Qatar’s first condensate refinery comes onstream: production commences at Laffan Refinery

Qatar has started production at the country’s first condensate refinery as Qatargas production reached commercial quantities and specifications at the Laffan Refinery. The new refinery has a total prrocessing capacity of 146,000 barrels per stream day (BPSD).

For more details on Qatar’s first condensate refinery comes onstream: production commences at Laffan Refinery click here

Solvay to sell entire pharmaceutical business to Abbott, to invest in plastics

Solvay is to close a deal to sell its entire pharmaceutical business to Abbott for €5.2 bln in Q1-2010. The deal is subject to approval by the relevant competition authorities. Money raised by the salle will be invested in strategic projects in chemicals and plastics.

For more details on Solvay to sell entire pharmaceutical business to Abbott, to invest in plastics click here

Saudi Ethylene and Polyethylene Co plans to restart its 400,000 tpa LDPE plant

Saudi Ethylene and Polyethylene Co (SEPC) plans to restart its 400,000 tpa low density polyethylene (LDPE) plant at Al-Jubail, Saudi Arabia. The unscheduled shutdown that was caused by technical glitcches a fortnight ago, is expected to be called off by mid-October.

For more details on Saudi Ethylene and Polyethylene Co plans to restart its 400,000 tpa LDPE plant click here

Haldia’s Supermax project viable despite increased cost

Haldia Petrochem’s Supermax project comprises of augmentation of naphtha cracking capacity from 520,000 tons to 675,000 tpa. HPL will see a 45 day shutdown starting in October to facilitate synchronissing of the project with the existing operations.

For more details on Haldia’s Supermax project viable despite increased cost click here

ADNOC anticipates lower premiums for Jan-Dec naphtha

Added volumes of exports from India in September, continuous spot exports from Kuwait and unusual spot exports for October lifting from China's WEPEC and Saudi Aramco have eased naphtha supplies in Assia.

For more details on ADNOC anticipates lower premiums for Jan-Dec naphtha click here

World's first thermoplastic bridges that can support over 70 tons

The world’s first known bridge to support loads in excess of 70 tons has been unveiled. A high-load thermoplastic bridge designed from 100% recycled plastic at Fort Bragg, has been unveiled by Axion IInternational Holdings, Inc.

For more details on World's first thermoplastic bridges that can support over 70 tons click here

France orders change of 6500 China made valves at petrochem plants at Gonfreville, La Mede refinery

Non-conformance with current standards has compelled French authorities to order replacement of 6,500 valves made in China for the French petrochemical and refining industries. Total is replacing the valves it discovered that did not conform to norms at its petrochemical plant at Gonfreville and at its La Mede refinery.

For more details on France orders change of 6500 China made valves at petrochem plants at Gonfreville, La Mede refinery click here

BASF, Sinopec to embark upon petrochemical expansion at Nanjing

BASF AG and Sinopec (China Petroleum & Chemical Corp.) plan to embark upon plans to expand its petrochemical venture in Nanjing, East China. At an investment outlay of US$1.4 bln, steam cracker capaciity will be expanded to 740,000 tpa from 600,000.

For more details on BASF, Sinopec to embark upon petrochemical expansion at Nanjing click here

Oil prices rise on nuclear tensions

Oil prices rose on Friday to US$66.4 a barrel on the NYMEX, while in London, Brent crude rose to US$65.41. This rise was supported by evidence of improving consumer sentiment and heightened tension arround Iran's nuclear program.

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PlastIndia Foundation Knowledge Centre Launched

Plastindia Foundation has announced the ground breaking ceremony (Bhoomi Pujan) of the much awaited Plastindia Foundation Knowledge Center on Sept 28, 2009. The center will be located in Dungara, GIDCC on the Vapi Silvassa Road.

For more details on PlastIndia Foundation Knowledge Centre Launched click here

Borealis’ BorSafe™ PE100 pipes deliver disruption-free water supply to Sicilian airport

Produced by Borealis, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, BorSafe™ HE3490-LS was selected for the infrastructure redesign at Palermo International Airport on the islannd of Sicily.

For more details on Borealis’ BorSafe™ PE100 pipes deliver disruption-free water supply to Sicilian airport click here

CNPC commences production at Dushanzi petrochemical complex

China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) has commenced operation at Dushanzi petrochemical complex. The complex has a refinery with an annual processing capacity of 10 mln tons and an ethylene facility caapable of producing 1 mln tpa.

For more details on CNPC commences production at Dushanzi petrochemical complex click here

IRPC estimates revenues of 180 bln baht on strong petrochemical demand from China

Thailand’s IRPC Plc expects to outdo its previous target for the year with sales revenues of 180 billion baht on strong petrochemical demand from China. Thailand's leading petrochemical producer and ooil refiner predicts revenue to fall by 26% this year from last years’ levels.

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A slowdown in petrochemical growth expected as economies recover unsteadily

The collapse of the global petrochemical industry has brought about a major shift in behaviour. According to ICB, Central banks kept interest rates low to encourage consumption, in the belief that infflation was under control.

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Oil Refineries Ltd proposes to conclude merger with Carmel Olefins Ltd by year end

Israel’s largest oil refiner - Oil Refineries Ltd (ORL) proposes to conclude its merger with Carmel Olefins Ltd by year end. ORL and Israel Petrochemical Enterprises hold equal half shares in Carmel. ORL plans to acquire complete stake in exchange shares in ORL to Israel Petrochemical.

For more details on Oil Refineries Ltd proposes to conclude merger with Carmel Olefins Ltd by year end click here

Polymer gel plug prevents movement of stones during kidney stone treatments

Pluromed Inc. has received approval from the US Food & Drug Administration for its Backstop polymer gel plug, used during lithotripsy kidney stone treatments that use laser or other energy sources to break up the stones.

For more details on Polymer gel plug prevents movement of stones during kidney stone treatments click here

Glass fiber for medical implants

HPB™ - a new glass fiber reinforcement specially developed for the production of long-term implant applications (of over 30 days) has been introduced by the American company AGY. HPB™ is produced usiing a proprietary glass processing technology can be used with a wide range of thermoplastics including polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI) and polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

For more details on Glass fiber for medical implants click here

Novel processes for propylene production

The two most important olefins ethylene and propylene are co-produced in steam crackers and refineries. The production ratio is relative and is determined by feedstock used and severity of the 'crackiing'.

For more details on Novel processes for propylene production click here

SABIC prepares to commence LDPE production at Wilton

SABIC UK Petrochemicals is preparing to commence production at its new Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) plant at Wilton in the face of the most severe economic downturns. Commissioning work on the new multi-million pound facility has progressed as planned with commercial production slated to commence by the end of September.

For more details on SABIC prepares to commence LDPE production at Wilton click here

A new single-component resin system for the aerospace industry

A newly developed polyaryl ether amide resin system, particularly suitable for use in structural components, to be sold under the brand name CALIDUR® will be launched shortly by Evonik Industries. Thiis single-component system is particularly suitable for applications in aircraft manufacturing.

For more details on A new single-component resin system for the aerospace industry click here

Exxon to scale up investment in Asia

Exxon Mobil Corp. has decided to scale up investments in Asian plants to satiate estimated increase in demand from China and India. ExxonMobil's new plant in Fujian, China, has commenced production thhis year.

For more details on Exxon to scale up investment in Asia click here

IOC ups capex on increased project cost of Paradip refinery, Panipat naphtha cracker, Koyali refinery

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has up-revised its capital expenditure by 22% to Rs 53,000 crore for the Eleventh Plan Period (2007-12). Of this, the company will invest Rs 37,220 crore in its refining aand marketing segment, Rs 14,000 crore in petrochemicals and Rs 1,775 crore in exploration and production.

