone in the global market introduction of its Hostalen Advanced Cascade Process (ACP) technology, with two million tonnes of multimodal high density polyethylene (HDPE) capacity installed and under construction to date.

For more details on LyondellBasell achieves two million tonnes of Hostalen ACP HDPE capacity click here

New high renewable content TPEs unveiled for eco-conscious products

GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers, a business of PolyOne, recently introduced VERSAFLEX™ BIO TPEs for injection molding which it says are formulated with upto 70% renewable resources. These translucent graades, unveiled at NPE 2009, are available in a range of Shore A hardnesses.

For more details on New high renewable content TPEs unveiled for eco-conscious products click here

Arkema ups prices for suspension PVC range

French chemical maker Arkema has announced EUR 120/ton price increase for its entire suspension PVC (polyvinyl chloride) range from July 1, 2009. The increase is to offset rises in raw material costs in recent months, such as ethylene and additionally the negative trend of the caustic soda market, which put a huge pressure on chlor-vinyl chain.

For more details on Arkema ups prices for suspension PVC range click here

Intermediates, polymer producer INVISTA forays into engineering polymers business

INVISTA, global manufacturer of chemical intermediates, polymers and fibers, announced its entry into a new business focused on nylon engineering polymers. Already a producer of nylon fiber, INVISTA'ss entry into this particular plastics market, known as engineering polymers, enables the company to provide nylon products for applications such as automotive, electrical, consumer electronics and sporting goods.

For more details on Intermediates, polymer producer INVISTA forays into engineering polymers business click here

Rapid Granulator unveils flexible soundproofing solution for workplace

Rapid Granulator (Sweden), the world leader in plastics granulation technology, unveiled at NPE 2009 the Modular Silencing System (MSS) to offer molders and OEMs an innovative noise reducing solution in light of national and international regulatory constraints at the workplace.

For more details on Rapid Granulator unveils flexible soundproofing solution for workplace click here

High performance polyolefins to address challenges facing healthcare value chain

The Dow Chemical Company recently introduced a portfolio of high performance polyolefins that includes a strong commitment to service, production quality and regulatory compliance, to address specificc challenges facing the healthcare device value chain.

For more details on High performance polyolefins to address challenges facing healthcare value chain click here

PolyOne unveils breakthrough high-heat, durable biopolymer compounds

PolyOne recently unveiled the revolutionary new Resound™ platform of biopolymer compounds at NPE 2009. These patent-pending compounds, formulated with a 30% minimum bio-derived content, offer a substaantial boost in performance for current and future bio-based materials.

For more details on PolyOne unveils breakthrough high-heat, durable biopolymer compounds click here

LANXESS ups prices for basic chemicals

Specialty chemicals company LANXESS announced that its Basic Chemicals business unit (BAC) has increased prices worldwide for its entire product portfolio by a minimum of seven per cent with immediatee effect.

For more details on LANXESS ups prices for basic chemicals click here

BASF shuts PS plant at Ludwigshafen as demand slides; European capacity curtailed by 15%

BASF has announced to shut one polystyrene plant at the Ludwigshafen site effective June 30, 2009 due to slide in demand. This will reduce BASF's annual production capacity for the standard plastic poolystyrene in Europe by 80,000 to 540,000 metric tons, a capacity reduction of about 15%.

For more details on BASF shuts PS plant at Ludwigshafen as demand slides; European capacity curtailed by 15% click here

SABIC-IP's new, high-tech shield to protect transit operators in Toronto

SABIC Innovative Plastics introduced a new, high-tech shield to enhance the protection of transit operators in Toronto at NPE 2009. This new high-value operator protection is made of Lexan* polycarbonnate sheet and coated with the Exatec* E900 advanced plasma technology at Exatec's facility in Wixom, Mich.

For more details on SABIC-IP's new, high-tech shield to protect transit operators in Toronto click here

New state-of-the-art Film Application Development Center unveiled by Dow

The Dow Chemical Company unveiled the new Dow Film Application Development Center featuring a Hosokawa Alpine American 7-layer coextrusion blown film line in Freeport, Texas to encourage continued innnovation in packaging material product development.

For more details on New state-of-the-art Film Application Development Center unveiled by Dow click here

Solutia posts US$131 mln net sales in May; re-affirms FY 2009 guidance

US-based performance materials and specialty chemicals company Solutia Inc. announced that based on its performance through May, it is re-affirming its full-year 2009 adjusted EBITDA guidance from conntinuing operations of US$325 mln to US$350 mln and its full-year 2009 total cash from operations less capital expenditures guidance of US$50 to US$100 mln.

For more details on Solutia posts US$131 mln net sales in May; re-affirms FY 2009 guidance click here

Sweden's Rapid Granulator announces acquisition of China's Avian Machinery at NPE

Rapid Granulator AB, the Swedish-based leader in plastics granulation and technology, and part of the Pennsylvania based IPEG, announced at the NPE show that it has acquired Avian Machinery, the Shangghai-based manufacturer of granulator and recycling systems.

For more details on Sweden's Rapid Granulator announces acquisition of China's Avian Machinery at NPE click here

LyondellBasell to continue Chocolate Bayou production till Sep end; to increase PE prices in Europe

LyondellBasell will continue production of high density polyethylene (HDPE) at its Chocolate Bayou plant near Alvin, Texas up to Sept. 30, 2009. The company had previously announced that production woould cease by July 31.

For more details on LyondellBasell to continue Chocolate Bayou production till Sep end; to increase PE prices in Europe click here

Saudi Aramco, Sumitomo Chemical to complete Rabigh II feasibility study by Q3 - 2010

State-owned oil giant Saudi Aramco and one of Japan's leading chemical makers Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd announced the selection of JGC Corporation as the Project Management Services Contractor to connduct a feasibility study for the development of the Rabigh Phase II Project.

For more details on Saudi Aramco, Sumitomo Chemical to complete Rabigh II feasibility study by Q3 - 2010 click here

Sustainability and recyclability of PET plastic promoted by Husky

Injection molding equipment supplier Husky Injection Molding Systems announced initiatives that will raise awareness about the benefits of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) as a packaging material. To support this goal, Husky is participating in several projects dedicated to providing accurate information about the safety, sustainability and recyclability of PET.

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Replan commences propylene supply to Braskem in Paulínia

Propylene supply to Braskem has started from Replan, in Paulínia, in the state of São Paulo as per an agreement reached with Petrobras,. About 260,000 tpa will be delivered through the pipeline that cconnects the two units.

For more details on Replan commences propylene supply to Braskem in Paulínia click here

China Petrochemicals Report Q3 2009 - New Company and Market Analysis

The Chinese petrochemicals industry is unlikely to experience any further contraction in output, but the chief question remains whether it is in a trough or beginning its recovery phase as per a reporrt on companiesandmarkets.

For more details on China Petrochemicals Report Q3 2009 - New Company and Market Analysis click here

Polymers to aid in stain removal from clothes

A new partnership to bring “virtually waterless” laundry cleaning technology to the retail dry cleaning industry has been announced by GreenEarth Cleaning, LLC and Xeros Ltd. GreenEarth will have excllusive rights to distribute the Xeros technology throughout North America to retail dry cleaners.

For more details on Polymers to aid in stain removal from clothes click here

Indonesia’s Pertamina selects Dow’s UNIPOL™ PP Process for new project

Indonesia' s s PT Pertamina has selected Dow’s UNIPOL™ Polypropylene Process Technology for its new 250,000 tpa polypropylene facility. The project, to be completed in 2011 is to be located at the Ballongan complex in West Java, Indonesia.

For more details on Indonesia’s Pertamina selects Dow’s UNIPOL™ PP Process for new project click here

New surface coating withstands corrosion attacks during PVC extrusion

Extrusion Dies Industries, LLC (EDI) unveiled a new surface coating on flat dies at NPE 2009 which it says withstands attacks from the corrosive hydrochloric acid (HCl) generated in the course of extrruding PVC.

For more details on New surface coating withstands corrosion attacks during PVC extrusion click here

Solvay Advanced Polymers' modified PEEK provides rigidity, chemical resistance to new MRI assembly

Invivo Corp.'s new Luminescence Breast System (LBS), an MRI system for diagnostic imaging and biopsy, features an immobilization system that includes several integral parts made of AvaSpire® AV-651 moodified PEEK (polyetheretherketone) from Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC.

For more details on Solvay Advanced Polymers' modified PEEK provides rigidity, chemical resistance to new MRI assembly click here

Metabolix, Teknor Color to develop color concentrates for Mirel PHA biopalstic

Bioplastics maker Metabolix, Inc. announced that Telles, its joint venture with Archer Daniels Midland Company, has collaborated with Teknor Color Company to develop a range of color concentrates for use with Mirel PHA biopalstic resin.

For more details on Metabolix, Teknor Color to develop color concentrates for Mirel PHA biopalstic click here

Merquinsa, DuPont collaborate on renewably-sourced TPUs

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) specialty producer Merquinsa announced at NPE2009, the launch of a new family of Pearlthane® ECO TPU grades made with DuPont™ Cerenol® renewably-sourced polyol in a sttrategic collaboration between the two companies.

