Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended October 26, 2009

CRUDE OIL
US crude for December delivery ended the week October 26, 2009 at US$80.50, while Brent crude slipped to US$78.92. Oil prices dipped from US$82 peaked midweek as the US dollar strengthened in comparison with other currencies and doubts over the pace of economic recovery halted oil’s recent rally.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended October 26, 2009 click here

Kuwait focuses on downstream development in olefins

Though a wide range of sectors have been fostered in Kuwait’s manufacturing sector, nearly all rely on hydrocarbons either as feedstock or to provide cheap sources of energy to process imported feedsttock.

For more details on Kuwait focuses on downstream development in olefins click here

Sales of thermoplastics to witness strong recovery in Europe in Q4-09

Sales of thermoplastic resins will see a strong recovery in the fourth quarter as per a new report by AMI Consulting. This quarterly growth will spur the market, as it will experience modest growth off 1-2% in 2010 and more robust growth of 2-3% in 2011 and 2012.

For more details on Sales of thermoplastics to witness strong recovery in Europe in Q4-09 click here

Haldia Petrochemicals’ 75 day shutdown for project Supermax delayed to end of month

Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd’s 75 day total plant shutdown for capacity expansion has been delayed to end of month. Presence of naphtha stockpiles in the tanks, that the company looks to depleting beforee the shutdown, has causes the delay.

For more details on Haldia Petrochemicals’ 75 day shutdown for project Supermax delayed to end of month click here

Reliance Industries sells naphtha at lower premium vs October

Reliance Industries has realized a lower premium versus October on naphtha on account of relatively weak markets in H1-October due to demand uncertainties in China. Reliance has sold 75,000 tons of naaphtha by tender for Nov.

For more details on Reliance Industries sells naphtha at lower premium vs October click here

Weakness persists in Asian PTA markets as feedstock paraxylene comes to standstill

Despite almost four dollar increase in crude prices, weakness persisted in Asian purified terepthalic acid (PTA) market as feedstock paraxylene (PX) markets stagnated last week. PTA values were also llargely stable at US$830-840/ton CFR CMP last week.

For more details on Weakness persists in Asian PTA markets as feedstock paraxylene comes to standstill click here

CNPC ventures into Sinopec stronghold territory Jiangsu with new petrochemical project

Asia’s leading oil and gas producer CNPC has ventured into the stronghold territory of adversary Sinopec with a major petrochemical project in Jiangsu. The project is to be located in the city of Yanggzhong at a total investment outlay of 20 bln yuan (US$2.

For more details on CNPC ventures into Sinopec stronghold territory Jiangsu with new petrochemical project click here

Bharat Oman Refinery Ltd to expand capacity of Bina refinery

Government of Indian state of Madhya Pradesh has said that the Bharat Oman Refinery Ltd. (BORL) had decided to expand the capacity of the awaited Bina refinery from the existing 6 mln tpa to 9-12 mln tpa.

For more details on Bharat Oman Refinery Ltd to expand capacity of Bina refinery click here

Oil prices decline for third consecutive day to less than US$80

Market players await this week's company earnings and US economic data for evidence that justifies last week's oil prices hike to all year highs. Doubts abound about the strength of the global economiic recovery.

For more details on Oil prices decline for third consecutive day to less than US$80 click here

Celanese to double vinyl acetate ethylene capacity in China

Chemical maker Celanese Corp. plans to double vinyl acetate ethylene (VAE) capacity at Nanjing, China. Operations are expected to commence in H1-2011. With 6 production units, Nanjing is currently thee largest integrated site in the company’s global manufacturing network.

For more details on Celanese to double vinyl acetate ethylene capacity in China click here

US dollar strengthens, oil prices dip at end of last week

US crude for December delivery dipped to US$80.50, while Brent crude slipped to US$78.92. Oil prices dipped from US$82 at the end of last week as the US dollar strengthened as compared to other currenncies and doubts over the pace of economic recovery halted oil’s recent rally.

For more details on US dollar strengthens, oil prices dip at end of last week click here

Eastman to bring down Integrex PET plant in South Carolina in Q4

Eastman Chemical plans to bring down its Integrex polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plant in South Carolina in the fourth quarter to make additional improvements and resolve operational problems, as peer ICIS.

For more details on Eastman to bring down Integrex PET plant in South Carolina in Q4 click here

New polyethylene for flexible packaging applications

A new polyethylene (PE) resin for potential use in a wide range of customer blown film applications has been commercially launched by LyondellBasell Industries.The new Lupolen GX 4081 grade features aa superior balance of mechanical properties, and a unique combination of stiffness and toughness that offers significant downgauging potential, up to double digits, for numerous flexible packaging applications.

For more details on New polyethylene for flexible packaging applications click here

State government to ink MOU with center for development of Nayachar as a PCPIR

Bengal state government is to ink a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Centre at the end of the month, for the development of a chemical hub across Nayachar and Haldia. The pact will outline tthe role and responsibilities of the state and the Centre on developing the hub, in which the centre will invest Rs 2,508 crore over 5 years in developing infrastructure.

For more details on State government to ink MOU with center for development of Nayachar as a PCPIR click here

Thailand’s SCG Plastics moves to Dubai to develop, establish new regional business opportunities

Thailand-based plastic resin trading company SCG Plastics will commence operations from Almas Tower in Dubai as a DMCC-registered company, following the DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) licence iin April.

For more details on Thailand’s SCG Plastics moves to Dubai to develop, establish new regional business opportunities click here

Recovering economies to boost Q3-09 performance of Asian petrochemical majors

Asian petrochemical majors anticipate a healthier performance in Q3-09 as compared to performance in the second quarter as the global economy gradually recovers. China grew at a faster rate of 8.9% Juuly to September, as compared to a 7.

For more details on Recovering economies to boost Q3-09 performance of Asian petrochemical majors click here

New material with intrinsic 'repairability' for aircraft and car safety

Self-repairing aircraft and cars are now one step nearer, thanks to research at the University of Reading into materials with intrinsic "repairability" built into their design. Researchers in the Readding Centre for Advanced Polymers (ReCAP), based in the Department of Chemistry, have designed an entirely novel material in which the binding forces between two different plastics are designed to be quantitatively reversible.