For more details on IOC ups capex on increased project cost of Paradip refinery, Panipat naphtha cracker, Koyali refinery click here

New PP compounds with increased scratch resistance and surface properties

Hostacom compounded polypropylene (PP) resins by LyondellBasell help the automotive industry address their needs for mechanical and safety properties, long service life, cost/performance balance and aa superior, low-gloss surface finish.

For more details on New PP compounds with increased scratch resistance and surface properties click here

Reliance offers second naphtha cargo of 75000 tons for October

Reliance Industries has offered its second cargo of 75,000 tons of naphtha for October, augmenting total monthly exports to 150,000 tons. 75,000 tons was sold for mid-October lifting to Itochu at a prremium of US$19/ton to Middle East quotes, on a free-on-board (FOB) basis.

For more details on Reliance offers second naphtha cargo of 75000 tons for October click here

Oil prices dip by 4% on reports of increasing crude oil inventories

Light sweet crude for November fell to US$69 on the Nymex. A greater than expected increase in crude oil stocks has pushed up oil prices by 4%. As per data released by the Energy Information Administrration, commercial crude oil inventories in USA increased by 2.

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Impending holiday break slows down petrochemical trading activities in Asia

Trading in Asia has significantly slowed, amid price dips as China prepares for its week long National Holidays from 1-8 October. A bearish market outlook indicates to dim prospects of demand recoveryy when the Chinese return in the second week of October.

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Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 21, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices continue to linger above US$70 in New York in the week of September 21, 2009, as the dollar rebound, despite demand worries thaat weigh on the market.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 21, 2009 click here

Vote by Port of South Louisiana to buy land for its first facility in St. Charles Parish

The Port of Louisiana’s board is to vote to buy a 40 acre property adjacent to the Dow Chemical plant in Taft from the Triche family. This acquisition will provide the Port of South Louisiana with itss first facility in St.

For more details on Vote by Port of South Louisiana to buy land for its first facility in St. Charles Parish click here

Air Products JV outfit inks agreement to build an air separation unit for PetroChina

An Air Products ‘s joint venture company based in Sichuan has inked an agreement to build an air separation unit (ASU) for PetroChina Co Ltd. to be on-stream in late 2011. The ASU will supply oxygen aand nitrogen to PetroChina's main refinery and ethylene complex in Sichuan, as well as produce liquid products for Air Products' merchant gases customers in the Chengdu area.

For more details on Air Products JV outfit inks agreement to build an air separation unit for PetroChina click here

Arkema’s 400 ton carbon nano plant in France to start production in 2011

Arkema’s 400 ton is to embark on pilot production at its carbon nano plant in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region in France. Start up is estimated in 2011 and this will be the first operation of its kind to make CNTs using a carbon vapour deposition process, entirely using a bio-sourced raw material – in this case ethylene derived from corn.

For more details on Arkema’s 400 ton carbon nano plant in France to start production in 2011 click here

LyondellBasell restarts 320,000 tpa low density polyethylene plant in France

LyondellBasell’s LDPE plant at AUbette, France was shuttered due to technical glitches over the weekend of 12-13 September. The company has restarted its 320,000 tpa low density polyethylene (LDPE) pllant, where current levels of inventories are low, particularly for LDPE.

For more details on LyondellBasell restarts 320,000 tpa low density polyethylene plant in France click here

PetroChina commences formal operations at Dushanzi refinery and petrochemical plant

PetroChina has started formal operations at the Dushanzi refinery and petrochemical plant, including a 10 mln tpa refinery and a 1 mln tpa ethylene production facility. The facility mainly processes hhigh sulfur crude from Kazakhstan pumped via a Kazakhstan-China pipeline.

For more details on PetroChina commences formal operations at Dushanzi refinery and petrochemical plant click here

News of fall in August crude consumption in China pulls down oil prices to US$70

News that China's crude consumption has fallen 5.4% in August from July has pulled down oil prices to US$70/barrel levels. Benchmark crude for October delivery settled at US$70.30 on the Nymex, after falling to US$69.

For more details on News of fall in August crude consumption in China pulls down oil prices to US$70 click here

High performance polyolefin for gravity pipe applications

Borealis continues with its efforts to further increase the acceptance and expansion of polypropylene in the gravity pipe market with the launch of two new polypropylene grades: BorECO BA2000 and BorEECO BA415E.

For more details on High performance polyolefin for gravity pipe applications click here

Russian state-run bank offers credit line to Tobolsk-Polymer LLC

Russia’s state run bank -Vnesheconombank, has opened a US$153 mln credit line for Tobolsk-Polymer LLC, a subsidiary of SIBUR Holding, Russia's largest petrochemical company. The funds will be used to finance the construction of a polypropylene production complex in Tobolsk (Tyumen region) with a capacity of 500,000 tpa.

For more details on Russian state-run bank offers credit line to Tobolsk-Polymer LLC click here

Nylon demand growth slowing down in Europe and North America, shifting to China

The global trends of the nylon markets reflect slower demand growth shifting toward China and away from Europe and North America. Additionally, other lower cost materials compete with nylon, includingg polypropylene and polyester.

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High barrier PET bottle for wine

French wine producer Boisset Family Estate has chosen a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle with improved barrier properties to package its wine for the Beaujolais Nouveau 2008 wine. The PET bottlle is produced by Constar International with it’s MonOxbar barrier technology allows the sensitive wine to be packaged in lightweight PET rather than glass, saving fuel, cutting freight costs and reducing the carbon footprint, while protecting the subtle nuances in flavor, aroma, and color.

For more details on High barrier PET bottle for wine click here

Kuwait’s US$6 bln joint venture refinery in Vietnam planned on track

Kuwait plans to complete its US$6 bln joint venture refinery in Vietnam as planned on track. The US$6 bln Nghi Son petrochemical complex is the largest project of its type in Vietnam. It will be operaational in 2013 and will have a refining capacity of 200,000 bpd Kuwait Petroleum International (KPI), the international arm of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), established the joint venture in April 2008 with PetroVietnam, as well as Japanese firms Idemitsu Kosan Co.

For more details on Kuwait’s US$6 bln joint venture refinery in Vietnam planned on track click here

Dow inaugurates a new laboratory for Elastomers Business at its Freeport R&D facility

Dow Chemical Company (Dow) has inaugurated the opening of a new laboratory for the Elastomers Business to be located at Dow's Freeport R&D facility. It is used for the compounding, mixing, processing and testing of thermoset elastomers.

For more details on Dow inaugurates a new laboratory for Elastomers Business at its Freeport R&D facility click here

Feasibility study on 13 mln tons petrochemicals plant in China completed by Rosneft and CNPC

Rosneft and China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) have completed a feasibility study on the construction of a petrochemicals plant in China, reinforcing the possibility of building a petrocchemicals plant in China with capacity of 13 mln tons.

For more details on Feasibility study on 13 mln tons petrochemicals plant in China completed by Rosneft and CNPC click here

Exports at RIL’s Jamnagar SEZ surpass Rs 50,000 by March 2010

Reliance Industries’ (RIL) special economic zone (SEZ) in Jamnagar is expected to export goods worth at least Rs 50,000 crore by March 2010, and is to emerge as one of the largest SEZs in the country..

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Commercial launch of new line of metallocene linear low density polyethylene (mLLDPE) by LyondellBasell

LyondellBasell has commercially launched in North America, a new line of metallocene linear low density polyethylene (mLLDPE) resins which came on line earlier this year. LyondellBasell demonstrates iits commitment to provide products that drive superior performance while delivering value to its customers.