For more details on Merquinsa, DuPont collaborate on renewably-sourced TPUs click here

Borouge's innovative plastic pipes systems highlighted at international water convention

Borouge, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, is participating in the second annual Singapore International Water Week (SIWW), taking place from June 22 to 26 2009 at tthe Suntec International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore.

For more details on Borouge's innovative plastic pipes systems highlighted at international water convention click here

KraussMaffei production cell with all-electric IMM to tour Europe

German injection molding machines manufacturer KraussMaffei is taking one of its AX production cells on tour in Germany and six other European countries, including the UK, Spain and Turkey. Between laate June and mid-November 2009 live demonstrations will showcase a complete injection moulding solution and its capacity to sharply reduce unit manufacturing cost.

For more details on KraussMaffei production cell with all-electric IMM to tour Europe click here

SABIC-IP's specialty compound helps cut weight, adds toughness to unique, electric bicycle

SABIC Innovative Plastics has helped a personal mobility solutions provider -- Karbon Kinetics Ltd. (KKL) -- to develop a unique lightweight, electric bicycle. The 16.2 kg fold-up bicycle, Gocycle, usses SABIC's high-value Verton* RV00CE specialty compound and is claimed to be the lightest production electric bicycle in the world.

For more details on SABIC-IP's specialty compound helps cut weight, adds toughness to unique, electric bicycle click here

BASF to increase price for Styropor and Neopor Expandable polystyrene

BASF announced it is increasing prices for all grades of Styropor® and Neopor® Expandable polystyrene by US$0.05 per pound effective July 15, 2009 or as contracts permit. This increase is in addition to the previously announced increase that was effective in June 2009.

For more details on BASF to increase price for Styropor and Neopor Expandable polystyrene click here

A flare in Nova Corunna’s olefin unit caused by a steam pressure loss

A huge flaring has occurred at Nova Chemical’s Corunna site. The flare was caused by a steam pressure loss in Nova Corunna’s olefin unit. Loss of pressure coerced the company to take a compressor downn, resulting in high flaring, black smoke and a lot of noise.

For more details on A flare in Nova Corunna’s olefin unit caused by a steam pressure loss click here

Sipchem sells 11% stake in two affiliates for $64 mln

Saudi International Petrochemical Co (Sipchem) has hived off 11% stakes in two affiliates to Kuwait's Ikarus Petroleum Industries for SR240 mln (US$64 mln). Sipchem will realize a profit of SR55 milliion from the deal in Q2 2009.

For more details on Sipchem sells 11% stake in two affiliates for $64 mln click here

Petron to issue preferred shares to raise cap to P15 bln

Philippine’s largest oil refiner and retailer Petron Corp. plans to raise an estimated P15 billion by issuing preferred shares in Q3-09 to fund planned expansion projects for the year, particularly Peetron’s petrochemical operations and for a retail network expansion program and further improvement at its 180,000 bpd Bataan refinery.

For more details on Petron to issue preferred shares to raise cap to P15 bln click here

China National Chemical Corp restarts bidding for Dow AgroSciences

China’s largest chemical maker; state-owned China National Chemical Corp (ChemChina) has restarted bidding for Dow AgroSciences at a cost estimated between US$5-7 billion. Dow AgroSciences is the agriicultural chemical subsidiary of Dow Chemical.

For more details on China National Chemical Corp restarts bidding for Dow AgroSciences click here

Japan's JGC awarded contract for feasibility study for Petro Rabigh complex

Japan’s JGC Corporation has been awarded a project to conduct a feasibility study for expansion of the refinery and chemicals complex in Rabigh by Saudi Aramco and Sumitomo Chemicals. The study for exxpansion of the US$10 bln (SAR 37.

For more details on Japan's JGC awarded contract for feasibility study for Petro Rabigh complex click here

Oil prices at 2 week lows as investors focus on weak outlook for the global economy

Light, sweet crude for July delivery settled at US$66.9 in New York- the lowest closing price since June 3. Monday witnessed a very sharp drop in oil prices as investors ponder over the weak outlook ffor the global economy, despite supply concerns caused by continuing political unrest in Iran and militant attacks on oil installations in Nigeria.

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Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended June 22, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices dipped by over a dollar to US$71 per barrel in the week of June 22, 2009. Weak fuel demand despite data indicating a recoveryy in the global economy has kept crude oil pegged at US$71 per barrel.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended June 22, 2009 click here

12.0 mm diameter co-rotating twin screw lab extruder unveiled at NPE 2009 by Indian manufacturer

Steer has released Omicron 12, a state-of-the-art, co-rotating twin screw lab extruder at NPE. The extruder has been conceptualized and designed to cater to the rapidly changing market requirements oof the pharmaceutical, polymer & elastomer industries worldwide.

For more details on 12.0 mm diameter co-rotating twin screw lab extruder unveiled at NPE 2009 by Indian manufacturer click here

Metabolix unveils next generation injection molding grade of Mirel bioplastics

Metabolix announced that Telles, the joint venture between Metabolix, Inc. and Archer Daniels Midland Company that produces Mirel(TM) bioplastics, has developed its next generation of injection moldinng bioplastic, Mirel P1003, in a collaborative effort with Nypro, a leading global precision plastics molder.

For more details on Metabolix unveils next generation injection molding grade of Mirel bioplastics click here

Evonik to increase prices of methacrylate monomers

The Performance Polymers Business Unit of Evonik Industries, one of the world's leading suppliers of methacrylate chemicals, will raise the prices of its VISIOMER® Methacrylate Monomers w.e.f. July 011, 2009.

For more details on Evonik to increase prices of methacrylate monomers click here

Gloucester Engineering introduces the Centrum CS winder at NPE 2009

Gloucester Engineering, a leading player in plastics extrusion industry, introduced its new Centrum CS winder, a revolutionary blown film center surface winder capable of winding in forward and reversse modes.

For more details on Gloucester Engineering introduces the Centrum CS winder at NPE 2009 click here

Wear-resistant polyamide-imide materials unveiled for lubricated and non-lubricated environments

Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, has launched a pair of new wear-resistant Torlon® polyamide-imide (PAI) grades that deliver significantly better wear performance than other available Torlon wear-resisttant materials.

For more details on Wear-resistant polyamide-imide materials unveiled for lubricated and non-lubricated environments click here

Cytec Engineered Materials forms new Industrial-focused team

Cytec Engineered Materials (CEM), a business unit of Cytec Industries Inc. (USA) has formed a new group to address the growing need for advanced materials within the industrial sector. This new group will leverage the technologies of the Cytec portfolio across multiple industrial markets, such as wind, alternative energy, construction, marine and high performance automotive.

For more details on Cytec Engineered Materials forms new Industrial-focused team click here

Cereplast unveils breakthrough bio-based foamable resin

Cereplast, Inc., developer of proprietary bio-based sustainable plastics, recently announced the launch of a breakthrough bio-based foamable resin to compete with Styrofoam® and other foamable petroleeum-based resins.

For more details on Cereplast unveils breakthrough bio-based foamable resin click here

Dow, Gazprom ink MOU for carbon reduction projects

The Dow Chemical Company (USA) and Gazprom Marketing and Trading Limited (Russia) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop and implement greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction projects oon a global basis.

For more details on Dow, Gazprom ink MOU for carbon reduction projects click here

Hexion to up prices for composite polymers

Hexion Specialty Chemicals, a leader in thermoset resins, announced that it will increase prices for its unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resin systems in North America by five cents per pound efffective July 6, 2009.

For more details on Hexion to up prices for composite polymers click here

Continued Growth of the PVC Market

In 2008, the PVC world market reached a volume of 34 million tons from demand of 24 million tons in 2000. However, the 5% annual rate of growth seen in the past will probably not continue. Neverthelesss, Ceresana Research expects global PVC demand to increase by an average of 2% pa, despite the precarious financial crisis.

For more details on Continued Growth of the PVC Market click here

China to continue as attractive market for polypropylene

Over the past decade, China has emerged as the principal manufacturing and export location for low value plastic products in the world due to low manufacturing costs and significant government supportt as per Global Markets Direct.

For more details on China to continue as attractive market for polypropylene click here

Vietnam to export its maiden propylene cargo

Vietnam is scheduled to export it's first-ever propylene cargo of 5,000 tons in H2-July to term contract buyer Marubeni Corp. of Japan, as per Platts Thursday. Marubeni is expected to transport the paarcel in pressurized rather than refrigerated form, with the shipment likely headed for Indonesia or east China.

For more details on Vietnam to export its maiden propylene cargo click here

Idemitsu and Showa Denko raise run rates to near full capacity

Boosted by recovery in petrochemical demand, Idemitsu Kosan Co and Showa Denko are to increase run rates at their naphtha crackers. Idemitsu has hiked cracker run rates by 10-15% to about 95% at Chibaa and Tokuyama, while Showa Denko is operating its 615,000 tpa cracker at full capacity.