For more details on New material with intrinsic 'repairability' for aircraft and car safety click here

Problem in residue fluid catalytic cracking system resolved at Dung Quat oil refinery

A problem at Dung Quat oil refinery’s residue fluid catalytic cracking system has been resolved. Capacity is being raised from 65% to 100%. Operations have resumed at the beginning of the month after 20 days, and a shipment of 5,500 tons of propylene has been dispatched to Japan.

For more details on Problem in residue fluid catalytic cracking system resolved at Dung Quat oil refinery click here

PET recycling rate touches 27%- the highest in over ten years in USA and Canada

The National Association for PET Container Resources (NAPCOR), the Association of Postconsumer Plastic Recyclers (APR), and the PET Resin Association (PETRA) have released the "2008 Report on Postconssumer PET Container Recycling Activity" and a 2008 Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) recycling rate of 27%.

For more details on PET recycling rate touches 27%- the highest in over ten years in USA and Canada click here

Big institutional investors driving up oil and gasoline prices

Crude oil on the New York Mercantile Exchange has risen to hover around US$80/barrel, its highest level in a year. Interestingly, USA has ample oil stocks, and demand remains weak because of the recesssion, but oil and gasoline price have been escalating.

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Mitsubishi Chemical Corp. inaugurates new PTA facility in Haldia

PTA India Corp, the Haldia-based arm of Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation of Japan, has inaugurated its’ new 800,000 ton capacity, largest single-line production facility of purified terapthalic acid (PPTA) in the world at Haldia, West Bengal.

For more details on Mitsubishi Chemical Corp. inaugurates new PTA facility in Haldia click here

Eco-engineered flexible resin for appliance wiring material (AWM) applications in consumer electronics

SABIC Innovative Plastics has announced that LTK Industries, a leading Hong Kong-based wire and cable OEM and long-term customer, is driving the use of SABIC Innovative Plastics’ eco-progressive Flexiible Noryl* resin into appliance wiring material (AWM) applications used in consumer electronics.

For more details on Eco-engineered flexible resin for appliance wiring material (AWM) applications in consumer electronics click here

Eastman Chemical Co progresses in improving profitability in a challenging economic environment

Eastman Chemical Company has announced it Q3-09 results. The company has continued to make solid progress improving profitability during a challenging economic environment. Jim Rogers, president and CCEO said, “Cash generation also continues to be a priority, and we did a great job during the quarter generating well over US$200 million in free cash flow.

For more details on Eastman Chemical Co progresses in improving profitability in a challenging economic environment click here

ONGC and subsidiary MRPL fetch higher premiums of two naphtha cargoes

India's Oil & Natural Gas (ONGC) and its subsidiary Mangalore Refineries and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) have concluded November deals by tender for total 176,000 tons of naphtha, diesel and jet fuel. AAs the market shows signs of improvement over the past week, the Indian major has realized higher premiums for two of the three naphtha cargoes.

For more details on ONGC and subsidiary MRPL fetch higher premiums of two naphtha cargoes click here

US demand for flexible packaging to exceed US$18 bln in 2013

Demand for converted flexible packaging in the US is expected to exceed $18 billion in 2013 as per Freedonia. Gains will reflect a rebound in the US economy and will be supported by cost, performance and source reduction advantages over most rigid packaging formats.

For more details on US demand for flexible packaging to exceed US$18 bln in 2013 click here

European markets too fragile to cope with polymer price increases

The recent sizeable increases in polymer prices do not bode well for Europes’ plastic processing industry. Infact, these sizeable price increases could be more than what the fragile European markets wwill be able to cope with.

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Crude oil continues to hover around US$80

Crude oil slipped marginally to US $81.1 in New York, while Brent crude was inched up to US$79.54, as the market awaits release of existing homes sales figures that will further clarify the state of tthe US economy.

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Tariff distortion erodes growth of Philippines’ plastic processors

Sales figures for the year of Philippines’ plastic manufacturing industry expected to be flat or dip marginally over year ago levels. This pessimism can be blamed on tariff distortions that continue tto hurt the sector’s prospects along with the impact of competing imports.

For more details on Tariff distortion erodes growth of Philippines’ plastic processors click here

Dow’s Q3-09 performance

Dow’s Q3 performance has been driven by sequential price increases, volume growth in Electronic and Specialty Materials and Coatings and Infrastructure (Advanced Materials), Performance Products and PPerformance Systems, as well as the Company's actions to reduce cost and capture acquisition-related synergies.

For more details on Dow’s Q3-09 performance click here

A versatile medical polymer with built-in surface technology designed for chronic implants

A versatile medical polymer with built-in surface technology designed for chronic implants has been introduced by DSM PTG, part of DSM Biomedical. Bionate® II PCU is a line extension of the well knownn Bionate® Polycarbonate Urethane family, one of the industry’s leading medical polymers for long-term implants and is backed by an established FDA Master File.

For more details on A versatile medical polymer with built-in surface technology designed for chronic implants click here

Mitsubishi to restart No.1 naphtha cracker at Kashima after couple of weeks

Earlier this week, an unplanned shutdown has been caused by problem with the unit's pipes at Mitsubishi Chemical Corp’s No.1 naphtha cracker at Kashima. Te Japanese major plans to restart its 375,000 tpa No.

For more details on Mitsubishi to restart No.1 naphtha cracker at Kashima after couple of weeks click here

Natural gas by RIL to be allocated to power, petrochemical, refinery sectors

Led by Finance Minister of India, a 7 member Empowered Group of Ministers is to meet to determine allocation of natural gas produced by RIL to users in power, petrochemical and refinery sectors. Aboutt 100 mmscmd gas is being demanded by power plants, refineries and steel units.

For more details on Natural gas by RIL to be allocated to power, petrochemical, refinery sectors click here

New PC/ABS copolymer blend for grades application in medical technology

PC/ABS copolymer blend grades with outstanding properties for applications in medical technology have been introduced. The resin Bayblend® M850 XF has been launched by Bayer MaterialScience AG, expaanding its portfolio of PC/ABS (polycarbonate/acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) copolymer blends.

For more details on New PC/ABS copolymer blend for grades application in medical technology click here

Breakthrough technology to transform algae into bioplastics

A breakthrough technology to transform algae into bioplastics that could replace 50% or more of the petroleum content used in traditional plastic resins; has been developed by Cereplast, Inc., manufaccturer of proprietary bio-based sustainable plastics.