For more details on Commercial launch of new line of metallocene linear low density polyethylene (mLLDPE) by LyondellBasell click here

Philippine Government to endure loss of P2.5 bln on reversed order on tariff imposition on intermediate petrochemical resins

A court decision that reversed an executive order on the imposition of tariffs on intermediate petrochemical resins could result in loss for the Philippine Government amounting to an estimated P2.5 biillion in potential government revenues.

For more details on Philippine Government to endure loss of P2.5 bln on reversed order on tariff imposition on intermediate petrochemical resins click here

Ineos’ restarts operations at Lavera facility after repairs

Ineos’ Lavera facility in France had been shut due to a steam leak in early September. This facility has been restarted operations as the steam main is now operational and the units are progressively being brought on line.

For more details on Ineos’ restarts operations at Lavera facility after repairs click here

Taiwan’s prospect of Zero-tariff agreement for petrochemicals likely with China by year-end

The Taiwanese petrochemical industry is hoping for a zero-tariff agreement with China by the end of the year concurrently with China’s free trade agreement (FTA) with Association of South East Asian NNations in 2010.

For more details on Taiwan’s prospect of Zero-tariff agreement for petrochemicals likely with China by year-end click here

Strategic collaboration to advance carbon fiber reinforced composite materials technology for aerospace applications

Cytec Engineered Materials (CEM), a business unit of Cytec Industries Inc. and Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd. (MRC) have entered into a strategic business collaboration to advance carbon fiber reinforced composite materials technology.

For more details on Strategic collaboration to advance carbon fiber reinforced composite materials technology for aerospace applications click here

Radiation and materials technology combo provides UL yellow card coverage for electrical devices

Beam or Gamma rays post treatment technology, when combined with newly developed specialty compounds, provides full UL yellow card coverage for various electrical device and connector applications. SAABIC Innovative Plastics' has launched 4 grades of LNP Starflam specialty compounds.

For more details on Radiation and materials technology combo provides UL yellow card coverage for electrical devices click here

US demand for plastic packaging will continue to outpace paper in competing markets

US demand for plastic packaging will continue to outpace paper in markets where they compete, albeit more slowly as applications mature. The fastest market share increases for plastic will occur in peet food and soy beverage packaging, followed by protective packaging, foodservice and dairy products.

For more details on US demand for plastic packaging will continue to outpace paper in competing markets click here

Vizag petrochem project on hold: viability to be reevaluated after 6 months

Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL)’s planned refinery and petrochemical complex in Vishakhapatnam is on hold due to weak market conditions amid the global economic downturn; and will be re-evaluated only after six months.

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Unplanned shutdown of polypropylene unit in Litvinov by Unipetrol

UNIPETROL, a.s. has announced an unplanned shutdown of its steam cracker in Litvinov due to a technical issue. The plant will be shut for approximately 9 days starting from 19 September 2009. A techniical glitch at the polypropylene unit will effect the polyethylene units as well.

For more details on Unplanned shutdown of polypropylene unit in Litvinov by Unipetrol click here

Korea Kumho Petrochemical to build acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) compounding plant in China

In a bid to expand its presence in China as well as other markets in the region, Korea Kumho Petrochemical Co. plans to build an ABS compounding plant in China. This will be it’s seventh plant in Chinna, is slated for completion by 2010 and will serve primarily the automotive and electronics sector.

For more details on Korea Kumho Petrochemical to build acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) compounding plant in China click here

Teijin plans to increase the annual capacity of Biofront to 5,000 tons by fiscal 2011, and scale it further in the next decade.

Biofront, first developed in 2006 and launched in 2007, is described as the world’s first mass-produced stereocomplex PLA, made with plant-based Poly-L-lacticacid polymer (conventional polylacticacid polymer) and their enantiomer poly-D-lacticacid polymer.

For more details on Teijin plans to increase the annual capacity of Biofront to 5,000 tons by fiscal 2011, and scale it further in the next decade. click here

Teijin plans to increase the annual capacity of Biofront to 5,000 tons by fiscal 2011, and scale it further in the next decade.

Biofront, first developed in 2006 and launched in 2007, is described as the world’s first mass-produced stereocomplex PLA, made with plant-based Poly-L-lacticacid polymer (conventional polylacticacid polymer) and their enantiomer poly-D-lacticacid polymer.

For more details on Teijin plans to increase the annual capacity of Biofront to 5,000 tons by fiscal 2011, and scale it further in the next decade. click here

Teijin commences production of heat-resistant bioplastic in Japan

In a step that will enable it to begin development of a full-scale market, Teijin Ltd. has commenced production of its proprietary heat-resistant bioplastic Biofront at a demonstration plant in Matsuyyama, Japan.

For more details on Teijin commences production of heat-resistant bioplastic in Japan click here

New synthetic wood made from biodegradable thermoplastic material

A research team from the University of Stanford, USA, has announced the development of a synthetic substitute for wood; made from a biodegradable thermoplastic material i.e. hemp fiber reinforced polyyhydroxybutyrate (PHB).

For more details on New synthetic wood made from biodegradable thermoplastic material click here

Improved polyolefin/metal bonding for high performance hybrids

Plastic/metal hybrids components are more and more used by the automotive industry. It is the reason why the German firm Henkel AG & Co. KGaA has developed a new adhesive allowing to bond polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylenes like HDPE, LDPE to each other as well as to metals without the need for costly, time-consuming surface treatment.

For more details on Improved polyolefin/metal bonding for high performance hybrids click here

Ineos shutters operation at polystyrene facility at Breda

In a bid to improve profitability of its PS operations, Ineos Nova has shut down its 50,000 tpa polystyrene producing unit at Breda, The Netherlands. The company will continue with EPS and HPS producttion at Breda.

For more details on Ineos shutters operation at polystyrene facility at Breda click here

New PE polymer platform improves mechanical properties, long-term stability of hip/knee implants

DSM Biomedical has developed a new polyethylene polymer platform intended to improve the mechanical properties and long-term stability of hip and knee implants.
In 2007, DSM Biomedical commenced an R&D program focused on improving ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) use in artificial joints.

For more details on New PE polymer platform improves mechanical properties, long-term stability of hip/knee implants click here

Dammam 7 Petrochemicals signs agreement with Aker Solutions

Dammam 7 Petrochemicals has signed a programme management agreement with Aker Solutions for the Dammam 7 acrylic acid and acrylates complex to be built in the Jubail 2 Industrial area in Saudi Arabia..

For more details on Dammam 7 Petrochemicals signs agreement with Aker Solutions click here

Dow Chemical’s list of divestitures to become a more asset light business

Dow Chemical is continuing its series of divestitures as part of its effort to become a more asset light business. This will limit the company's reliance on raw materials and aid in paying the debt frrom its acquisition of Rohm & Haas.

For more details on Dow Chemical’s list of divestitures to become a more asset light business click here

High performance reinforcing agent for polyolefins to achieve greater weight reduction in automotibles

With the recent decision of the European Parliament setting CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars in the form of Regulation (EC) No 443/2009, weight reduction promises to become evven more imperative for the automotive industry.

For more details on High performance reinforcing agent for polyolefins to achieve greater weight reduction in automotibles click here

New materials to outperform other PTFE materials up to 40% on bearing performance measures

Quadrant’s range of enhanced PTFE materials available in full production sizes has been broadened with the addition of two new grades: Fluorosint HPV and Fluorosint MT-01. FDA compliant Fluorosint HPVV is a mica-filled high performance bearing grade that can deliver a pressure velocity (PV) performance improvement of more than 40 % over other PTFE materials according to in-house tests conducted by Quadrant.