For more details on Idemitsu and Showa Denko raise run rates to near full capacity click here

Crude hovers around US$71, arrests fours weeks of consecutive price hike

Weak fuel demand despite data indicating a recovery in the global economy has kept crude oil pegged at US$71 per barrel. This marks a stop to four consecutive weeks of oil price hike. The weakening doollar has made oil an attractive option for investors, pushing up oil prices as they buy contracts as an inflation hedge to offset a decline in the dollar.

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China will be the principal driver of polyethylene demand till 2020

The Chinese polyethylene market size was US$$13,865 million in 2008 and is forecast to grow by more than 8%, accounting for nearly 17% of the global polyethylene demand in 2020 as per Global Markets DDirect.

For more details on China will be the principal driver of polyethylene demand till 2020 click here

Inergy Automotive bolsters presence to capitalise on growing Asian market

Inergy Automotive Systems, a Solvay and Plastic Omnium joint venture and a world leader in plastic automotive fuel systems, is set to bolster its presence in the fast-growing automotive industry in Assia.

For more details on Inergy Automotive bolsters presence to capitalise on growing Asian market click here

Dow Chemical to increase prices for Emulsion Polymers Products in North America

Effective July 16, 2009, or as contracts permit, Dow Emulsion Polymers, a business unit of The Dow Chemical Company and its subsidiaries, is increasing the prices of all styrene butadiene (S/B) latex and acrylic latex products sold into the carpet industry by US$0.

For more details on Dow Chemical to increase prices for Emulsion Polymers Products in North America click here

Mold-Masters, ENGEL to present 10 cavity multi-material system at NPE

Leader in hot runner technology, Mold-Masters and plastic processing machinery maker, ENGEL will showcase a 10 cavity multi-material system at NPE in June 2009. A completely balanced 10 cavity, 2 mateerial poker chip will be produced every 22 seconds on an ENGEL e-max 110 ton injection molding machine at the Mold-Masters booth.

For more details on Mold-Masters, ENGEL to present 10 cavity multi-material system at NPE click here

Arkema partners Bioplastics Chair at Mines ParisTech School

France's leading chemical producer Arkema is one of the four partners of the Bioplastics Chair created at the Mines Paris Tech school, launched officially on June 18th 2009. The other leading industriial players include L'Oréal, Nestlé Waters, PSA and Schneider Electric.

For more details on Arkema partners Bioplastics Chair at Mines ParisTech School click here

Saudi Aramco, Total award EPC contracts for Jubail JV refinery; start up set for H2 - 2013

Saudi Aramco Total Refining and Petrochemical Company (SATORP) finalized the awarding plan for Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contracts that constitute the thirteen different process packages of their Jubail joint venture refinery, following a meeting of the SATORP Board of Directors.

For more details on Saudi Aramco, Total award EPC contracts for Jubail JV refinery; start up set for H2 - 2013 click here

New hydrophilic PU coatings offer low swelling along with strength and durability for medical devices

Bayer MaterialScience LLC recently developed a new family of hydrophilic polyurethane coatings which are intended to combine lubricity and hemocompatibility with the superior mechanical properties forr medical devices.

For more details on New hydrophilic PU coatings offer low swelling along with strength and durability for medical devices click here

Songwon sets production of its new isobutylene facility underway

Korea's Songwon Industrial Co. Ltd. has announced that its new US$20 mln isobutylene (IBL) production facility, located at the Maeam site in South Korea, has been successfully commissioned and is now fully in production.

For more details on Songwon sets production of its new isobutylene facility underway click here

Dow Polyurethanes to increase prices for PU raw materials

Effective July 1, 2009, or as contract terms allow, Dow Polyurethanes, a business group within The Dow Chemical Company and its affiliates including Dow Europe GmbH, will increase prices for its Polyuurethane raw materials.

For more details on Dow Polyurethanes to increase prices for PU raw materials click here

Global airline switches to biopolymer coated 'Bio-Cups'

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has become the first global carrier to switch from using conventional oil-based polystyrene coffee and tea cups to 'Bio-Cups' made with Ingeo™ coating. Initially introduced att the beginning of November 2008, these cups are now being used as the responsible alternative across the whole KLM fleet.

For more details on Global airline switches to biopolymer coated 'Bio-Cups' click here

New SBC grades for shrink film labels offer yield advantage and blend capability over others

Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, one of the leading polyolefin producers, recently unveiled K-Resin® styrene butadiene copolymer (SBC) film grades specifically designed for shrink label applicationss.

For more details on New SBC grades for shrink film labels offer yield advantage and blend capability over others click here

Huntsman to increase prices for polyol products

The Polyurethanes division of Huntsman Corporation (USA) announced that it will increase the price of all JEFFOL® polyol products by eight cents per pound ($0.08/lb) in the NAFTA region, effective Jully 15, 2009, or as specific contracts allow.

For more details on Huntsman to increase prices for polyol products click here

Spain's Merquinsa launches new Bio TPU label for consumer products

Thermoplastic polyurethane specialty producer Merquinsa (Spain) announced the launch of a new "Bio TPU by Merquinsa" label for consumer products - such as footwear, sport or electronics equipments, ammong others - based on high performance, renewable and recyclable resins.

For more details on Spain's Merquinsa launches new Bio TPU label for consumer products click here

PolyOne to launch breakthrough technologies, sustainable solutions at NPE 2009

During the upcoming NPE 2009 exhibition, PolyOne Corporation (USA) will unveil numerous technology platforms and biopolymer solutions that are formulated to help customers drive value and enhance globbal competitiveness.

For more details on PolyOne to launch breakthrough technologies, sustainable solutions at NPE 2009 click here

Cost of Saudi Aramco, Total refinery drops to US$9.6 bln

A decision made by the company board in 2008 to postpone the submittal of the EPC bids to bring down costs, has paid off. Plunging construction costs amid the global financial crisis has aided in brinnging down cost of Saudi Aramco and Total's joint refinery in Saudi Arabia.

For more details on Cost of Saudi Aramco, Total refinery drops to US$9.6 bln click here

Indian polyolefins market expected to slow in Q2-09 and Q3-09

The Indian polyolefins market is expected to slow in Q209 and Q309 due to a decline in demand from industrial consumers, while some proposed projects have been thrown into doubt as financing difficultties and a deteriorating market environment have hit the petrochemicals industry, according to the latest India Petrochemicals Report.

For more details on Indian polyolefins market expected to slow in Q2-09 and Q3-09 click here

CNOOC, Shell Petrochem to expand ethylene capacity in Guangdong

CNOOC and Shell Petrochemical Co. have received approval to expand capacity at their 800,000 tpa ethylene project in Huizhou, Guangdong province. Capacity will be increased to 950,000 tpa by 2010, at an estimated outlay of US$100 mln.

For more details on CNOOC, Shell Petrochem to expand ethylene capacity in Guangdong click here

Sharq expects to achieve mechanical completion of ethylene-derivative plants at Al Jubail

Eastern Petrochemical Company (Sharq) expects to achieve mechanical completion of its ethylene-derivative plants at Al Jubail by the end 2009. However, the SABIC subsidiary will not commence commerciaal operation.

For more details on Sharq expects to achieve mechanical completion of ethylene-derivative plants at Al Jubail click here

Eurotherm's EM-3c control system offers precise extruder control for less cost

The EM-3c control system is specifically designed for small extruders and is packed with the features of the popular earlier EM-3 Extrusion Control System. Thanks to its efficient Microsoft™ Windows CCE.

For more details on Eurotherm's EM-3c control system offers precise extruder control for less cost click here

New polycarbonate film could put an end to debit card frauds and counterfeits

Bayer MaterialScience AG developed a new polycarbonate film Makrofol® ID ProteXXion that it says has the potential to end debit card frauds and counterfeiting. The film contains tiny metallic identifiication particles (OVDot®), which are distributed stochastically and can be arranged in customized patterns to deliver identification security features.

For more details on New polycarbonate film could put an end to debit card frauds and counterfeits click here

Wittmann Battenfeld, South German Plastics Center extend cooperation

The SKZ Süddeutsches Kunststoff-Zentrum (South German Plastics Center) recently received another injection molding machine from Wittmann Battenfeld. The 2,000 m² technical lab of this German plastics center is now equipped with a total of four injection molding machines from Wittmann Battenfeld, supplemented by latest automation and mold temperature control technology from Wittmann.

For more details on Wittmann Battenfeld, South German Plastics Center extend cooperation click here

France Plastique Recyclage buys another PET recycling plant from Starlinger

Projecting a strong growth for bottle-to-bottle recycling in France, France Plastique Recyclage (FPR) has signed a new contract with Starlinger (Austria) for the purchase of recycling plant machinery to equip a newly erected recycling operation in Limay, Paris.

For more details on France Plastique Recyclage buys another PET recycling plant from Starlinger click here

KraussMaffei bags three awards at SPE AuKraussMaffei bags three awards at SPE Automotive Awards 2009tomotive Awards 2009

Automotive parts produced using KraussMaffei technology won three awards at the SPE Automotive Awards 2009. KraussMaffei won first place in the category Body Exterior with a support element for the loouvered grille of the CLS Coupe from Mercedes Benz.