For more details on Breakthrough technology to transform algae into bioplastics click here

Advances in Medical Polymers and Devices

The global medical device market is valued at around $200 billion and the US consumes about 45% of this. Markets are growing in Eastern Europe, Brazil, Russia, India and China, according to the consuultant Len Czuba.

For more details on Advances in Medical Polymers and Devices click here

Will petrochem prices in Asia fall at the same pace that they have spiked?

Over the past 2 weeks, price of petrochemicals in Asia have shown signs of stability. After the Chinese returned to the markets to start restocking post National Holidays, prices have started moving uup in line with strong crude values.

For more details on Will petrochem prices in Asia fall at the same pace that they have spiked? click here

Crude oil surges past US$80, peaks to all year highs

Light sweet crude oil for December delivery rose to US$81.3. Crude oil prices have surged to all year highs, on fresh data by IEA indicating a smaller than expected build in weekly inventories in USA coupled with news of a weaker dollar that provides a thrust to oil's hedge appeal.

For more details on Crude oil surges past US$80, peaks to all year highs click here

New polyethylene resin for potential use in range of blown film applications

A new polyethylene (PE) resin for potential use in a wide range of blown film applications has been commercially launched by LyondellBasell Industries. Produced using LyondellBasell's Spherilene gas pphase process technology that employs a unique catalysis system, the Lupolen GX 4081 resin exhibits a melt flow rate of 1.

For more details on New polyethylene resin for potential use in range of blown film applications click here

Mitsubishi, PTT to study development of bio-polybutylene succinate in Thailand

Japan's Mitsubishi Chemical Corp and Thailand's PTT Public Company Limited, have agreed to study the development of bio-polybutylene succinate (a bio-degradable polymer) made from biomass resources. TThe two will jointly conduct a study for business development of GS Pla and bio-succinic acid.

For more details on Mitsubishi, PTT to study development of bio-polybutylene succinate in Thailand click here

CPCIA issues guidelines to restructure petrochemical industry in China

The China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Association (CPCIA) has released two documents to guide the restructuring of the petrochemical industry. The association has drafted the guidelines in conjunnction with five domestic petroleum and chemical groups.

For more details on CPCIA issues guidelines to restructure petrochemical industry in China click here

Air Products inks deal to sell polyurethane pre-polymers business to COIM USA

Air Products has signed an agreement to sell its polyurethane pre-polymers business, marketed under the Airthane and Versathane tradenames, to COIM USA Inc., a fully owned subsidiary of global polyureethane chemicals producerCOIM SpA.

For more details on Air Products inks deal to sell polyurethane pre-polymers business to COIM USA click here

Scrappage scheme in Europe impacts auto exports from India to Europe

A scrappage program is a government budget program to promote replacement of old vehicles with modern vehicles and generally has the dual aim of stimulating the automobile industry and getting rid of inefficient, high emissions vehicles.

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PP buyers in Europe restrict buying, consume stocks

In anticipation of a further price dip in November, European buyers of polypropylene (PP) are buying very limited quantities. In fact, despite falling prices, buyers prefer to dig into their stocks annd are not buying at current prices.

For more details on PP buyers in Europe restrict buying, consume stocks click here

Ethylene production in China to cross 21 mln tons by 2015

Production of ethylene will reach 21-23 mln tons by 2015, meeting 60-65% of domestic demand, as per guidelines compiled by the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Association and major oil companiess.

For more details on Ethylene production in China to cross 21 mln tons by 2015 click here

European polyethylene buyers envisage lower prices

Polyethylene (PE) buyers in Europe have curtailed buying activity and are buying bare minimum quantities this month on expectations that of a further price slide in November. Many see October as a traansition month, when October PE prices would be relatively stable ahead of a sustained price fall in the rest of the fourth quarter, due to easing upstream prices and the expected imports from the Middle East.

For more details on European polyethylene buyers envisage lower prices click here

Saudi Kayan reissues tender for the construction of LDPE plant in Jubail

Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Co, a unit of Saudi Basic Industries Corp., has reissued a tender for the construction of a low density polyethylene plant (LDPE) in Jubail. Saudi Kayan has asked contractorss to resubmit bids for the building of the 300,000 tpa LDPE plant and a 210,000 tpa amines plant.

For more details on Saudi Kayan reissues tender for the construction of LDPE plant in Jubail click here

New polymer-based material can change from clear to multi-coloured

A new polymer-based material can change from clear to multi-coloured right through to opaque black at the flick of a switch. The electrochromic material could find some interesting applications, such as multi-coloured information displays, electronic books and colour changing mirrors.

For more details on New polymer-based material can change from clear to multi-coloured click here

High-performance enhanced polyolefins for sheet and profile producers

A family of high-performance Invision® enhanced polyolefin resins for sheet and profile producers has been introduced by A. Schulman, Inc. Available globally, the product family consists of high melt strength TPO compounds, and durable high-performance olefinic capstock resins.

For more details on High-performance enhanced polyolefins for sheet and profile producers click here

Will PVC prices sustain in Asia as demand from China heads for seasonal downturn

The recent surge in crude values to one-year highs past US$76 is sufficient stimulus for ethylene to rise and pull PVC prices along the same direction. Despite an increase in feedstock costs, PVC pricces could moderate or even reduce amid unenthusiastic demand and sharp competition among sellers.

For more details on Will PVC prices sustain in Asia as demand from China heads for seasonal downturn click here

Italian exports of plastics and rubber machinery

According to Assocomaplast- the Italian Plastics and Rubber Processing Machinery and Moulds Manufacturers’ Association Italian exports of plastics and rubber machinery in the first semester of 2009, ddecreased by 32% in value terms as compared to the same period of last year.

For more details on Italian exports of plastics and rubber machinery click here

PVC in China

In general, PVC divides into soft and hard products, in which soft PVC products accounted for 40.8% of China's total PVC consumption and hard products take rest of the all as per a Research and Marketts.

For more details on PVC in China click here

Unexpected fall in US gasoline stocks, oil prices continue week long rally

Oil prices continue on their week long rally, rising past US$78 per barrel. Benchmark crude for November delivery rose to US$78.1 before slipping back to US$78.03 by midday Singapore time in electroniic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

For more details on Unexpected fall in US gasoline stocks, oil prices continue week long rally click here

Milliken subsidiary acquires leading North American pigment and additive maker

Milliken & Company, through a subsidiary, has acquired the assets of Rebus, Inc., a leading North American provider of pigment and additive dispersions for the thermoset plastics and high-performance industrial coatings markets.