For more details on New materials to outperform other PTFE materials up to 40% on bearing performance measures click here

Cereplast granted patent protection in USA for breakthrough Hybrid Resins®

Cereplast, Inc. has been granted patent protection for its breakthrough Cereplast Hybrid Resins® from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The USPTO Letter of Allowance describing paatent 10,506,418 adds to the company's growing intellectual property portfolio.

For more details on Cereplast granted patent protection in USA for breakthrough Hybrid Resins® click here

Ethylene spot prices in North East Asia dip below US$900

As demand from China weakens along with deteriorating derivative markets amid a supply surplus, ethylene spot prices have dipped below US$900/MT to 3 month lows. Further declines in key ethylene derrivatives have negatively impacted the markets, leading to a more than US$50/ton cut in prices this week.

For more details on Ethylene spot prices in North East Asia dip below US$900 click here

Prices inch up on more than expected dip in oil inventories

As per Energy Information Administration, last week, crude oil inventories have fallen by 4.7 million barrels - more than expected, pushing up oil prices. At 332.8 million barrels, US crude oil inventtories are above the upper boundary of the average range for this time of year.

For more details on Prices inch up on more than expected dip in oil inventories click here

Naphtha exports from India for October at 850,000 tons

As a delayed monsoon limps to normalcy, naphtha export from India for the month of October is at par with September volumes of 850,000 tons. Reliance’s spot exports for these two months have been 300,,000 tons each.

For more details on Naphtha exports from India for October at 850,000 tons click here

Polymer notes mulled by Reserve Bank of India

Reserve Bank of India plans to introduce polymer banknotes of with a life span 4 times that of normal currency notes that are tough to counterfeit. Initially, about 100 crore polymer notes of the denoomination of Rs 10 will be put into circulation.

For more details on Polymer notes mulled by Reserve Bank of India click here

SK Energy’s contract aids effortless operations at Vietnam’s first oil refinery

In a bid to ensure stable operation of Dung Quat - Vietnam’s first oil refinery, Korea’s SK Energy has inked a deal with Binh Son Ltd. Co. to provide operational and maintenance services. Binh Son is a subsidiary of Vietnam Oil and Gas Group responsible for running the refinery.

For more details on SK Energy’s contract aids effortless operations at Vietnam’s first oil refinery click here

Unexpected rise in US supplies pulls oil below US$71

An unexpected rise in crude supplies in USA has amplified concerns about weak consumer demand for oil, pulling down prices below US$71. Benchmark crude for October delivery dipped to US$70.5 on the NYYMEX and Brent crude rose in London to US$67.

For more details on Unexpected rise in US supplies pulls oil below US$71 click here

Stone laying at SCG-DOW HPPO plant in Thailand

The SCG-DOW Group, a joint venture between Dow Chemical Co and The Siam Cement Group (SCG), and Solvay Peroxythai Ltd. have laid the foundation stone at the hydrogen peroxide to propylene oxide (HPPO)) project site near Map Ta Phut, Thailand.

For more details on Stone laying at SCG-DOW HPPO plant in Thailand click here

Additional 50,000 tons spot naphtha offered for September by Kuwait Petroleum Corp

Kuwait Petroleum Corp (KPC) is considering selling an extra 50,000 tons of naphtha as spot cargo this month, taking September spot exports to at least 200,000 tons. This level is still lower than recoord-high levels of 300,000 tons in May as well as in July.

For more details on Additional 50,000 tons spot naphtha offered for September by Kuwait Petroleum Corp click here

Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical’s 1 mln tpa petrochemical reformer project into production

Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Co. Ltd has put its 1 mln tpa petrochemical reformer project into formal production. The project is considered to be a new aromatic hydrocarbon reformer facility, to booost crude oil processing capacity and improve the integration of refining and petrochemical facilities for greater economic efficiency.

For more details on Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical’s 1 mln tpa petrochemical reformer project into production click here

Polymer Chemie spins off plastics compounds business division

In a move aimed to create a clear distinction from the PVC Compounds business unit,

Polymer-Chemie has spun off its plastics compounds business division into a new and independent company, Polyblennd.

For more details on Polymer Chemie spins off plastics compounds business division click here

Refinery carriage capacity to be doubled at Bhatinda making it Asia's biggest petrochemical hub

HPCL-Mittal Energy Ltd (HMEL) plans to double carriage capacity to 18,000 tons of the Sri Guru Gobind Singh oil refinery's Gujarat-Bathinda pipeline, making it the biggest petrochemical hub in Asia. HHMEL is a joint venture between the state-owned Hindustan Petroleum Corp and Mittal Energy Investment of Singapore.

For more details on Refinery carriage capacity to be doubled at Bhatinda making it Asia's biggest petrochemical hub click here

LyondellBasell plans year end closure of Carrington LDPE plant

LyondellBasell Industries plans to shutter its low density polyethylene (LDPE) plant at Carrington by the end of 2009 as the plant is no longer economically viable. With a capacity of 185,000 tpa, thiis plant is one of the company’s smallest LDPE manufacturing sites and is unviable as current market conditions require economies of scale and low conversion costs.

For more details on LyondellBasell plans year end closure of Carrington LDPE plant click here

Dow plans to shift toward specialty chemicals, to close two styrenics units at Texas

As part of the shift toward becoming a specialty chemicals maker, Dow Chemical Co. plans to close two production units at Freeport, Texas by the end of the year. This decision will impact the styrene monomer and ethylbenzene production units at Texas, part of Dow’s basic chemicals arm.

For more details on Dow plans to shift toward specialty chemicals, to close two styrenics units at Texas click here

Formosa’s plan of petrochemical and oil refinery project in Vietnam gets government nod

Formosa Heavy Industries Group has received “an in-principle approval” from the government to build a US$12.47 bln petrochemical and oil refinery project in Vung Ang Economic Zone, Vietnam. While impllementing plans of steel complex and port projects worth US$7.

For more details on Formosa’s plan of petrochemical and oil refinery project in Vietnam gets government nod click here

Production commences at new Ethyl Benzene & Styrene Monomer plant in Kuwait

Commercial operations have commenced at The Kuwait Styrene Company's new Ethyl Benzene & Styrene Monomer production plant. The plant, to be operated as part of Greater Equate's integrated facility, haas a production capacity of 450,000 metric tpa of Styrene Monomer (SM) and is currently producing on-spec styrene monomer.

For more details on Production commences at new Ethyl Benzene & Styrene Monomer plant in Kuwait click here

Operations to commence at Qatofin’s LLDPE plant

Qatofin Co plans to start production at a 450,000 tpa linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) plant in November. The Qatofin plant, a petrochemical venture between Industries Qatar and Total SA, was scheduled to be completed this month, but start up has been delayed by a couple of months.

For more details on Operations to commence at Qatofin’s LLDPE plant click here

Indian Oil Corp expects 15% of total revenues from petrochemical sector in 3 years

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has planned investments of over Rs 20,000 crore in three world-scale plants and projects in the pipeline. The state owned oil major is implementing projects worth Rs 60,0000 crore, including over Rs 20,000 crore in petrochemical and refinery capacity expansion.

For more details on Indian Oil Corp expects 15% of total revenues from petrochemical sector in 3 years click here

Sasol reports 33% drop in full-year headline earnings, earnings for FY2010 to fall yoy

Petrochemicals group Sasol has reported that headline earnings per share for the year to end-June fell 33% to R25.42, hit by lower oil and product prices and a stronger rand to the US dollar. The comppany also expects earnings for financial year 2010 to fall year-on-year.