For more details on KraussMaffei bags three awards at SPE Automotive Awards 2009 click here

New anti-graffiti coating system could save American government's US$12 bln annually

Charlotte-based KiON Specialty Polymers (a business of Clariant in the U.S.) recently presented its novel G-Shield™ Anti-Graffiti coating system at the American Public Transportation Association (APTAA) Rail Conference Product Showcase (June 16, Chicago).

For more details on New anti-graffiti coating system could save American government's US$12 bln annually click here

Nanocyl's multi-wall CNTs to feature in Shinil's protective ESD packaging solutions

Korean company Shinil Chemical Industry CO. LTD is set to exhibit new protective Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) packaging for semiconductor and automotive industries based on Nanocyl multi-wall carbon nanotubes during the NPE (June 22-26, Chicago).

For more details on Nanocyl's multi-wall CNTs to feature in Shinil's protective ESD packaging solutions click here

Union Ministry issues notification recommending provisional anti-dumping duty on PP imported from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Singapore

n response to an appeal by Polypropylene (PP) producers in India-Reliance Industries, supported by Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd (HPL), the Union ministry of commerce has issued a notification recommendinng a provisional anti-dumping duty on PP imported from Saudi Arabia, Oman and Singapore.

For more details on Union Ministry issues notification recommending provisional anti-dumping duty on PP imported from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Singapore click here

Flexible Packaging with superior properties replacing traditional Rigid Packaging in India

Growing at a compounded annual growth rate of 17%, the Indian flexible packaging market is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing in the country as per a report by Frost&Sullivan. As the advantagges of flexible packaging of ease of handling and lesser storage space become increasingly appreciated, traditional rigid packaging will take a backseat.

For more details on Flexible Packaging with superior properties replacing traditional Rigid Packaging in India click here

Polymer that changes color instantly in response to external magnetic field

A research team at the University of California, Riverside has fabricated microscopic polymer beads that change color instantly and reversibly when external magnetic fields acting upon the microspherees change orientation.

For more details on Polymer that changes color instantly in response to external magnetic field click here

PP imports from Oman, S. Arabia and Singapore set to attract anti-dumping duty in India

As per the recently concluded investigations concerning imports of polypropylene (PP) from Oman, Saudi Arabia and Singapore into India, Government of India will impose provisional anti-dumping duty onn PP imported from the above countries.

For more details on PP imports from Oman, S. Arabia and Singapore set to attract anti-dumping duty in India click here

Borealis starts up additional gas phase reactor at Austrian plant for high flow PP materials

Borealis, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, announces the start-up of an additional gas phase reactor at its Schwechat plant in Austria that will enhance its abilityy to produce superior high flow materials for the automotive and packaging sectors.

For more details on Borealis starts up additional gas phase reactor at Austrian plant for high flow PP materials click here

SABIC, Uhde Inventa-Fischer ink contract for Ibn Rushd PET expansion project

Uhde Inventa-Fischer has entered into a contract with the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) to provide the technology license and the complete basic engineering of the 2nd PET Resin expansionn of its manufacturing affiliate, Arabian Industrial Fiber Company (Ibn Rushd) at its site in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.

For more details on SABIC, Uhde Inventa-Fischer ink contract for Ibn Rushd PET expansion project click here

Coperion delivers twin-screw extruders to the new DSM compounding facility in India

DSM's new compounding facility in Ranjangeon/India, situated not far from the city of Pune, has now been equipped with ZSK MEGAcompounder PLUS compounding extruders from Coperion GmbH, Stuttgart. Mainnly serving the Indian market, this largest compounding facility in India produces the polyamide compounds Akulon (PA 6) and Stanyl (PA 4.

For more details on Coperion delivers twin-screw extruders to the new DSM compounding facility in India click here

LyondellBasell assigns PO-derivatives distribution duties to Brenntag UK

Beginning July 1, LyondellBasell Industries will concentrate its distribution activities in the United Kingdom on Brenntag UK and Ireland, which will serve as the official distributor of the company'ss propylene oxide (PO) derivative product range.

For more details on LyondellBasell assigns PO-derivatives distribution duties to Brenntag UK click here

New line of vinyl ester resins for superior acrylic adhesion applications

US-based specialty chemical company Interplastic Corporation recently announced its new line of vinyl ester resins for acrylic adhesion applications. The CORVE8132LH series are low HAP (hazardous air pollutant) vinyl ester resins designed for superior adhesion to acrylic in a wide range of conditions and applications.

For more details on New line of vinyl ester resins for superior acrylic adhesion applications click here

Hexion to realign North American composite resins & coatings manufacturing

Hexion Specialty Chemicals recently announced that it is realigning its North American composite resins and coatings manufacturing operations to enhance service to customers while improving efficiencyy and managing costs.

For more details on Hexion to realign North American composite resins & coatings manufacturing click here

Bayer MaterialScience and Add-Vision sign license agreement on polymeric OLEDs

Bayer MaterialScience AG signed a technology and patent license agreement with Add-Vision Inc., a Delaware corporation based in Scotts Valley, California. The agreement grants Bayer MaterialScience annd its affiliates certain rights to manufacture and sell flexible polymer organic light-emitting diode (P-OLED) displays using Add-Vision's technology and intellectual property (IP) portfolio.

For more details on Bayer MaterialScience and Add-Vision sign license agreement on polymeric OLEDs click here

Asahi Kasei Medical launches hollow fiber membrane virus filters for biopharmaceutical processing

Asahi Kasei Medical Co., Ltd. are set to launch Planova™ BioEX, its new generation of hollow fiber membrane virus filters. Planova™ BioEX filters are specifically designed to meet the urgent need in ddownstream biopharmaceutical processing for robust virus filters that not only enhance safety, but also have higher filtration capacities and shorter processing times, even under demanding filtration conditions such as high protein concentration and high filtration pressure.

For more details on Asahi Kasei Medical launches hollow fiber membrane virus filters for biopharmaceutical processing click here

Renewably sourced fiber combines environmental, performance benefits for commercial carpets

DuPont announced that its renewably sourced Sorona fiber is now available for the commercial carpet industry. According to the company, carpet manufactured with DuPont Sorona fiber offers customers unncompromised performance plus the added benefit of an environmentally sustainable offering.

For more details on Renewably sourced fiber combines environmental, performance benefits for commercial carpets click here

Feasibility studies underway for ethylene cracker, VCM plant by Mexichem

Mexico’s Mexichem’s feasibility studies for a petrochemical plant in Peru is expected to be complete within two years. The US$2 bln project will comprise an ethylene cracker and a vinyl chloride monommer [VCM] plant.

For more details on Feasibility studies underway for ethylene cracker, VCM plant by Mexichem click here

Indorama in discussion to acquire Port Harcourt Refinery

Indorama is in discussions with the Federal Government to acquire operations of the Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRCL). The company will benefit from new opportunities due to complete dereegulation policy of the Federal Government in the downstream sector of the nation's petroleum industry.

For more details on Indorama in discussion to acquire Port Harcourt Refinery click here

Venezuela passes bill to take over of petrochemicals industry

Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, after nationalizing the oil sector, keenly plans to do the same with petrochemicals. Lawmakers have given a final nod of approval to a bill for the government to acquuire a minimum 50% stake in the petrochemical sector.

For more details on Venezuela passes bill to take over of petrochemicals industry click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended June 15, 2009

CRUDE OIL
In the week of June 15, 2009, crude oil prices have risen to new highs for the year to US$72.5, as compared to levels below US$35 in March. Inteerestingly, though oil prices have been rising for a month now, many analysts believe that the current oil valuation is not based on economic reality, but due to trading on perception that an economic recovery is underway.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended June 15, 2009 click here

Merquinsa´s renewable-sourced TPU to be used in sustainable running footwear products

Leading thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) specialty producer Merquinsa (Spain) announced that its bio-based TPU offering Pearlthane® ECO has been chosen to provide sustainable performance running footwwear solutions by a leading US-based company.

For more details on Merquinsa´s renewable-sourced TPU to be used in sustainable running footwear products click here

New grade of compostable resin unveiled as an alternative to polystyrene foam

Cereplast, Inc. (USA), developer of proprietary bio-based sustainable plastics, unveiled a new grade of foamable resins, Cereplast Compostable 5001®. The new resin is a compostable foam using Ingeo™ ppolylactic acid (PLA) and various biodegradable and compostable components.

For more details on New grade of compostable resin unveiled as an alternative to polystyrene foam click here

SABIC's new high flow PP grade saves manufacturing costs

SABIC has unveiled new SABIC® PP FPH50 grade designed to bring maximum value on high-speed equipment, shorter cycle times, faster injection and big savings in conversion costs. According to the companny, the new polypropylene grade increases output by 20% and faster crystallization speed enables shorter cooling times, which results in a more efficient conversion.

For more details on SABIC's new high flow PP grade saves manufacturing costs click here

Post acquisition, Foamex International is now FXI

A new company, FXI - Foamex Innovations, has been formed resulting from the acquisition of Foamex International Inc. by MatlinPatterson Global Opportunities Partners III L.P. and Black Diamond Capitall Management, L.