For more details on Milliken subsidiary acquires leading North American pigment and additive maker click here

Polyone sells 50% equity in Colombian vinyl compounding JV

Leading global provider of specialized polymer materials -PolyOne Corporation, has sold to Mexichem, a 50% equity stake in Geon Polimeros Andinos (GPA), a vinyl compounding joint venture located in Caartagena, Colombia.

For more details on Polyone sells 50% equity in Colombian vinyl compounding JV click here

PetroVietnam gets US$145.7 mln loan to build polypropylene unit near Dung Quat refinery

BNP Paribas, Calyon and HSBC have signed a US$145.7 mln loan with state oil group Petrovietnam to build a polypropylene unit near Dung Quat refinery- Vietnam's first oil refinery. The loan will fund cconstruction of the factory, the engineering, procurement and construction contract of which was signed with a consortium including Hyundai Engineering.

For more details on PetroVietnam gets US$145.7 mln loan to build polypropylene unit near Dung Quat refinery click here

Paraxylene unit at Sinopec’s Shanghai unit starts up

Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Co., Ltd. has successfully started up a new paraxylene complex using UOP process technology at the Sinopec facility in Shanghai. The aromatics project was completed in jjust 30 months from initial kick-off through commissioning, with UOP providing the technology license, basic engineering, equipment packages, and key products.

For more details on Paraxylene unit at Sinopec’s Shanghai unit starts up click here

KBR awarded contract by Sasol for engineering services across various sectors

KBR has been awarded a Framework Contract by Sasol Technology (Pty) Ltd., the technology arm of the Sasol Group (Sasol), to provide engineering services across various sectors of Sasol Group’s businesss including downstream, petrochemical, and upstream in Southern Africa.

For more details on KBR awarded contract by Sasol for engineering services across various sectors click here

September exports dip in Singapore on reduced global demand for electronics, petrochemicals

September exports (excluding oil) dipped by over 7% in Singapore as global demand for electronics and petrochemicals took a hit. This has come as a hurdle in the island country’s trade recovery. Exporrts excluding oil fell 7.

For more details on September exports dip in Singapore on reduced global demand for electronics, petrochemicals click here

North American companies to distribute an estimated 91 bln lbs of thermoplastic compounds in 2009

North American companies will distribute an estimated 91 billion pounds of thermoplastic compounds in 2009 as per a report by BCC Research. This is expected to increase to 107 bln lbs in 2014, for a 55-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.

For more details on North American companies to distribute an estimated 91 bln lbs of thermoplastic compounds in 2009 click here

Bridges made from recycled plastics can support weight of tanks

New bridges made from recycled detergent bottles and car bumpers are strong enough to hold up a 73-ton Abrams tank, takes only a month to build, costs 25% less than an equivalent wooden bridge and reqquires no annual maintenance.

For more details on Bridges made from recycled plastics can support weight of tanks click here

Feed for Petrochemical production at Tacaamol to commence early next year

Tacaamol, a 49:51 joint venture between International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) and Abu Dhabi National Chemicals, , will commence feed for petrochemical production early next year. This is tthe first phase of Chemaweyaat and is well on track.

For more details on Feed for Petrochemical production at Tacaamol to commence early next year click here

BP’s aromatics recovery unit to resume production at Texas

BP PLC’s aromatics recovery unit will resume production at the A side of its Texas City oil refinery. Emissions resulting from the startup could last until Saturday. All venting of off-gases will be vvented to a fuel gas system or to a distillate desulphurization unit and safety flare, if the fuel gas system is not available.

For more details on BP’s aromatics recovery unit to resume production at Texas click here

Volume growth of flexible packaging depends on consumer product growth

Volume growth of flexible packaging is highly dependent upon the growth of consumer products, particularly non-discretionary products such as food. Value growth is dependent upon volume as well as priicing which has been under pressure in 2009 as the inputs associated with oil have dropped in price forcing packaging producers to pass on much of the decrease.

For more details on Volume growth of flexible packaging depends on consumer product growth click here

One third premium realized by IOC for early-November naphtha cargo

Weakening market sentiment on expectations of increased supplies and weaker petrochemical margins have impacted premiums realised on naphtha sales.
Indian Oil Corp (IOC) has realized a premium threee times lower than its previous sale.

For more details on One third premium realized by IOC for early-November naphtha cargo click here

Specially-treated facemask made from antimicrobial polymer effective against H1N1

A unique facemask treated with BIOSAFE®, that is effective against H1N1 virus made from BIOSAFE’s novel antimicrobial polymer, has been introduced by Crosstex. Crosstex' new BIOSAFE-treated Ultra Senssitive facemasks begin to reduce microorganisms such as MRSA, VRE, and Staph immediately upon contact, and have further proven to be effective against Influenza A strains such as seasonal flu and the novel H1N1 virus.

For more details on Specially-treated facemask made from antimicrobial polymer effective against H1N1 click here

Crude oil rise for fourth consecutive day

OPEC’s forecast for healthier demand amid a weakening dollar and falling temperatures has supported oil prices, pushing them up for the fourth consecutive day past US$74. The front-month November conttract, which hit a seven-week high is at the year’s intraday peak recorded on Aug.

For more details on Crude oil rise for fourth consecutive day click here

Decision on overseas acquisition by Reliance towards end of year

Reliance Industries is in advanced talks to acquire refinery and petrochemical units in the US or Europe. India’s largest petrochemical maker could finalise a deal by end of the year.


For more details on Decision on overseas acquisition by Reliance towards end of year click here

A material 15% stronger, yet lighter than standard Kevlar® fibers

Kevlar® Advanced Performance (AP) fibers – a material 15% stronger yet lighter in weight when compared to standard Kevlar® fibers has been introduced by DuPont Protection Technologies.
The first offfering in the new line is Kevlar® K29 AP.

For more details on A material 15% stronger, yet lighter than standard Kevlar® fibers click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended October 12, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices rose past US$72 in the week of October 12, 2009 supported by a weak US dollar and on expectation of an economic recovery. The IInternational Energy Agency up revised its forecast of global consumption for 2010 by 1.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended October 12, 2009 click here

Polyethylene from Europe finds it’s way to China

After a week long break for its National Holidays, Chinese PE and PP buyers bounced into the markets and set the global markets in momentum as polymer trade showed signs of recovery due to restocking activities.