For more details on Sasol reports 33% drop in full-year headline earnings, earnings for FY2010 to fall yoy click here

LyondellBasell mulls stock offering to raise funds to exit bankruptcy protection

A sudden cash crunch at the beginning of the year had forced LyondellBasell to seek bankruptcy. To help the company exit bankruptcy protection, the bankrupt petrochem maker is mulling a stock offeringg to raise funds.

For more details on LyondellBasell mulls stock offering to raise funds to exit bankruptcy protection click here

Bid to gain control of trade unions could delay Haldia’s Supermax project

The bid to gain control of the trade unions might delay the Haldia Petrochemicals Limited's (HPL) efforts to expand its ethylene capacity under the Supermax Project which is already running behind schhedule.

For more details on Bid to gain control of trade unions could delay Haldia’s Supermax project click here

Downward revision of Russian ethylene and polymer capacity forecast

Owing to the effects of the financial crisis, much planned Russian capacity has been delayed or shelved, leading to a downward revision of Russian ethylene and polymer capacity forecast, as per a repoort by companies and markets.

For more details on Downward revision of Russian ethylene and polymer capacity forecast click here

Plastics production fails to show any output recovery in H1-09 in Ukraine

Ukrainian plastics production failed to show any recovery in output in H109 with the industry facing a domestic economic crisis and a collapse in export markets, as per a report by companies and markeets.

For more details on Plastics production fails to show any output recovery in H1-09 in Ukraine click here

Czech petrochemicals industry will be heavily influenced by economic trends in Germany

The Czech petrochemicals industry will be heavily influenced by economic trends in Germany, the country’s largest export market for petrochemicals-consuming industries, as per a report by companies annd market.

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Global equity markets weaken, dollar strengthens, oil prices fall

Oil prices slackened in Asian trade as the global equity markets weakened and the dollar regained some strength. New York's main contract, light sweet crude for October delivery dipped to US$68.4, whiile Brent North Sea crude for October delivery settled at US$67.

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Bid to pass a law in California to ban bisphenol A unsuccessful

A bid to pass a law banning bisphenol A (BPA) in California has been unsuccessful. The Toxics-Free Babies and Toddlers Act (Bill SB 797) was unable to secure the 41 ballots it needed to pass into law..

For more details on Bid to pass a law in California to ban bisphenol A unsuccessful click here

BPCL completes Kochi refinery expansion: resumes spot naphtha exports

Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) has completed its Kochi refinery expansion. With this restart, the Indian major is all set to restart spot naphtha exports, making it the first instance of this year. The 60,000 bpd crude distillation unit (CDU) unit at its Kochi refinery was shut in early April for maintenance and expansion, to augment capacity to the present 190,000 bpd.

For more details on BPCL completes Kochi refinery expansion: resumes spot naphtha exports click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 14, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices rose in the week of September 14, 2009 after a more than expected decline in US crude inventories, a weaker US dollar, OPEC's ddecision to maintain production levels and a new report stating that the slump in global oil demand will not be as bad as initially feared.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 14, 2009 click here

Formosa declares FM on HDPE film grades from Texas

Downstream equipment problems have compelled Formosa Plastics to declare force majeure (FM) on sales of high density polyethylene film grades from its 650,000 tpa Point Comfort facility in Texas. The malfunction at the Point Comfort plant occurred in the downstream material handling equipment that moves resin from the reactor to the point where it is shipped.

For more details on Formosa declares FM on HDPE film grades from Texas click here

MRPL, ONGC sell naphtha at a lower premium as tight supplies ease

As tight supply scenario eases, Asian naphtha cracks have been negatively impacted. Currently, crack spreads are at their lowest in two weeks at US$103/ton premium. India's MRPL and ONGC have realizedd lower premiums for naphtha sold this week, as a delayed monsoon could trigger increased naphtha exports from India.

For more details on MRPL, ONGC sell naphtha at a lower premium as tight supplies ease click here

Oman’s ORPC sells first light naphtha cargo from new petrochemical plant

Oman Refineries and Petrochemicals Co. (ORPC) has sold its first light naphtha cargo from its new petrochemical plant to Vitol at a small premium. The cargo of 30,000 cubic meters of the light fuel foor prompt Sept.

For more details on Oman’s ORPC sells first light naphtha cargo from new petrochemical plant click here

Nanotube-filled capsules could restore conductivity to damaged electronics

Researchers are developing a material that could let a circuit self-repair small but critical damage caused by such an impact. Capsules, filled with conductive nanotubes, that rip open under mechanicaal stress could be placed on circuit boards in failure-prone areas.

For more details on Nanotube-filled capsules could restore conductivity to damaged electronics click here

Expanded polyethylene for durable sports mats

For durable, hard-wearing and safe sports mats, BASF offers Neopolen® E, an expanded polyethylene (EPE). The lightweight foam can be used as core material for gym mats because it keeps its resilience and has an optimal energy absorption behavior even after heavy use.

For more details on Expanded polyethylene for durable sports mats click here

China's plastics industry expects market recovery

Plastic industry production volumes, sales, imports/exports and company efficiency have been improving steadily in the first half of this year, as per a joint report by China National Light Industry IInformation Center (CNLIIC), China Plastics Processing Industry Association (CPPIA) and Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE).

For more details on China's plastics industry expects market recovery click here

Year end shutdown of Dow’s Styrene Monomer and Ethylbenzene plants in Freeport

As part of a broad restructuring plan announced in June 2009, Dow Chemical Company will close styrene monomer and ethylbenzene production units at its Dow Texas Operations site in Freeport, Texas by tthe end of the year.

For more details on Year end shutdown of Dow’s Styrene Monomer and Ethylbenzene plants in Freeport click here

Hexion to hike price of acrylic, styrene acrylic, vinyl acrylic in North Americ

Hexion Specialty Chemicals Inc’s North American dispersions business will increase certain emulsion polymer prices in the United States and Canada with effect from Oct. 1 in a bid to cope with higher costs.

For more details on Hexion to hike price of acrylic, styrene acrylic, vinyl acrylic in North Americ click here

Unclear market direction induces stock liquidation of styrenics in Asia

Unenthusiastic demand and uncertain market outlook is inducing traders and distributors in Hong Kong to liquidate styrenic resins stocks-in-hand in China as per ICIS. PS and ABS resins values declinedd in recent weeks as traders liquidated stocks on uncertain outlook of demand in September, despite it being the last phase of the traditional manufacturing season, and volatile energy and feedstock SM.

For more details on Unclear market direction induces stock liquidation of styrenics in Asia click here

Unclear market direction induces stock liquidation of styrenics in Asia

Unenthusiastic demand and uncertain market outlook is inducing traders and distributors in Hong Kong to liquidate styrenic resins stocks-in-hand in China as per ICIS. PS and ABS resins values declinedd in recent weeks as traders liquidated stocks on uncertain outlook of demand in September, despite it being the last phase of the traditional manufacturing season, and volatile energy and feedstock SM.

For more details on Unclear market direction induces stock liquidation of styrenics in Asia click here

Government of East Timor interested to develop a regional petrochemicals hub

In a move that will bring disputed offshore oil and gas to its coast rather than to Australia, East Timor's government has designated land to be developed into a regional petrochemicals hub. Three towwns in the southern part of the island have been designated to build a petrochemical processing plant, liquid natural gas facility and supply center.

For more details on Government of East Timor interested to develop a regional petrochemicals hub click here

Polystyrene buyers in Europe S buyers scout for larger price decreases for September

Buyers of polystyrene (PS) in Europe are not satisfied with the current decrease in prices and are scouting for larger than offered decreases for September. PS prices have been tracking upstream styreene price movements for many months.