For more details on Post acquisition, Foamex International is now FXI click here

Dow to up prices for PC, PC compounds and PC blends on decreasing margins

Effective June 24, 2009, or as contract terms allow, Dow Europe GmbH will increase prices for its Polycarbonate, Polycarbonate Compounds and Polycarbonate Blends by EUR 200/ metric ton across the Euroopean, Middle Eastern, African and Indian regions.

For more details on Dow to up prices for PC, PC compounds and PC blends on decreasing margins click here

Innovative foam sets new standards for moisture absorption, hygiene and comfort in mattresses

Europe's leading foam manufacturer, Eurofoam (Austria), recently developed a innovation in close collaboration with Lenzing (Austria), world market leader in cellulose fiber production. The two compannies partnered to develop a new kind of foam -- cellpur - which sets new standards in moisture absorption, hygiene and comfort for use in mattresses.

For more details on Innovative foam sets new standards for moisture absorption, hygiene and comfort in mattresses click here

Johnson Controls bags two SPE awards for automotive interior systems

Johnson Controls, one of the world's leading suppliers of automotive interior systems and electronics, has bagged two awards at the 12th Automotive Division Award of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Central Europe in the category interior systems.

For more details on Johnson Controls bags two SPE awards for automotive interior systems click here

Arkema unveils new low cost tin stabilizer for PVC window profiles

Arkema Inc. has recently added a new butyl stabilizer to its line of Thermolite® tin stabilizers for high output extrusion used in the manufacture of window profiles, as well as other demanding rigid PVC applications.

For more details on Arkema unveils new low cost tin stabilizer for PVC window profiles click here

Cosmo Films acquires GBC Commercial Print Finish

Through internal accruals, debt and a seller deferred payment note of US$4 mln, Cosmo Films Ltd. has completed acquisition of GBC Commercial Print Finish business of ACCO Brands Corporation of USA. Thhe US$17.

For more details on Cosmo Films acquires GBC Commercial Print Finish click here

Thailand’s leading chemical maker plans to expand overseas market

New production capacity is to come onstream at SCG Chemicals in Q1-10, boosting capacity from 1 mln tons to 1.8 mln tons. The plant to be located at Rayong will produce 400,000 tpa of high-density pollyethylene and 400,000 tpa of polypropylene.

For more details on Thailand’s leading chemical maker plans to expand overseas market click here

Progress on two mega petrochem projects planned by GAIL decelerates

GAIL India plans to defer two mega petrochemical projects- one overseas and one in India, mainly due to declining polymer demand triggered by the global economic slowdown. GAIL’s plans comprised of:

An memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Reliance Industries to jointly set up a petrochemicals plant in gas-rich countries; listing Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Vietnam, Australia, South Africa, Angola, Mexico, Russia and Former Soviet Union as possible locations for the 2 mln tpa petrochemical plant.

For more details on Progress on two mega petrochem projects planned by GAIL decelerates click here

Aramco and Total to shortlist contenders for Jubail refinery contracts

Six out of nine contracts for the Jubail refinery project are expected to be awarded by two partners Saudi Aramco and Total by end of this month. About US$10 bln reduction in project costs is sought bby the partners, in the project expected to start operations in 2013.

For more details on Aramco and Total to shortlist contenders for Jubail refinery contracts click here

Oil prices rise behind belief that recovery is near

Crude oil prices have risen to new highs for the year to US$72.6, as compared to levels below US$35 in March. Interestingly, though oil prices have been rising for a month now, many analysts believe tthat the current oil valuation is not based on economic reality, but due to market players who are trading on perception that an economic recovery is underway.

For more details on Oil prices rise behind belief that recovery is near click here

Dyneon, Shandong Dongyue ink fluoropolymer intermediates supply agreement

Dyneon GmbH, a subsidiary of 3M and one of the largest fluoropolymer producers, and Chinese PTFE producer Shandong Dongyue Polymer Material Co. Ltd. recently inked a supply agreement for an intermediaate product for suspension PTFE.

For more details on Dyneon, Shandong Dongyue ink fluoropolymer intermediates supply agreement click here

EQUATE completes PE expansion project; production capacity touches 825,000 mtpa

EQUATE Petrochemical Company (Kuwait), one of the world's leading producer of polyethylene (PE) and ethylene glycol (EG), announced the completion and successful start-up of its Polyethylene (PE) expaansion project.

For more details on EQUATE completes PE expansion project; production capacity touches 825,000 mtpa click here

Manjushree Extrusions is now Manjushree Technopack

Bangalore based Packaging Group Manjushree Extrusions Ltd. recently announced its change of name to Manjushree Technopack Ltd, with immediate effect. While the company will retain brand 'Manjushree' aas a part of the new name, it has been decided to replace 'Extrusions' and usher in 'Technopack', to represent better, the company's two core business offerings, Packaging Technology and Packaging Solutions.

For more details on Manjushree Extrusions is now Manjushree Technopack click here

Leading corrugated HDPE pipe producer bolsters presence in North America

US-based Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc. (ADS), the world's largest producer of corrugated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe, announced plans to open two new manufacturing facilities in Canada, onne in Ontario and one in Quebec.

For more details on Leading corrugated HDPE pipe producer bolsters presence in North America click here

Polycarbonate glazing combines driver safety with all-round view for forestry machinery drivers' cabs

John Deere, a leading global manufacturer of forestry equipment, has achieved optimum driver protection against falling branches combined with a good 360-degree view for safety by using polycarbonate glazing solutions from Bayer MaterialScience in the drivers' cabs of its new E-Series of vehicles for felling timber.

For more details on Polycarbonate glazing combines driver safety with all-round view for forestry machinery drivers' cabs click here

Eastman unveils new high-performance blends for medical housing market

At the Medical Design & Manufacturing East (MD&M East) trade show (June 9 to 11, 2009) in New York, Eastman Chemical Company, together with PolyOne, launched a new family of blends based on Eastman Trritan™ copolyester.

For more details on Eastman unveils new high-performance blends for medical housing market click here

Solo launches first PP cups to expand in beverage service solutions

Solo Cup Company, a leading North American manufacturer of single-use products used to serve food and beverages, has announced the introduction of Reveal™ polypropylene cups - a new line of clear beveerage cups especially designed for convenience stores, quick-serve restaurants and other foodservice establishments.

For more details on Solo launches first PP cups to expand in beverage service solutions click here

GMR to relocate and restart barge-mounted naphtha fired power project to Kakinada

GMR Energy Ltd has decided on a Rs 400crore investment plan to relocate and restart its barge-mounted naphtha fired power project from Mangalore on the west coast to Kakinada on the east coast in Andhhra Pradesh.

For more details on GMR to relocate and restart barge-mounted naphtha fired power project to Kakinada click here

IRPC to restructure into 5 business units

Thailand’s integrated oil refiner and petrochemical manufacturer IRPC is restructuring into five business units. The five planned units are oil refining, petrochemicals, power plants, ports and properrty.

For more details on IRPC to restructure into 5 business units click here

BASF to shutter Styropor plant, further adjust production services at Tarragona

BASF will shut down the Styropor® plant (EPS, expandable polystyrene) at Tarragona, Spain in August 2009. As a direct consequence of the plant closure and due to the current downturn in BASF's key marrkets in Spain, the company will also adjust the structure of production services in Tarragona.

For more details on BASF to shutter Styropor plant, further adjust production services at Tarragona click here

Manjushree to host its second pan-India FuturePac Conference this July

Bangalore based plastic packaging group, Manjushree, will be conducting its pan-India FuturePac Conference on July 13th, 2009 with the topic for this years' conference being 'Beverages, the new Sunrisse Industry'.

For more details on Manjushree to host its second pan-India FuturePac Conference this July click here

World's largest corrugated HDPE pipes producer inks Latin American joint venture

US-based Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc. (ADS), the world's largest producer of corrugated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe entered into a joint venture agreement with Brazil's Tigre S. A. (Tigree) for the South American market.

For more details on World's largest corrugated HDPE pipes producer inks Latin American joint venture click here

IPIC gets go-ahead for Nova Chem acquisition

Canadian plastics company Nova Chemicals Corp., announced that it has received a go-ahead from Chinese Ministry of Commerce and the United States Committee on Foreign Investment for its takeover by Abbu Dhabi investment firm International Petroleum Investment Co.

For more details on IPIC gets go-ahead for Nova Chem acquisition click here

Oxo degradable additives are incompatible with mechanical recycling: EuPR

Europe is leading the market in terms of sustainable development thanks to the abundance of European legislation aiming to protect the environment. The European Treaty of Lisbon goes even further thann previous Treaty regarding environment.

For more details on Oxo degradable additives are incompatible with mechanical recycling: EuPR click here

Huntsman and Laffans join forces for specialty chemicals manufacturing in India

Huntsman Corporation (USA) and Laffans Petrochemicals Ltd. (India) have signed a Letter of Intent to finalize a collaboration agreement to share know-how, expertise and resources for specialty chemicaals.