For more details on Polyethylene from Europe finds it’s way to China click here

ONGC offers second cargo from Hazira in November

At a time when demand is slower due to decreased buying interest, India's Oil & Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) has offered a second naphtha cargo from Hazira for sale in November. ONGC usually offers an averrage of two spot cargoes a month from Hazira and Mumbai.

For more details on ONGC offers second cargo from Hazira in November click here

Chinese PE and PP buyers bounced into the markets to restock

After a week long break for its National Holidays, Chinese PE and PP buyers bounced into the markets to restock. China, the world’s number one importer of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), sett the global markets in momentum as polymer trade showed signs of recovery due to restocking activities since reopening as per ICIS.

For more details on Chinese PE and PP buyers bounced into the markets to restock click here

Sipchem’s new petrochemical plant to be operational next month

Saudi International Petrochemical Co (Sipchem)’s new petrochemical plant, part of its second phase, will be fully operational in November. The investment outlay totals to US$1.8 bln for the second phaase and will comprise an acetyls complex that will produce 450,000 tpa of acetic acid, 330,000 tpa of vinyl acetate monomer and 345,000 tpa of carbon monoxide.

For more details on Sipchem’s new petrochemical plant to be operational next month click here

LG Chem’s Q3-09 earnings surpass estimates, full-year sales to reach record highs

LG Chem has posted third-quarter earnings that have surpassed estimates, and that could prop full-year sales to record highs. Earnings in the first 9 months exceeded LG Chem’s 2008 profit as the cost of naphtha fell and China’s stimulus package spurred demand.

For more details on LG Chem’s Q3-09 earnings surpass estimates, full-year sales to reach record highs click here

Sinopec mulls startup of 1 mln tpa ethylene complex at Zhejiang in 2010

As per original plans, Sinopec Corp plans to start up its 1 mln tpa ethylene complex in Zhejiang province in Q1-2010 at the earliest. Construction of the complex, built at an outlay of 25 billion yuann (US$3.

For more details on Sinopec mulls startup of 1 mln tpa ethylene complex at Zhejiang in 2010 click here

Haldia Petro shuts operations for 4 months to proceed with Project Supermax

Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd (HPL) has decided on a 4 month shutdown of operations at its plant in a bid to pursue Project Supermax, to augment plant capacity from 5,20,000 tpa to 6,70,000 tpa. The shutddown, will impact company performance figures as no production for four months will adversely affect sales.

For more details on Haldia Petro shuts operations for 4 months to proceed with Project Supermax click here

On-time completion of Borouge 3 will position company in top 10 world polyolefin producers

On-time completion of Borouge 3 in 2013 will position Abu Dhabi Polymers Company (Borouge) as one of the top-ten world polyolefin producers. With planned production of 2.5 mln tons at Borouge 3, the ccompany's total polyolefin production capacity will be boosted to 4.

For more details on On-time completion of Borouge 3 will position company in top 10 world polyolefin producers click here

Abu Dhabi Refinery plans 10 day maintenance shutdown that will affect naphtha hydrodesulphurization unit

Abu Dhabi Oil Refinery Co. (Takreer), the state-run company, is planning maintenance on a hydro-skimming unit this month. For this, a naphtha hydrodesulphurization unit will be taken offline for aboutt ten days.

For more details on Abu Dhabi Refinery plans 10 day maintenance shutdown that will affect naphtha hydrodesulphurization unit click here

SABIC plans Plastic Applications Development Center at Riyadh

Riyadh -- Saudi Basic Industries CorporationSaudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) plans to set up Plastic Applications Development Center at Riyadh Techno Valley. To be built at an investment ouutlay of SR375 mln, the center will be spread over an area of 110,000 sq mts.

For more details on SABIC plans Plastic Applications Development Center at Riyadh click here

Clariant plans new masterbatch facility in the Russian republic of Tatarstan

In a bid to satiate growing demand in the region, Clariant International plans to start a new masterbatch producing facility in the Russian republic of Tatarstan. A final deision is expected to be reaached by end of the year.

For more details on Clariant plans new masterbatch facility in the Russian republic of Tatarstan click here

Production and sales of core plastics and rubber machinery expected to fall in Europe

Production of core plastics and rubber machinery is expected to fall by over 20% as sales figures plunge by about 30% in 2009. These are estimates by Euromap, that predicts that this decreased producttion will result a decrease in production from its members to €13.

For more details on Production and sales of core plastics and rubber machinery expected to fall in Europe click here

KPC expected to bring down naphtha exports by 30%

Kuwait Petroleum Corp - Kuwait’s state-owned refiner, also Asia's second largest term supplier, plans to have a 30% reduction in its naphtha exports. KPC’s annual naphtha exports pegged at 7-7.5 mln ttpa, are expected to come down to 5 mln tpa.

For more details on KPC expected to bring down naphtha exports by 30% click here

Future of 3 joint cracker projects planned by state-owned Qatar Petroleum undecided

Qatar is scrutinizing possible reservoir behavior when gas production will rise to 20 bln ft3/day in 2012 from 8bn ft3/day in 2008. As a result, various projects, such as the second phases of the Dolpphin and Barzan gas projects have been deferred and a decision on them will be affected by results of the study.

For more details on Future of 3 joint cracker projects planned by state-owned Qatar Petroleum undecided click here

Oil prices at US$72 on encouraging demand growth forecast

Oil prices have shown an uptrend, rising on encouraging demand growth forecast- prices in New York rose to US$72.2, while Brent North Sea crude increased to US$70.4. A report by International Energy AAgency (IEA) states that as the global economy recovers, demand is expected to improve at the end of 2009 and in 2010.

For more details on Oil prices at US$72 on encouraging demand growth forecast click here

Additional bank finance required to fund Haldia Petrochem’s expansion project approved

Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd’s Supermanx project expansion cost that was initially pegged at Rs 675 crore has almost doubled to Rs 1,230 crore due to a time overrun. HPL’s consortium of lender banks had earlier agreed to provide a debt of Rs 600 crore, while the company contributed Rs 230 crore from internal accruals.