For more details on Polystyrene buyers in Europe S buyers scout for larger price decreases for September click here

SABIC in final negotiations with Vopak to rent MEG storage tanks at Eastern China port

SABIC- world’s number one producer of mono ethylene glycol (MEG ) is preparing to gear up for increased exports to China from its recently started up MEG plants at Yanbu National Petrochemicals Companny (Yansab) and Eastern Petrochemicals Company (Sharq).

For more details on SABIC in final negotiations with Vopak to rent MEG storage tanks at Eastern China port click here

PP LFRT with superior properties for automotive interior applications

New grades of Celstran®+ PP long fiber reinforced thermoplastics (LFRT) have been unveiled by Ticona Engineering Polymers. These grades are designed to outperform SMA resins and PC/ABS blends that aree commonly used by North American OEMs to mold automotive instrument panels, air duct panels and reinforcement components.

For more details on PP LFRT with superior properties for automotive interior applications click here

Asahi Kasei, SABIC mull acrylonitrile plant in Saudi Arabia

Japanese synthetic fibre maker Asahi Kasei Corp is mulling the idea of building an acrylonitrile plant in Saudi Arabia with other firms including Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC). The plant would uuse propylene and propane gas as feedstock to produce acrylonitrile.

For more details on Asahi Kasei, SABIC mull acrylonitrile plant in Saudi Arabia click here

Asahi Kasei, SABIC mull acrylonitrile plant in Saudi Arabia

Japanese synthetic fibre maker Asahi Kasei Corp is mulling the idea of building an acrylonitrile plant in Saudi Arabia with other firms including Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC). The plant would uuse propylene and propane gas as feedstock to produce acrylonitrile.

For more details on Asahi Kasei, SABIC mull acrylonitrile plant in Saudi Arabia click here

Easy construction complete houses from Wood Plastic Composites

British company Tech-Wood Int. Ltd., Kent offers a completely new product made of wood plastic composites - a modular system for quick, easy construction of complete houses from WPC. The first houses with a living area of 85 m2 and an entry-level price of about €21,000 are currently under construction in Europe and the USA.

For more details on Easy construction complete houses from Wood Plastic Composites click here

New line of engineered bioplastic specialty compounds from bioplastics

A comprehensive line of engineered bioplastic specialty compounds that utilize resins derived from rapidly renewable resources has been introduced by RTP Company. These bioplastic compounds contain 200-80% bio-content by weight and were developed to meet marketplace requests for alternative "green" materials.

For more details on New line of engineered bioplastic specialty compounds from bioplastics click here

High premium realised by Reliance for 75,000 tons of naphtha for mid-October lifting

Restricted avails has helped Reliance Industries sell 75,000 tons of naphtha for mid-October lifting to Itochu at a marginally higher premium of US$19-$20.50/ton to Middle East quotes on a free-on-boaard (FOB) basis.

For more details on High premium realised by Reliance for 75,000 tons of naphtha for mid-October lifting click here

OPEC meet results in pushing crude oil prices past US$72

US light sweet crude rose to US$72.1 in Asian trading, as the euro continued to strengthen against the US dollar, aided by OPEC decision to keep oil output unchanged. Since the market remains oversuppplied and given the downside risks associated with the extremely fragile recovery, OPEC has again agreed to leave current production levels unchanged for now.

For more details on OPEC meet results in pushing crude oil prices past US$72 click here

BASF to restructure production of polyamide 6 in Europe

BASF is restructuring its production of polyamide 6 in Europe. In the future, production will be bundled at BASF’s two Verbund sites in Antwerp, Belgium, and Ludwigshafen, Germany. The production of ppolyamide 6 at a third European production site in Rudolstadt in the German state of Thuringia will be discontinued at the end of 2010.

For more details on BASF to restructure production of polyamide 6 in Europe click here

Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Ltd to ramp up NE polymer consumption

Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Ltd will be North East India’s first Gas Cracker project, scheduled for commissioning by April 2012. The The Gas Authority of India (GAIL)-led joint venture project willl be located at Lepetkata in Dibrugarh, Assam at a cost of around Rs.

For more details on Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Ltd to ramp up NE polymer consumption click here

Aromatics maker Dalian Fujia Dahua procures naphtha from Egypt

China’s aromatics producer Dalian Fujia Dahua Petrochemical Co has procured about 300,000 tons of Egyptian naphtha for September-December lifting. The feedstock will feed its aromatics plant that is ooperating at high rates.

For more details on Aromatics maker Dalian Fujia Dahua procures naphtha from Egypt click here

Global market for polymer electronics estimated at £15 bln by 2015

The worldwide market for polymer electronic products has been estimated to be worth up to £15 billion by 2015 and the opportunity for new markets could be as high as £125 billion by 2025 as per a repoort by Research and Markets.

For more details on Global market for polymer electronics estimated at £15 bln by 2015 click here

Japan’s ethylene production rises 3.6% in August from a year ago level

Japan’s ethylene production rose 3.6% in August from a year ago levels, as robust demand enabled producers to keep their crackers at high rates. Output totalled 628,200 tons in August 2009 as comparedd to 606,100 tons in August 2008.

For more details on Japan’s ethylene production rises 3.6% in August from a year ago level click here

Libya and Dow mull JV to operate and expand Rxas Lanuf petrochemical complex

State-owned Libyan National Oil Company (NOC) and Dow Chemicals have reached the final stage before signing the agreement to operate and expand the Ras Lanuf petrochemical complex in Libya, with ethyllene capacity of 600,000 tpa ethylene.

For more details on Libya and Dow mull JV to operate and expand Rxas Lanuf petrochemical complex click here

More to lose jobs as Huntsman to shutter petrochemical plant in Melbourne

More workers will lose jobs as Huntsman plans to shutter its petrochemical plant in Melbourne in early 2010 once demolition and decontamination is completed. When the shutdown plan was announced in Deecember 2008 at the West Footscray plant, about 200 jobs were lost.

For more details on More to lose jobs as Huntsman to shutter petrochemical plant in Melbourne click here

Crude oil prices rises on second consecutive days as dollar weakens, equities rise

Weakening dollar against the euro; and strengthening equity markets together hint at optimism over economic recovery. A weaker dollar encourages commodity markets and investors uy oil as a hedge againnst inflation.

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SEAsian bioethanol market revenues estimates to reach US$6.17 bln in 2015

The Southeast Asian bioethanol market is brimming with opportunities following the recent industry growth, rising number of entrants, and intense competition for best market positioning. The expansionn of current producers, backed by the influx of new participants, has dramatically increased local production over the last 3-7 years.

For more details on SEAsian bioethanol market revenues estimates to reach US$6.17 bln in 2015 click here

New study finds drinking from polycarbonate bottles increases level of urinary BPA

A study from the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) is the first to show that drinking from polycarbonate bottles increased the level of urinary BPA, and thus suggests that drinking containers madde with BPA release the chemical into the liquid that people drink in sufficient amounts to increase the level of BPA excreted in human urine.

For more details on New study finds drinking from polycarbonate bottles increases level of urinary BPA click here

World's first eyeglasses from plant-based, heat-resistant bioplastic

Eyeglass frames have been developed from plant-based, heat-resistant bioplastic BIOFRONT, by Teijin Limited and Teijin Chemicals Ltd. collaboration with Tanaka Foresight Inc. BIOFRONT is the world's ffirst bioplastic to be used for all plastic parts of eyeglass frames, including the temples.