For more details on Huntsman and Laffans join forces for specialty chemicals manufacturing in India click here

Oxea ups prices for polyols and olefin derivatives

Oxea Group, global supplier of solvents, polyols and oxo derivatives, has announced to increase list and off-list prices on for polyols and olefin derivative products effective July 1st, 2009, or as ccontracts allow.

For more details on Oxea ups prices for polyols and olefin derivatives click here

Americhem's new additive curtails cycle time and improves end product quality

Americhem Inc., a global provider of custom color and additive solutions for polymer-based products, recently developed xCelmax, a new cycle time reduction additive that shortens production time, incrreases efficiencies and improves overall end product quality.

For more details on Americhem's new additive curtails cycle time and improves end product quality click here

New radiation-stabilized medical grade polycarbonate resin unveiled for thin-wall applications

Bayer MaterialScience LLC has developed a new medical grade polycarbonate resin that addresses the increasing demand for a radiation sterilizable material for thin-wall medical applications. The newlyy introduced Makrolon Rx2435 polycarbonate resin builds upon the proven efficacy of Makrolon® Rx2530.

For more details on New radiation-stabilized medical grade polycarbonate resin unveiled for thin-wall applications click here

Dow continues conversions to zero ozone-depleting, no-VOC foaming agent technology

Dow Building Solutions successfully converted a second facility that manufactures STYROFOAM Brand Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Foam Insulation to its new zero ozone-depleting, no-VOC (volatile organic ccompound) foaming agent technology.

For more details on Dow continues conversions to zero ozone-depleting, no-VOC foaming agent technology click here

Korean refiner to more than double paraxylene, benzene capacity by 2011

S-OIL Corporation, one of the leading oil refiners in Korea, has announced plans to invest 1.4 trillion won to complete its Onsan refinery expansion project in Ulsan by June 2011. Under the project, tthe company will construct facilities for producing 900,000 tpa of paraxylene and 280,000 tpa of benzene.

For more details on Korean refiner to more than double paraxylene, benzene capacity by 2011 click here

Husky strengthens hot runner portfolio

Husky Injection Molding Systems announced the expansion of its PRONTO line of fully configurable hot runners. The new PRONTO line will be displayed at the Husky booth (S36009) at NPE 2009 (Chicago, Juune 22 - 26) and will provide customers with significantly more design flexibility and a larger number of configuration options.

For more details on Husky strengthens hot runner portfolio click here

Clariant's non-halogenated flame retardant bags EPA award

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded Clariant its New Chemicals Program P2 Recognition Project Award for the company's Exolit® OP 560, a new-generation non-halogenated flame-retaardant.

For more details on Clariant's non-halogenated flame retardant bags EPA award click here

Oil futures hit eight month highs: skirt at US$73

Benchmark crude for July delivery settled at US$72.6 on the Nymex, while Brent crude increased to US$71.79 a barrel on the ICE Futures exchange. Oil prices touched 8 month highs as the dollar dipped, and reports suggested that consumers and business may be more willing and able to spend money on energy.

For more details on Oil futures hit eight month highs: skirt at US$73 click here

Shenhua Group to invest over 400 bln yuan in next decade in oil and chemical facilities

China's biggest coal producer-Shenhua Group, plans to invest over 400 billion yuan over the next decade in facilities to convert coal to oil, methanol and gas, targeting capacity to convert 100 mln toons of coal to about 30 mln tons of oil and chemical products by 2020.

For more details on Shenhua Group to invest over 400 bln yuan in next decade in oil and chemical facilities click here

S-Oil Corp embarks ob US$1.1 bln petrochem expansion project

S-Oil Corp. has embarked on a 1.4 trillion won (US$1.1 bln) expansion project at the Onsan complex to boost its petrochemicals production capacity. This will include plans to construct a 900,000 tpa pparaxylene plant, and a 280,000 tpa benzene plant, scheduled for completion by June 2011.

For more details on S-Oil Corp embarks ob US$1.1 bln petrochem expansion project click here

Laffan Petrochemicals and Huntsman Corp, Singapore ink agreement

Laffan Petrochemicals has approved a letter of intent with Huntsman Corporation Singapore, Pte. regarding formation of commercial and manufacturing alliance. The alliance will explore opportunities to

For more details on Laffan Petrochemicals and Huntsman Corp, Singapore ink agreement click here

Israel Petrochemicals Ent. part of Oil Refineries' Control Group

Israel Corporation and Israel Petrochemical Enterprises Ltd. (IPE) have signed a joint control agreement in ORL between Israel Corp., IPE and Petroleum Capital Holdings (fully owned by IPE) along withh an addendum to the Control Agreement in the Company.

For more details on Israel Petrochemicals Ent. part of Oil Refineries' Control Group click here

PE film consumption rising in Russia

Polyethylene film extrusion now accounts for around 20% of European polymer consumption, and Russia is participating strongly in this growth, according to Applied Market Information. At the beginning of the 1990s, Russia’s plastics film industry had almost collapsed and remained extremely weak.

For more details on PE film consumption rising in Russia click here

Ineos to shutter Grangemouth plant

Ineos has yet to arrive at a decision on the future of its G4 plastics plant located in Grangemouth. The petrochem major has refuted speculation about plans to close the plant by no later than 2011 - a move that could result in loss of over 100 jobs.

For more details on Ineos to shutter Grangemouth plant click here

Americhem unveils new line of chemical blowing agents

Americhem Inc. (USA), a global provider of custom color and additive solutions for polymer-based products, recently launched an expanded line of chemical blowing agents (CBAs) to the market under the brand name nCore™.

For more details on Americhem unveils new line of chemical blowing agents click here

Sumitomo to turn Wiehe facility into all-electric IMM manufacturing base; invest EUR 50 mln in long term

Japanese-German injection molding manufacturer, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery GmbH, has announced that its Wiehe, Germany based production facility will become a major manufacturing base forr all-electric injection moulding machines within Sumitomo Heavy Industries.

For more details on Sumitomo to turn Wiehe facility into all-electric IMM manufacturing base; invest EUR 50 mln in long term click here

Oman's PET producer OCTAL changes supply equations

Global producer of PET resins, OCTAL Petrochemicals (Oman) has greatly changed the PET supply equation in the region merely five months after it opened its US$350 mln integrated PET resin and clear riigid sheet production facility in January this year.

For more details on Oman's PET producer OCTAL changes supply equations click here

Perstorp to up prices for TMP and Neo

Effective July 1st, 2009 or as existing contracts permit Perstorp will increase the price for Trimethylolpropane (TMP) by EUR 100/MT in Europe, 7 c/lb in North America and USD 150/MT in all other markkets.

For more details on Perstorp to up prices for TMP and Neo click here

BASF to mothball TMP plant in Ludwigshafen; to cooperate with Italy's F.A.R.

BASF and F.A.R. Fabbrica Adesivi Resine S.p.a (F.A.R.), Cologno Monzese, Italy, have agreed to cooperate for the production, marketing and sale of the polyalcohol trimethylolpropane (TMP) amid tough mmarket.

For more details on BASF to mothball TMP plant in Ludwigshafen; to cooperate with Italy's F.A.R. click here

Gloucester Engineering bags Cast Stretch Line order from Malaysia's Scientex Berhad

Leading supplier of plastics extrusion machinery Gloucester Engineering announced they have received an order from Scientex Packaging Film Sdn Bhd (Malaysia) for the purchase of their second 4000mm, 77-Layer Cast Stretch Film Line for its Pulau Indah Cast Stretch Facility in Malaysia.

For more details on Gloucester Engineering bags Cast Stretch Line order from Malaysia's Scientex Berhad click here

ExxonMobil Chemical unveils three new elastomer grades for films and polymer modifications

ExxonMobil Chemical has introduced three new grades of Vistamaxx™ specialty elastomers that are said to exhibit a very low gel count, making them ideal for high performance film and fiber applicationss.

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Chemical production in Azerbaijan 78% lower than last year

Chemical production in Azerbaijan was 78% lower at the end of April 2009 as compared with end-April 2008. Output between January and April 2009 was down by AZN 18.2 mln (around EUR 16 mln). Azerbaijann is currently under the strain of a global recession despite its status as an oil-producing state.

For more details on Chemical production in Azerbaijan 78% lower than last year click here

Mitsubishi to invest US$1.5 bln in Indonesia’s petrochemical industry

Mitsubishi plans to build a coal-based petrochemical factory at an investment outlay of US$1.5 billion in East Kalimantan’s petrochemical industry. Feasibility studies have been completed on the consttruction of the factory, and the company awaits approval from government to provide support facilities like infrastructure and tax incentives to ensure continuity in the factory`s operation.

For more details on Mitsubishi to invest US$1.5 bln in Indonesia’s petrochemical industry click here

UN official suggests end of single-use plastic bags

Single use plastic use bags are the second most common form of litter after cigarette butts in USA. Top environmental official of the United Nations' has suggested ban of single-use plastic bags. Desppite increasing recycling of bags in the United States, an estimated 90 billion thin bags a year remain unrecycled.