For more details on Additional bank finance required to fund Haldia Petrochem’s expansion project approved click here

GPCA launches initiative to challenge protectionist measures by China, India and EU

The regional organization of petrochemical and chemical producers in the Gulf region - Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) has launched an initiative to challenge “protectionist measuures”- in other words ‘anti-dumping procedures’ initiated by China, India and European Union (EU) against exports from countries in the region.

For more details on GPCA launches initiative to challenge protectionist measures by China, India and EU click here

Delay in cracker could compel Qatofin to externally source ethylene for new PE plant

Start up of the Ras Laffan Olefins Co ethane cracker, with capacity to produce 1.3 mln tpa of ethylene has been delayed due to a technical glitch. The ethylene from this cracker was to serve as feedsttock for Qatofin’s linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) plant.

For more details on Delay in cracker could compel Qatofin to externally source ethylene for new PE plant click here

Restart of Polimeri Europa’s 150,000 tpa LDPE plant in Italy delayed

Polimeri Europa’s 150,000 tpa low density polyethylene (LDPE) plant at Gela has been shut since September last week for technical reasons. Restart of the Italian plant has been delayed by 10 days to 220 October.

For more details on Restart of Polimeri Europa’s 150,000 tpa LDPE plant in Italy delayed click here

Ecofriendly substitutes for Polystyrene

Products made from Polystyrene can be made with eco-friendly starch from potatoes, wheat or corn, instead of from petroleum, in turn, reducing dependence on petroleum.
Gregory M. Glenn from Agricultuural Research Service (ARS) and Simon K.

For more details on Ecofriendly substitutes for Polystyrene click here

New Office Bearers elected at AIPMA

The office bearers have changed after elections at All India Plastic Manufacturers Association (AIPMA). The following team has been elected for 2009 :10 :
Dr. Mahendra B. Parmar Prresident
Shri Ashok Agarwal Vice President (East)
Shri Yogesh P.

For more details on New Office Bearers elected at AIPMA click here

Recession, increasingly competitive global market compels US petrochem makers to axe capacity

Recession and an increasingly competitive global market is forcing US petrochemicals producers to axe capacity to drive up operating rates and recover profitability, according to our latest US Petrochhemicals Report by companiesandmarkets.

For more details on Recession, increasingly competitive global market compels US petrochem makers to axe capacity click here

US demand for converted flexible packaging to exceed US$18 billion in 2013

Demand for converted flexible packaging in the US is expected to exceed US$18 bln in 2013, as per Reportlinker. Gains will reflect a rebound in the US economy and will be
supported by cost, performannce and source reduction advantages over most rigid packaging formats.

For more details on US demand for converted flexible packaging to exceed US$18 billion in 2013 click here

Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical successfully starts up paraxylene complex in Shanghai

Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Co., Ltd. has successfully started up a new 600,000 tpa paraxylene complex using UOP process technology at the Sinopec facility in Shanghai. The aromatics project was coompleted in just 30 months from initial kick-off through commissioning, with UOP providing the technology license, basic engineering, equipment packages, and key products.

For more details on Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical successfully starts up paraxylene complex in Shanghai click here

Polyolefin prices revised downward in India

Reliance Industries has announced a downward prices revision for PP and PE with effect from October 8, 2009.
BOPP prices are to be reduced by Rs 2000/MT
All other grades of Polypropylene will be rreduced by Rs 3000/MT.

For more details on Polyolefin prices revised downward in India click here

Novel polymer can travel into cells, deliver genetic cargo, allows tracking

A research team has developed a new polymer that can travel into cells, deliver genetic cargo, and packs a beacon so scientists can follow its movements in living systems.
The scientists created novvel polycations.

For more details on Novel polymer can travel into cells, deliver genetic cargo, allows tracking click here

Oil & Natural Gas Corp sells 35,000 ton naphtha cargo at premium of US$8

India’s Oil & Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) had offered only one naphtha cargo of 35,000 tons for end-October. The Indian major has realised a premium of eight dollars on the cargo, about half of its previoous realisation.

For more details on Oil & Natural Gas Corp sells 35,000 ton naphtha cargo at premium of US$8 click here

Long time before petrochemical output recovers to pre-recession levels in UK

Petrochemicals had passed a nadir in mid-2009, but BMI’s latest UK Petrochemicals Report forecasts that it will take some years for output to recover to pre-recession levels and during that time some plants will be permanently shut with potentially devastating consequences for entire production chains.

For more details on Long time before petrochemical output recovers to pre-recession levels in UK click here

German petrochemicals market to greatly stabilise in H2-09 but sales, output to dip 12.5%

Germany’s petrochemicals market will see greater stability in H2-09 but it will remain in a trough, with BMI’s latest Germany Petrochemicals Report forecasting a 12.5% decline in both sales and outputt in 2009.

For more details on German petrochemicals market to greatly stabilise in H2-09 but sales, output to dip 12.5% click here

Global PVC demand declined by 8% in 2008, expected to decrease further in 2009

Worldwide PVC demand declined by 8% in 2008, and is expected to decrease further in 2009 as per a report by CMAI. Typically, PVC demand tracks GDP, albeit at a slightly faster pace, during periods of both positive and negative GDP growth.

For more details on Global PVC demand declined by 8% in 2008, expected to decrease further in 2009 click here

Borouge awards FEED contract to Jacobs Abu Dhabi Polymer Plant

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. has been awarded a contract by Abu Dhabi Polymers Company (Borouge) to develop front-end engineering and design (FEED) for a section of the "Borouge 3" project, a grassrooots polypropylene/polyethylene facility in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

For more details on Borouge awards FEED contract to Jacobs Abu Dhabi Polymer Plant click here

IG Petrochemicals plans a routine maintenance shutdown at a PA plant

IG Petrochemicals has planned a two week shutdown at one of its PA plant at Taloja, Maharashtra to carry out routine maintenance activities. Sufficient stockpiles of PA with the company will ensure smmooth supplies to the customers during the period of shutdown.

For more details on IG Petrochemicals plans a routine maintenance shutdown at a PA plant click here

Thai petrochemical majors deliberate court injunction against 76 industrial projects

Serious concern has been expressed by Thai petrochem majors over the delay of their 25 projects to meet the Euro IV emission standard. These projects are planned by 8 companies at a combined investmennt outlay of Bt120 bln - particularly the sixth gas-separation plant and the project.