For more details on World's first eyeglasses from plant-based, heat-resistant bioplastic click here

Pipe failure cause of fire at Sunoco’s etyhlene plant on May 17

A pipe failure was the cause of a fire that broke out on May 17 at Sunoco’s Marcus Hook Refinery’s etyhlene plant. The pipe, which released ethylene gas that caught fire, was corroded from moisture. TThe corrosion is believed to have occurred over several years, and resulted from unseen moisture that collected between the bottom of the pipe and a loose steel support on which it rested.

For more details on Pipe failure cause of fire at Sunoco’s etyhlene plant on May 17 click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 7, 2009

CRUDE OIL
In the week of September 7, 2009, New York's main contract, light sweet crude for October delivery settled at US$68, while London's Brent Nortth Sea crude for October delivery settled at US$66.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 7, 2009 click here

Polyone invests in 5 new color and additives production lines in Europe

Polyone has invested in 5 new color and additives production lines in Europe to support the rising number of specialty products developed for key markets, including packaging, healthcare and transporttation.

For more details on Polyone invests in 5 new color and additives production lines in Europe click here

Petron plans to invest US$1.5 bln over next two years to upgrade Bataan refinery

Petron Corp. plans to invest US$1.5 bln over the next two years to upgrade its Bataan refinery, enabling it to comply with European emission standards called Euro4 by 2012. Euro4 means having 0.001% ssulfur content.

For more details on Petron plans to invest US$1.5 bln over next two years to upgrade Bataan refinery click here

Huntsman Corp decides to close styrene facility in Australia

After completing an internal review of the styrenics operations owned by Huntsman Chemical Company Australia Pty Ltd at West Footscray, Huntsman Corporation has decided to close the facility. The comppany expects to cease operation of the West Footscray styrene plant at year end 2009, with subsequent closure of its polystyrene and expandable polystyrene plants in early 2010.

For more details on Huntsman Corp decides to close styrene facility in Australia click here

Huntsman Corp decides to close styrene facility in Australia

After completing an internal review of the styrenics operations owned by Huntsman Chemical Company Australia Pty Ltd at West Footscray, Huntsman Corporation has decided to close the facility. The comppany expects to cease operation of the West Footscray styrene plant at year end 2009, with subsequent closure of its polystyrene and expandable polystyrene plants in early 2010.

For more details on Huntsman Corp decides to close styrene facility in Australia click here

EU threatens to impose tariffs on PET imports from Pakistan, Iran, UAE

The European Union has threatened to impose tariffs on PET imports from Pakistan, Iran and the UAE. These tariffs could be in retaliation for supposed anti-competitive subsidies and below-cost sellingg.

For more details on EU threatens to impose tariffs on PET imports from Pakistan, Iran, UAE click here

Styrene and benzene prices dip in tandem with weak naphtha and demand

Benzene and styrene prices in Europe have moved down in tandem with cheaper naphtha and weak demand. Following the 20% fall in the September benzene contract to €576/ton, styrene monomer (SM) fell 9% to €874/ton, cushioning the blow from the €80/ton ethylene rise.

For more details on Styrene and benzene prices dip in tandem with weak naphtha and demand click here

Steam leak shuts Ineos’ petrochemical plant at Lavera

A leak from a Napthachimie steam system resulted in the shutdown of INEOS' petrochemical facilities, including a cracker unit at Lavera, France. Ineos’ refinery at Lavera is however, operating normallly.

For more details on Steam leak shuts Ineos’ petrochemical plant at Lavera click here

OPEC could not seriously consider deepening/extending cuts till oil crosses US$75

OPEC has been successful in more than doubling oil prices after they ebbed to five-year lows in December. This outcome could persuade ministers to maintain production quotas after this week’s meeting..

For more details on OPEC could not seriously consider deepening/extending cuts till oil crosses US$75 click here

6.5% growth of petrochemical sector during Plan period 2007-12 misses target of 12%

The volatility in crude oil and petrochem prices amid a global economic slowdown, has affected the growth of the petrochemical sector in India. The sector has recorded 6.5% growth rate in the Eleventhh Five-Year Plan (2007-12) so far.

For more details on 6.5% growth of petrochemical sector during Plan period 2007-12 misses target of 12% click here

Oil prices motionless at US$68 ahead of US employment report

Awaiting U.S. employment data, the oil market was witness to directionless trading , with few deals concluded. Oil prices inched above US$68 a barrel in New York, while London Brent crude rose to US$667.

For more details on Oil prices motionless at US$68 ahead of US employment report click here

Naphtha demand slides further on increased availability of natural gas

Increased avails of natural gas have steadily demoted the status of naphtha as the preferred feedstock among power and fertiliser consumers. The downtrend in naphtha demand is projected to continue affter falling in the fourth consecutive month – July.

For more details on Naphtha demand slides further on increased availability of natural gas click here

Technip awarded two major turnkey contracts by Satorp

Saudi joint venture company Saudi Aramco Total Refining & Petrochemical Company (Satorp) has awarded two major turnkey projects to French engineering company Technip. The full conversion refinery willl have a processing capacity of 400 000 bbl/d.

For more details on Technip awarded two major turnkey contracts by Satorp click here

New plasticizer made from natural products

Roquette has been rewarded with the 2009 Pierre Potier prize for its POLYSORB® ID 37, a high-performance plasticizer produced from natural products, and it continue sto work further in the developmentt of vegetal-based chemistry.

For more details on New plasticizer made from natural products click here

Tight supply, rising RGP prop up initial US Sept propylene contracts

Initial US propylene contracts for September were settled at an increase of 12 cents/lb (US$265/ton), propped up by tight supply, steady demand and a jump in refinery-grade propylene (RGP) prices, as per ICIS pricing.

For more details on Tight supply, rising RGP prop up initial US Sept propylene contracts click here

Oil prices at US$68 as data reveals jump in jobless rate

A fresh report in USA has reported unemployment rate climbed to 9.7% in August from 9.4% in July. The report revealed a narrowing decline in payrolls in August, pulling down oil prices. New York's maiin contract, light sweet crude for October delivery settled at US$68, while London's Brent North Sea crude for October delivery settled at US$66.

For more details on Oil prices at US$68 as data reveals jump in jobless rate click here

Possible delay in Polycarbonate JV between Mitsubishi and Sinopec

A planned joint venture polycarbonate and bisphenol-A plant in Beijing between Mitsubishi Chemical Corp and Sinopec could face a possible delay in start up.Start up of the 60,000 ton polycarbonate plaant and 150,000 ton BPA plant that was originally scheduled to come onstream in 2010, could slip beyond 2010.

For more details on Possible delay in Polycarbonate JV between Mitsubishi and Sinopec click here

HPCL sells small sized naphtha cargoes below market value

Offering smaller sized cargoes, Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL) has sold 30,000 tons of naphtha for September lifting below market price -15,000 tons of full-range naphtha was sold by tender for SSept.

For more details on HPCL sells small sized naphtha cargoes below market value click here

Drop in crude and gasoline supplies reported but oil falls

Oil prices continue falling despite an Energy Department report showing a drop in crude and gasoline supplies that suggests demand may be recovering. This could be because currently oil and gasoline iin storage is much greater, attributed in part to a grim travel season.

For more details on Drop in crude and gasoline supplies reported but oil falls click here

Surplus naphtha to find its way into Asian markets in Oct-December

A delay in start up of an aromatics complex by Kuwait Petroleum Corp is apparent as it has offered 50,000 tons of naphtha for mid-October lifting. Additionally, about 400,000 tons of Middle Eastern annd Indian naphtha will also find its way into Asian markets.