For more details on UN official suggests end of single-use plastic bags click here

Dow opens 120,000 tpa propylene glycol facility - world's largest

Dow Chemical Company has commenced production at a glycol ethers plant in Zhangjiagang, East China. With 120,000 tpa capacity of propylene glycol, the plant houses the world's largest production facillity of propylene glycol.

For more details on Dow opens 120,000 tpa propylene glycol facility - world's largest click here

EU consortium launch project to develop efficient and sustainable processes in chemical industry

"F3 Factory", an EU-funded project, for the development of more efficient and sustainable processes in the chemical industry, was recently launched by a consortium of leading European chemical companiies, research centers and universities.

For more details on EU consortium launch project to develop efficient and sustainable processes in chemical industry click here

ENGEL puts forward new wear protection system for screws

Plastics with modified characteristics play an increasingly important role in the industry. Mineral additives or glass fibres in particular are very demanding on the wear resilience of the plasticisinng components.

For more details on ENGEL puts forward new wear protection system for screws click here

RTP unveils all-polymeric wear additive compounds for improved plastic-on-plastic performance

Global custom engineered thermoplastic compounder RTP Company recently commercialized a new line of all-polymeric wear additive (APWA) compounds offering improved wear resistance. The materials are frree of particulate or fluid additives and provide excellent plastic-on-plastic performance without sacrificing properties inherent to the host resin.

For more details on RTP unveils all-polymeric wear additive compounds for improved plastic-on-plastic performance click here

World premier unveiled by MAGPLASTIC ASIA PVT LTD

Blow-moulding specialist Magplastic Asia unveiled its new machine and introduced its mould design & production facility at this year's PLASTINDIA exhibition, enabling new standards of efficiency in liinear technology to be reached.

For more details on World premier unveiled by MAGPLASTIC ASIA PVT LTD click here

Sumitomo-Demag to launch new all-electric variant type

Germany-based Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Plastics Machinery GmbH, the Japanese/German manufacturer of injection moulding machines is about to launch its IntElect all-electric injection moulding machine of the new 'Smart' configuration level.

For more details on Sumitomo-Demag to launch new all-electric variant type click here

New technology facilitates superior adhesion for inert and low-surface energy polymers

UK's Oxford Advanced Surfaces Group Plc (OAS), the advanced materials company, has developed a new technology that promotes superior adhesion with a wide range of industrial epoxy adhesives. The Onto®® adhesion promoter can increase adhesion to materials such as polyimides and PET polymers where epoxy adhesives on their own fail to achieve satisfactory bonding.

For more details on New technology facilitates superior adhesion for inert and low-surface energy polymers click here

New technology facilitates superior adhesion for inert and low-surface energy polymers

UK's Oxford Advanced Surfaces Group Plc (OAS), the advanced materials company, has developed a new technology that promotes superior adhesion with a wide range of industrial epoxy adhesives. The Onto®® adhesion promoter can increase adhesion to materials such as polyimides and PET polymers where epoxy adhesives on their own fail to achieve satisfactory bonding.

For more details on New technology facilitates superior adhesion for inert and low-surface energy polymers click here

Arkema increases the price of its dioctyl phthalate plasticizer

Arkema announces a EUR50/ton increase in the price of its Garbeflex® DOP plasticizer due to significant hike in raw material costs since the beginning of the year. Marketed under the tradename Garbefllex® DOP, this di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate plasticizer is used primarily in the manufacture of flexible PVC, which has wide-ranging applications from cable to floor covering to flexible film.

For more details on Arkema increases the price of its dioctyl phthalate plasticizer click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended June 8, 2009

CRUDE OIL
At the end of the week of June 8, 2009, crude futures have retreated to US$68, after surging past US$70 midweek- to 6 month highs after release of a report indicating better-than-expected improvement in US jobs scenario.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended June 8, 2009 click here

Kuokuang’s plan to build industrial park on reclaimed land to undergo second-stage EIA

An Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) committee has arrived at a decision that Kuokuang Petrochemical Technology Co’s plan to build an industrial park on reclaimed land in Changhua County nneeds to undergo a more thorough environmental impact assessment (EIA).

For more details on Kuokuang’s plan to build industrial park on reclaimed land to undergo second-stage EIA click here

Cosmo Oil, Hyundai Oilbank in JV for paraxylene plant

In a bid to target growing petrochemicals demand in China, Cosmo Oil Co and South Korea's Hyundai Oilbank plan to form a joint venture to build the world's biggest paraxylene-making facility at Hyundaai's Daesan refinery.

For more details on Cosmo Oil, Hyundai Oilbank in JV for paraxylene plant click here

Plastics in Pressure Pipes

HDPE pressure pipes have been in use in Europe for decades and there are new grades of materials from companies such as SABIC, but the construction industry is very conservative and testing must be exxtensive before a new product is adopted.

For more details on Plastics in Pressure Pipes click here

Korean joint venture sets production of MMA and MAA underway

Mitsubishi Rayon recently announced that Daesan MMA Corp., a member of the Mitsubishi Rayon Group, commenced commercial production of methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer and methacrylic acid (MAA) monommer in May.

For more details on Korean joint venture sets production of MMA and MAA underway click here

SABIC-IP bags Dutch Responsible Care Award for upcycling discarded PET bottles

The Association of the Dutch Chemical Industry (VNCI), recently presented SABIC Innovative Plastics with the Responsible Care Award 2009 for its efforts in developing a polybutylene terephtalate (PBT)) based product portfolio using discarded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, usually found in disposable materials like drinking bottles.

For more details on SABIC-IP bags Dutch Responsible Care Award for upcycling discarded PET bottles click here

LANXESS underpins BRIC strategy with two acquisitions in Asia

Specialty chemicals group LANXESS AG is underpinning its long-term growth strategy in the BRIC countries with two acquisitions in Asia. LANXESS subsidiary LANXESS India Private Ltd will acquire the chhemical businesses and assets of stock market listed Indian company Gwalior Chemical Industries Ltd for EUR 82.

For more details on LANXESS underpins BRIC strategy with two acquisitions in Asia click here

OrthoLite launches bio-based open cell foam insoles for performance footwear

OrthoLite (USA), a leading supplier of open cell foam insoles in the performance footwear category, recently launched its first bio-based offering, Eco Series OrthoLite, in response to an increasing ddemand for environmentally conscious consumer products.

For more details on OrthoLite launches bio-based open cell foam insoles for performance footwear click here

Eastman to increase prices of NPG Glycol and Isophthalic Acid

Eastman Chemical Company has announced to increase prices of Eastman™ NPG Glycol and Eastman™ Isophthalic Acid effective July 1, or as contracts allow, due to continued escalations in raw materials annd ongoing inadequate margins.

For more details on Eastman to increase prices of NPG Glycol and Isophthalic Acid click here

Italian foodstore chain turns to completely biodegradable bags based on Novamont's Mater-Bi

Italian foodstore chain Unicoop Florence has replaced the traditional polyethylene bags in all its 98 outlets by completely biodegradable and compostable bags made of Mater-Bi, a family of bioplasticss developed by Novamont.

For more details on Italian foodstore chain turns to completely biodegradable bags based on Novamont's Mater-Bi click here

ENGEL Symposium witnesses 2000 plus visitors underlining innovations in difficult times

ENGEL Symposium 09, held on May 27 - 28 in St. Valentin, witnessed some 2,000 guests from 45 countries signifying the importance of innovations in injection molding industry amid the current trying ecconomic times.

For more details on ENGEL Symposium witnesses 2000 plus visitors underlining innovations in difficult times click here

Solvay Indupa concluded US$150 mln expansion project

Solvay Indupa, a subsidiary of Belgian chemical group Solvay, has concluded expansion project at an outlay of US$150 mln at its Santo André plant in Brazil's São Paulo state. The project has aided in increasing production capacity of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) to 300,000 tpa, chloralkali and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

For more details on Solvay Indupa concluded US$150 mln expansion project click here

BCPL awards contracts for license and basic engineering to Lummus Technology

Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited has awarded contracts for the license and basic engineering of two new chemical plants to Lummus Technology. BCPL's 220,000 tpa ethylene plant will utilize Lummmus Technology's proprietary ethylene technology.

For more details on BCPL awards contracts for license and basic engineering to Lummus Technology click here

US demand for fluoropolymers to rise 4.5% pa to US$1.7 billion in 2013

US demand for fluoropolymers will rise 4.5 percent per year to $1.7 billion in 2013 as per Reportlinker.com. Gains will represent an acceleration from the 1998-2008 decade, during which the fluoropolyymer market was hampered by weakness in the manufacturing sector.

For more details on US demand for fluoropolymers to rise 4.5% pa to US$1.7 billion in 2013 click here

SIIG to offer 50% in subsidiary by IPO

Saudi Industrial Investment group (SIIG) plans to launch an initial public offering (IPO) from July 18-24 for 50% of its subsidiary Saudi National Petrochemical Company (Petrochem). 50% of the companyy will represent 240 mln sharesoffered at US$2.