For more details on Thai petrochemical majors deliberate court injunction against 76 industrial projects click here

PEEK Polymer Expands Orthopaedic Material Options

A polymer that expands the boundaries of orthopaedic applications such as joint arthroplasty has been introduced by high-performance biomaterials provider Invibio. So far, the design of arthroscopic ddevices and their performance capabilities have been limited by the strength and stiffness characteristics of the metals, ceramics and polymers used in their fabrication.

For more details on PEEK Polymer Expands Orthopaedic Material Options click here

SABIC IP receives award for eco-responsible iQ resin

SABIC Innovative Plastics’ environmentally progressive iQ* resin platform has received the 2009 Responsible Care® Award at the Conseil Européen des Fédérations de l'Industrie Chimique1 (Cefic) Annual General Assembly ceremony in Lisbon, Portugal.

For more details on SABIC IP receives award for eco-responsible iQ resin click here

Petrochemical plants in Indonesia unaffected by earthquakes

Petrochemical plants in Indonesia continued to run smoothly despite two deadly earthquakes that rocked Sumatra island, as per ICIS.
A 6.8-magnitude quake occurred on Thursday at 9:31 am local time (00131 GMT) 96 miles northwest of Bengkulu, less than 24 hours after a major earthquake struck Padang city in western Sumatra.

For more details on Petrochemical plants in Indonesia unaffected by earthquakes click here

Global demand pharmaceutical packaging to rise 5.3% pa through 2013

Global demand for pharmaceutical packaging will rise 5.3% pa to over US$47 billion in 2013 as per a report by Freedonia.
The developed countries of Western Europe, the US and Japan will continue to account for nearly three-fourths of this amount.

For more details on Global demand pharmaceutical packaging to rise 5.3% pa through 2013 click here

After spiking to this weeks high, naphtha prices eased in Asia

A day after spiking to the weeks highest level, naphtha prices in Asia eased over the weekend and naphtha cracks saw a marginal uptrend. However, outlook is considered to be pessimistic on muted demannd with the onset of the holiday week in China and South Korea.

For more details on After spiking to this weeks high, naphtha prices eased in Asia click here

UK recycling of plastics packaging rose 2% in 2008

Despite the economic crisis, UK recycling of plastics packaging rose 2% from 24 to 26% in 2008, according to a report in plasticseurope.org. This group represents European plastics industry and plastiics recyclers.

For more details on UK recycling of plastics packaging rose 2% in 2008 click here

India's petrochem capacities to double in next 5 years, domestic and export markets set to recover

Indian domestic petrochemicals demand slowed considerably in 2008-09 while exports were hit by the global financial crisis, but the latest India Petrochemicals Report projects domestic petrochemicals production capacities more than doubling in the next five years with domestic and export markets set to recover strongly as per a new market research report on companiesandmarkets.

For more details on India's petrochem capacities to double in next 5 years, domestic and export markets set to recover click here

China's petrochem industry likely to witness beginning of recovery in H2-09

Bolstered by modest signs of domestic demand revival spurred on by a massive government stimulus program, the Chinese petrochemicals industry is likely to witness the beginning of a recovery in outputt in H2-09, according to BMI's latest China Petrochemicals Report.

For more details on China's petrochem industry likely to witness beginning of recovery in H2-09 click here

Union Carbide completes divestiture in Optimal Group to Petronas

Union Carbide, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dow, has completed the divestiture of its ownership in the Optimal Group to Petronas for an equity value of US$660 mln. The proceeds from this transaction wwill be used for further debt reduction, in-line with the company's de-leveraging plan.

For more details on Union Carbide completes divestiture in Optimal Group to Petronas click here

US ethylene market reaches a long-awaited three-month settlement

The US ethylene market reached a long-awaited three-month settlement on Thursday, putting September contract prices at 34.50 cents/lb ($761/ton; €517/ton), as per ICIS pricing. Monomer settled down 3..

For more details on US ethylene market reaches a long-awaited three-month settlement click here

Borouge to advance mega expansion plans despite global credit tightness

In a bid to meet demand from Asia, Borouge plans to move ahead with its mega expansion projects despite the global credit tightness. Production capacity is planned to be augmented to 4.5 mln tons of ppolyolefins by 2013.

For more details on Borouge to advance mega expansion plans despite global credit tightness click here

Petron continues downstream expansion in Philippines

Despite the difficult business climate, the Philippines’ oil refiner Petron continues its downstream expansion, according to the latest Philippines Petrochemicals Report. companiesandmarkets.com. Petrron is optimistic about the industry’s profitability and intends to boost its petrochemicals production, according to reports in June 2009.

For more details on Petron continues downstream expansion in Philippines click here

Sibur agrees to initial funding for Russia's largest polypropylene complex

Leading Russian petrochemicals company Sibur Holding has agreed to the nitial funding amounting of US$153 mln for Russia's largest polypropylene complex. The 500,000 tpa PP complex is to be located inn Tobolsk in the Tyumen region.

For more details on Sibur agrees to initial funding for Russia's largest polypropylene complex click here

Global demand for converted flexible packaging to cross 19 mln tons in 2013

Global demand for converted flexible packaging is forecast to grow by 3.5% pa to more than 19 mln tons in 2013, according to a study by Freedonia. Plastic films, which account for nearly 75% of globall converted flexible packaging demand, will continue to grow at the expense of paper and aluminum foil.

For more details on Global demand for converted flexible packaging to cross 19 mln tons in 2013 click here

Packaging, Construction and Tourism continue to boost South African Commodity Plastics market

Fluctuating commodity prices and the small market size have significant knock-on effects on the South African commodity plastics industry, consequently resulting in a major price pressure for supplierrs.

For more details on Packaging, Construction and Tourism continue to boost South African Commodity Plastics market click here

Sales volume of Brazilian petrochemicals industry better than global levels

Compared to global markets, the Brazilian petrochemicals industry is faring relatively well in terms of sales volumes, but product prices have fallen at a faster rate than the decline in feedstock cossts up the supply chain and consequently margins are under considerable pressure.

For more details on Sales volume of Brazilian petrochemicals industry better than global levels click here

Single serve packages to drive rigid plastic packaging global growth to 22%

The growing popularity of single-serving packages such as plastic bottles, cups and containers in a wider range of food applications; will help to drive global demand for rigid plastic packaging to 222% from US$129.