For more details on Surplus naphtha to find its way into Asian markets in Oct-December click here

Kuwait Petroleum Corp offers naphtha for October lifting

It is unlikely Kuwait Petroleum Corp’s delayed aromatics complex will start up next month as expected. 1.5 mln tpa of naphtha will be required a feedstock at the plant was to begin operations initiallly in April, then July, and later to September.

For more details on Kuwait Petroleum Corp offers naphtha for October lifting click here

Price hikes delayed by PE makers

After some uncertainty, major North American polyethylene makers have delayed 4-cent/lb price hike from Aug. 1 to Sept. 1 as per Plasticnews. PE market pricing for August was expected to be flat like in July, but rising export volumes and increasing operating rates led producers to make a late-month push to get the increase through.

For more details on Price hikes delayed by PE makers click here

Price hikes delayed by PE makers

After some uncertainty, major North American polyethylene makers have delayed 4-cent/lb price hike from Aug. 1 to Sept. 1 as per Plasticnews. PE market pricing for August was expected to be flat like in July, but rising export volumes and increasing operating rates led producers to make a late-month push to get the increase through.

For more details on Price hikes delayed by PE makers click here

Lyondell reverses earlier decision to shut Chocolate Bayou HDPE plant

As demand for polyethylenes has got boosted by rising demand from Asia, Lyondell Chemical, has reversed its decision to permanently shut it 180,000 tons HDPE plant at Chocolate Bayou site in Texas, ass per ICIS.

For more details on Lyondell reverses earlier decision to shut Chocolate Bayou HDPE plant click here

A specially formulated water bottle that contain no EA causing chemicals

A new water bottle Purebot ™ has been introduced, which gives consumers all the advantages of modern plastics without the associated health risks of estrogenic activity (EA). Scientists and biologistss at Austin-based PlastiPure have partnered with the California-based hydration specialists at Hydrapak to create Purebot ™, taking plastic to the safest level by creating and certifying materials and products free of all EA, not just EA caused by BPA and phthalates.

For more details on A specially formulated water bottle that contain no EA causing chemicals click here

New high-performance HDPE resins for diversified rotomolding applications

A new high-performance range of Lupolen high density polyethylene (HDPE) resins to address the diversified requirements of customer rotomolding applications has been introduced by LyondellBasell Indusstries.

For more details on New high-performance HDPE resins for diversified rotomolding applications click here

Exxon plans one month complete turnaround in May 2010

Exxon Mobil Corp has planned a one month long complete maintenance shutdown at its 296,000 bpd Singapore refinery. Shutdown is planned in May 2010 at the smaller of its two facilities at Jurong Islandd nd includes taking down in stages both the plant's crude distillation units (CDUs).

For more details on Exxon plans one month complete turnaround in May 2010 click here

Increasing supplies from the Middle East could impact naphtha price uptrend

Europe delivered some 500,000 tons of naphtha to Asia in the first week of August, that shrivelled. The second week of August saw a surge in Asian naphtha cracks to near 6 month highs on reduction in regular supplies from Europe as flows ended due to refinery run cuts and to meet Western demand for gasoline and petrochemical production, coupled with limited exports from India.

For more details on Increasing supplies from the Middle East could impact naphtha price uptrend click here

PP laminate film to achieve packaging sustainability, no compromise on barrier properties or product freshness

Flexi-Green™ Polypropylene Laminate film has been introduced for a wide variety of overwrap applications where moisture barrier, product longevity, recyclability, and overall sustainability are requirred.

For more details on PP laminate film to achieve packaging sustainability, no compromise on barrier properties or product freshness click here

Itochu procures 170,000 barrels of open spec naphtha from Bangladesh

The Singapore arm of Itochu Petroleum, being the highest of 4 bidders, has procured 170,000 barrels of open-spec naphtha from state-owned Bangladesh Petroleum Corp (BPC). Deal was struck at US$68.22/bbarrel, to be loaded from Chittagong from Sept.

For more details on Itochu procures 170,000 barrels of open spec naphtha from Bangladesh click here

Bio-based thermoplastic elastomer used for running shoes

Japanese sports equipment manufacturer Mizuno Corp has selected a bio-based thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) - Pebax Rnew grade from the French producer Arkema to produce midsole for four new models of rrunning shoes.

For more details on Bio-based thermoplastic elastomer used for running shoes click here

Poland' No 1 refiners report declines in Q2 net income

A 33% drop in Q2 net income hit by reduced refinery output and margins impacted by the global economic crisis has been reported by Poland's largest oil refiner PKN Orlen SA. Net income fell to 1.17 blln zloty (US$410 mln) from 1.

For more details on Poland' No 1 refiners report declines in Q2 net income click here

First ever aluminum can with integrated thermoplastic closure

An innovative aluminum can with an integrated flat opening mechanism made from thermoplastic, called Ball Resealable End (BRE) has been developed by the firm Ball Packaging Europe as part of a 5 year industrial project.

For more details on First ever aluminum can with integrated thermoplastic closure click here

Thai PTT Chemical forecasts revenue of 80 bln baht for 2009, 100 bln baht for 2010

Revenue for 2009 is forecast at about 80 billion baht for 2009 by Thailand's leading olefin producer PTT Chemical PCL. This is expected to increase by 25% to over 100 bln baht for 2010 upon completionn of its new ethane cracker in late 2009.

For more details on Thai PTT Chemical forecasts revenue of 80 bln baht for 2009, 100 bln baht for 2010 click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended August 31, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices have dipped by over a dollar in the week of August 31, 2009. Several factors were responsible for the dip: a drop in China's key stock index that fanned concerns about the pace of economic recovery and a revival in energy demand, as well as rising stockpiles in USA.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended August 31, 2009 click here

Fujian Refining & Petrochemical starts full trial run

Fujian Refining & Petrochemical Co Ltd. has started a full trial run of the plant last week. The joint venture between Sinopec Corp, Exxon Mobil and Saudi Aramco is scheduled to be fully operational iin H2-09.

For more details on Fujian Refining & Petrochemical starts full trial run click here

Formosa increase quantities of LPG as feedstock in ethylene production

After doubling LPG storage capacity to 100,000 metric tons, Taiwan’s Formosa Petrochemical Corp. has decided to increase the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the production of ethylene 15% of ffeedstock used.

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Clariant sells specialty silicones business

Clariant has sold its specialty silicones business, including its Gainesville Florida facility, to SiVance LLC, an affiliate of New York-based GenNx360 Capital Partners. GenNx360 is a private equity ffirm focused on industrial business-to-business companies.

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IPI e-Academy Online Webinar by Dr YB Vasudeo to be aired this week

IPI e-Academy Online Webinar will be aired this week on Sepetmber 3, 2009 at 5.00 p.m. (IST). This Lecture will be delivered by Dr. Y. B. Vasudeo, President & CEO, BY INNOVATIONS Consultancy Pvt. Ltd..

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Gloomy state of petro and petrochem industry in China

The state of China’s petro and petrochem industry is still gloomy as per the July production data from China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Association. In July, 33,796 large-scale enterprises in thee industry achieved industrial production value of 571.

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State environmental regulator fines Dow, Chevron Phillips, Shintech

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has fined Dow, Chevron Phillips, Shintech sites in Brazoria County for emission and record-keeping violations.
The regulatory board has levied a fine off US$63000 against Dow Chemical Co.

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Yangzi Petrochemicals hikes run rates at ethylene unit

Yangzi Petrochemical Company has hiked ethylene production capacity at its plant located in Nanjing, Jiangsu province. Bullish trend in the olefins market has supported s decision by the company to inncrease ethylene production from 780,000 tons to 800,000 tons in the current year.

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