For more details on SIIG to offer 50% in subsidiary by IPO click here

BASF adds Basel to European operation

BASF plans to locate its European business unit for additives, global units for technology management, and the restructured pigment business at the former headquarters of Ciba Holding in Basel. A new business centre is being established for Switzerland in Basel, serving as platform for sales, finance and personnel functions; along with BASF research centre focusing on plastics, coatings and paper.

For more details on BASF adds Basel to European operation click here

Group wants Formosa’s plant in Yunlin to suspend operations immediately

A sub-group of the Yunlin County Council wants Formosa Plastics Group’s (FPG) Sixth Naphtha Cracking Plant in Mailiao, Yunlin to suspend operations immediately. The reason cited for this demand is to prevent locals from being further inflicted with cancer-causing air pollution from the plant in operation since 1999.

For more details on Group wants Formosa’s plant in Yunlin to suspend operations immediately click here

QAPCO awards EPC contract for LDPE plant to Uhde

Uhde, a part of ThyssenKrupp Group, has been awarded a lump-sum turnkey contract worth US$550 mln by Qatar Petrochemical Co. (QAPCO), a subsidiary of Industries Qatar and Total Petrochemicals of Francce, to build a 300,000 tpa low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plant within the scope of its LDPE-3 project.

For more details on QAPCO awards EPC contract for LDPE plant to Uhde click here

KraussMaffei invests in China & Japan to expand in PUR processing machinery market

Plastics processing machinery manufacturer KraussMaffei has boosted capacity in Okazaki/Japan and Shanghai/China as it continues to build a strong presence in the growing markets for PUR processing maachinery in both countries.

For more details on KraussMaffei invests in China & Japan to expand in PUR processing machinery market click here

Huntsman announces titanium dioxide price increases in Asia Pacific

The Pigments division of Huntsman Corporation recently announced that it will increase prices of all titanium dioxide pigments sold in Asia Pacific by US$100/MT effective from 1st July 2009 or as appllicable contracts allow.

For more details on Huntsman announces titanium dioxide price increases in Asia Pacific click here

New advances in pressure sensitive adhesives offers cost savings, flexibility to tape manufacturers

Kraton Polymers LLC (USA), a leading global producer of engineered polymers, announces new advances in pressure sensitive adhesives for the tape market. According to the company, it is now possible too blend Kraton styrene-isoprene-butadiene-styrene (SIBS) and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) polymers with rosin ester tackifying resins.

For more details on New advances in pressure sensitive adhesives offers cost savings, flexibility to tape manufacturers click here

Estane® Engineered Polymers reactivates previously discontinued TPU Series

The Estane® Engineered Polymers business of The Lubrizol Corporation announced the reactivation of Pellethane® 2102 thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) which were discontinued due to concerns about raww material availability.

For more details on Estane® Engineered Polymers reactivates previously discontinued TPU Series click here

BASF to up prices for butanediol and derivatives in North America

Effective July 1, 2009, or as contracts allow, BASF, the world's leading producer of butanediol and its derivatives, will increase its off-list prices in the United States, Canada and Mexico by US$0.003 per pound for 1,4 Butanediol (BDO), Tetrahydrofuran (THF), PolyTHF® Poly(tetramethylene ether)glycol, gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) and N-Methylpyrrolidone (NMP).

For more details on BASF to up prices for butanediol and derivatives in North America click here

PetroChina to acquire Keppel's entire stake in Singapore Petroleum Company

PetroChina, one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world, recently entered into a conditional agreement with Keppel Corporation Limited to buy its entire 45.51% stake in Singapore Petroleum CCompany Limited (SPC) for approximately US$1.

For more details on PetroChina to acquire Keppel's entire stake in Singapore Petroleum Company click here

May 2009 ethylene output dips in Japan

Ethylene output in Japan in May 2009 totalled 577,600 tons as compared with 594,500 tons in May 2008 as per the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, dipping by 2.8% as compared to May 2008 despitee this year’s lighter maintenance shutdown schedule.

For more details on May 2009 ethylene output dips in Japan click here

Chengdu Industry Investment to finance CNPC’s Sichuan ethylene project by bond issue

China’s state-owned investment enterprise Chengdu Industry Investment Group Co. Ltd. has started issuing seven-year corporate bonds worth RMB 1.5 bln, at a coupon rate of 5.08%. The issuer has the opttion to raise the rate by up to 100 basis points at the end of the fifth year.

For more details on Chengdu Industry Investment to finance CNPC’s Sichuan ethylene project by bond issue click here

Polypropylene prices moving up in Europe

Polypropylene (PP) prices are rising in Europe this month on higher feedstock costs that lead to a further reduction in margins, according to ICIS. The June propylene contract is now fully establishedd at €565/ton ($796/ton), up by €45/ton from May and by €110/ton since February.

For more details on Polypropylene prices moving up in Europe click here

Crude oil dips after swelling to 6 month highs on better-than-expected US jobs report

Crude futures have retreated to US$68 after surging past US$70- at 6 month highs after release of a report indicating better-than- expected improvement in US jobs scenario. The latest employment reporrt is an indication of the improving health of the US economy.

For more details on Crude oil dips after swelling to 6 month highs on better-than-expected US jobs report click here

KPC settles Aug 09-July 10 deal at US$12/ton premium

Kuwait Petroleum Corp (KPC) has concluded a deal for term naphtha for August 2009 to July 2010 about 4 dollars/ton lower than its initial offer on FOB basis. Two buyers in Asia have bought the materiaal at a premium of US$12/ton to Middle East quotes from Asia's second-largest term naphtha exporter.

For more details on KPC settles Aug 09-July 10 deal at US$12/ton premium click here

Time Technoplast and Schoeller Arca Systems announce JV in materials handling systems

Time Technoplast Ltd., (TimeTech), a leading technology driven polymer manufacturer announces a joint venture with Netherland headquartered Schoeller Arca Systems (SAS) to introduce a wide range of pllastic Returnable Packaging (RTP) and material handling solutions.

For more details on Time Technoplast and Schoeller Arca Systems announce JV in materials handling systems click here

China XD Plastics receives five product certifications for its newly launched products

China XD Plastics Company Ltd., the largest Chinese manufacturer of modified plastics primarily for use in automotive applications, recently announced receiving five product certifications from the FAAW Group Corporation, one of the leading automobile manufacturers and vanguard of automobile industry in China during the first quarter of 2009.

For more details on China XD Plastics receives five product certifications for its newly launched products click here

US-based Nypro to shut Oregon plant by November end

Nypro Oregon Inc., a part of US-based injection moulding company Nypro Inc., will shut its Corvallis plant based in Oregon by November end. The company which has more than 60 workers at the plant moldds plastic products for diverse markets including medical, electronics and other consumer markets.

For more details on US-based Nypro to shut Oregon plant by November end click here

Husky launches new temperature controller for two to 24 zones

Husky Injection Molding Systems recently expanded its line of Altanium® temperature controllers with the introduction of Altanium Neo2™ controllers. On display at the Husky booth (S36009) at NPE 2009 (Chicago, June 22 - 26), Altanium Neo2 is designed on a platform to provide two to 24 zones of control and is equipped with 15 amps per zone, making it flexible enough to handle a wide variety of applications.

For more details on Husky launches new temperature controller for two to 24 zones click here

Sustainable innovation in plastic boxes unveiled for fruits and meat products

SOL Embalagens, one of the leading plastic processing companies in Brazil, and Braskem, Latin America's leading petrochem company, has developed and patented a new concept of disposable boxes. It is aan easy-to-assemble, 100% polypropylene box that offers excellent cooling and high durability, allowing reutilization with easy cleanliness for fruits and meat products market.

For more details on Sustainable innovation in plastic boxes unveiled for fruits and meat products click here

BASF announces scope of Basel site following Ciba Acquisition

Following the acquisition of Ciba Holding AG in April, BASF Group has decided that its European business unit for plastic additives and the global units for technology management and the restructuringg of the pigment business will be located at the former headquarters of Ciba Holding AG in Basel (Switzerland).

For more details on BASF announces scope of Basel site following Ciba Acquisition click here

Brückner achieves 500 plus reference for Biofilm's Mexican BOPP film line

The Colombian film producer Biofilm S.A. and Brückner Maschinenbau have successfully crowned their latest joint project: Biofilm's BOPP film production line in Altamira, Mexico, is now running at a coonstant speed of 525 m/min with a film thickness of up to 17 µm.

For more details on Brückner achieves 500 plus reference for Biofilm's Mexican BOPP film line click here

LINPAC Packaging mulls starting second plant in CEE region

UK-based packaging solutions provider, LINPAC Packaging is currently evaluating setting up a food packaging plant in Belarus to serve Central and Eastern Europe. According to the company, the growing food packaging market in CEE region has triggered this assessment project.

For more details on LINPAC Packaging mulls starting second plant in CEE region click here

Bayer MaterialScience starts new production line for waterborne PU dispersions

Bayer MaterialScience AG has invested EUR 2.3 mln in a new production line for its Baycusan® range of waterborne polyurethane dispersions (PUD) for the cosmetics and medical segments. The new facilityy, which forms part of the PUD plant at the Dormagen CHEMPARK, 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 MaterialScience starts new production line for waterborne PU dispersions click here