For more details on Single serve packages to drive rigid plastic packaging global growth to 22% click here

Sinopec plans to double ethylene output to 2 mln tpa at Maoming

The Chinese government has recently adjusted a fuel-pricing system to include crude oil costs and a profit for refiners. Keeping this in mind, and in a bid to meet growing fuel demand in the southern province of Guangdong, the nation’s manufacturing hub, Sinopec (China Petroleum & Chemical Corp.

For more details on Sinopec plans to double ethylene output to 2 mln tpa at Maoming click here

Total plans to start steam cracker in mid-December

An explosion had impacted Total Petrochemical’s cracker in Carling in July, resulting in its shutdown. One unit of the plant was mothballed earlier this year as part of a broad plan to reduce capacityy.

For more details on Total plans to start steam cracker in mid-December click here

BPA, phthalates to be reviewed to change method of scrutiny of potentially dangerous substances in USA

The Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 provides US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with authority to require reporting, record-keeping and testing requirements, and restrictions relating to chhemical substances and/or mixtures.

For more details on BPA, phthalates to be reviewed to change method of scrutiny of potentially dangerous substances in USA click here

Demand and supply of BOPP film to see strongest growth in Dubai, India, China

Demand and supply of bi-oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film is set to see strongest growth in nations such as Dubai, India and China as the current order in the sector swings from West to East, as per a report by PCI Films Consulting.

For more details on Demand and supply of BOPP film to see strongest growth in Dubai, India, China click here

Court order for suspension of operations at Map Ta Phut to impact Siam Cement

A court order has been issued to several firms to suspend operations at the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate. Thailand’s leading industrial conglomerate - Siam Cement’s new olefins plant will be impactedd by this order.

For more details on Court order for suspension of operations at Map Ta Phut to impact Siam Cement click here

Formosa Plastics Corp. of Texas and Louisiana to pay US$2.8 mln in civil penalties

Formosa Plastics Corp. of Texas and Formosa Plastics Corp. of Louisiana are to pay US$2.8 mln in civil penalties as part of its settlement announced by the Justice Department and Environmental Protecttion Agency.

For more details on Formosa Plastics Corp. of Texas and Louisiana to pay US$2.8 mln in civil penalties click here

Jacobs Engg Group receives contract from Abu Dhabi Polymers Co. for Borouge 3 project

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. has received a contract from Abu Dhabi Polymers Co. for a petrochemical plant in the United Arab Emirates. Jacobs will develop front-end engineering and design for a secttion of the "Borouge 3" project, a polypropylene-polyethylene facility in Abu Dhabi.

For more details on Jacobs Engg Group receives contract from Abu Dhabi Polymers Co. for Borouge 3 project click here

Kuwait revives talks with BP to partner in US$9 bln JV planned with Sinopec Corp

Kuwait has restored discussions with BP as a potential partner in a US$9 bln joint venture refinery being planned with China's Sinopec Corp. After initial approval in 2006, Kuwait looks forward to finnal approval from China.

For more details on Kuwait revives talks with BP to partner in US$9 bln JV planned with Sinopec Corp click here

Tailor-made polyurethane elastomer systems for American freight, passenger railway systems

The Dow Chemical Company will launch a portfolio of proven technologies for North American freight and passenger railway systems with it’s tailor-made polyurethane elastomer systems. By reinforcing bballast and controlling shock and vibration, Dow’s technologies help to increase railway service life, improve passenger safety and comfort, and reduce noise pollution.

For more details on Tailor-made polyurethane elastomer systems for American freight, passenger railway systems click here

Supreme Petrochem to market Ultrabatch SRL's additives for agriculture and horticulture

India’s leading polystyrene producer Supreme Petrochem has inked an MOU with Italian chemicals maker Ultrabatch SRL to market their high end additive masterbatches for agriculture and horticulture in India.

For more details on Supreme Petrochem to market Ultrabatch SRL's additives for agriculture and horticulture click here

New copolymer combines properties of polyamides with those of polyolefins

Apolhya is a new polymer family that combines the properties of polyamides with those of polyolefins. It offers thermal stability that beats that of polyolefins as well as greater flexibility than connventional polyamides and good impact resistance.

For more details on New copolymer combines properties of polyamides with those of polyolefins click here

Marginal improvement in naphtha cracks in Asia despite weak sentiments

Naphtha prices and cracks that had fallen in Asia to eight week lows, have seen a marginal recovery. However, weak market sentiment intensified due to falling petrochemical prices as buying is sluggissh ahead of the week-long holidays in China
amid new supplies from the Middle East and China.

For more details on Marginal improvement in naphtha cracks in Asia despite weak sentiments click here

Antistatic grades that offer higher conductivity and impart a very low surface resistance

Arkema has added two antistatic grades of Pebax resin - Pebax MH2030 and MV2080, which offer even higher conductivity and impart a very low surface resistance into the range of 106 Ohms. Applications such as the packaging of sensitive electronics or industrial packaging for flammable or explosive materials require plastics with high static dissipative performance as well and good mechanical and optical properties.

For more details on Antistatic grades that offer higher conductivity and impart a very low surface resistance click here

Ineos to expand range of polyolefins for medical devices

Ineos is in the process of expanding its range of polyolefins for medical devices with the offering of EltexMED PP, HDPE and LDPE grades, compliant with European Pharmacopeia regulations.
The LDPE ggrade is suitable for blow-fill-seal, film and IM solutions, the HDPE for syringes and rigid pharmaceutical packaging, and the PP for inhalers, syringes, medical pouches and IM applications.

For more details on Ineos to expand range of polyolefins for medical devices click here

Thai PTT’s new unit delayed, month long ethane cracker maintenance defered

The start up of Thai PTT Chemical Co’s new 800,000 tpa ethane cracker has been delayed from Q4-09 to Q1-10. The shutdown of the existing unit was planned to coincide with the trial runs of the new craacker so as to be able to allocate the ethane feedstock from the old cracker towards the new one.

For more details on Thai PTT’s new unit delayed, month long ethane cracker maintenance defered click here

Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 28, 2009

CRUDE OIL
Crude oil prices have dipped by about 5 dollars in the week of September 28, 2009. Prices plummeted midweek as the US dollar weakened, and as a report released data of unexpected increase in inventory levels in USA.

For more details on Price trends of oil, polymer feedstock and commodity polymers in Asia for the week ended September 28, 2009 click here