Asian Development Bank approves loan and political risk guarantee of US$400 mln for Uzbekistan’s largest-ever petrochemical plant

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a loan and political risk guarantee totaling up to $400 million to help build the largest-ever petrochemical plant in Uzbekistan.
The Surgil Natural Gass Chemicals Project will produce gas for commercial use and for conversion into chemical intermediates used in the plastics and textiles industries.

For more details on Asian Development Bank approves loan and political risk guarantee of US$400 mln for Uzbekistan’s largest-ever petrochemical plant click here

Naphtha cracks in Asia at highest in 8-1/2 months

Asia's naphtha price and intermonth spreads were at their highest in about two weeks on Thursday, as per Reuters. Cracks rose to an 8-1/2 month high as tighter supplies in Europe were expected to impaact the East, which is structurally short of the light fuel.

For more details on Naphtha cracks in Asia at highest in 8-1/2 months click here

Albemarle installs new production train for finished polyolefin catalysts and supporting auxiliaries

Abemarle Corporation has successfully completed the latest expansion of its Process Development Center (PDC) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana by installing a new production train for finished polyolefin cataalysts and a number of supporting auxiliaries.

For more details on Albemarle installs new production train for finished polyolefin catalysts and supporting auxiliaries click here

Petrochem makers in South Korea to invest US$6.7 bln in 2012 on facility upgrades

South Korea's petrochemical makers plan to invest Won 7.5 trillion (US$6.7 bln) in 2012 on upgrade and expansion of production facilities, up 2.7% from estimated investments of Won 7.3 trillion last yyear, the Korea Petrochemical Industry Association said Thursday.

For more details on Petrochem makers in South Korea to invest US$6.7 bln in 2012 on facility upgrades click here

High Performance drives growth for agricultural films

The increasing importance of plastics in the area of agriculture and horticulture has been highlighted in a new in-depth report on the Agricultural films market in Europe by Applied Market Informationn Ltd.

For more details on High Performance drives growth for agricultural films click here

Import offers may regain interest in India

In line with the global upturn, import cargoes have been offered to India with increases, as per ChemOrbis. Nevertheless, there was not much interest for these offers up until a short while ago due tto weak demand, sufficient local stocks and weak local currency.

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Poor visibility caused by fog compels Houston Ship Channel pilots to suspend vessel traffic

Houston Ship Channel pilots have suspended boarding of both inbound and outbound vessels due to poor visibility caused by fog, as per Platts. Not many inbound and outbound vessels have so far been afffected by the suspension.

For more details on Poor visibility caused by fog compels Houston Ship Channel pilots to suspend vessel traffic click here

Tensions mount as EU agrees to ban crude imports from Iran, oil prices rise

Brent March crude rose to US$ 110.5, while March crude rose to US$99.3. A decision by the European Union to ban imports of Iranian crude from July and a fresh threat by Iran to close the Strait of Horrmuz shipping channel has pushed up oil prices amid a weak dollar.

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Penford and Novomer to partner to drive development and commercialization of innovative sustainable packaging materials

Penford Corporation, a company with significant business and expertise in specialty starches and sustainable bio-products and Novomer Inc., a new materials company pioneering a family of high-performaance plastics and polymers using renewable feedstocks such as carbon dioxide, announce that they have entered into a Joint Development Agreement that will leverage the two companies’ core technologies and expertise.

For more details on Penford and Novomer to partner to drive development and commercialization of innovative sustainable packaging materials click here

Supreme Petrochem reports net loss of Rs 7.25 crore for quarter ended December 31

Leading polystyrene producer Supreme Petrochem (SPL) has reported a net loss of Rs 7.25 crore for the quarter ended December 31 amid higher cost of inputs and lower demand for end products. A profit of Rs 15.

For more details on Supreme Petrochem reports net loss of Rs 7.25 crore for quarter ended December 31 click here

Propylene costs maintain upward rally on global scale

Monomer prices in global markets have been strong since the beginning of this year and continue to provide support for rising polymer markets, as per ChemOrbis. Among these monomers, spot propylene prrices recorded noticeable increases in major markets including Asia, Europe and the US over the past week mainly due to strong naphtha markets.

For more details on Propylene costs maintain upward rally on global scale click here

Explosion at LyondellBasell's Wesseling site

LyondellBasell's Wesseling site Germany has been hit by an explosion over the weekend, as per Platts. The blast occurred on Saturday morning at the polyethylene plants. The cause of the blast is now tthe subject of an investigation by the company and local authorities.

For more details on Explosion at LyondellBasell's Wesseling site click here

Update on global polyolefins scenario

The global demand for thermoplastics is expected to grow by around 100,000 tons by 2015, driven by the developing economies. Polyethylene comprises 35% of this market and polypropylene is 24%, accordiing to leading market consultant Noru Tsalic of Applied Market Information (AMI).

For more details on Update on global polyolefins scenario click here

Q3 net profit rises 13% on higher petrochemical, cooking gas output

GAIL (India) Ltd. beat analysts' expectations with a 13% rise in quarterly net profit, as an increase in output of petrochemicals and cooking gas offset higher subsidy payout and flat natural gas trannsmission volume.

For more details on Q3 net profit rises 13% on higher petrochemical, cooking gas output click here

EU mulls embargo on Iran's oil exports as the West ramps up pressure over Iran's suspected nuclear drive

European Union prepares to enforce an embargo on Iran's oil exports as the West ramps up pressure over Iran's suspected nuclear drive. EU plans to strengthen existing sanctions by ban of imports of Irranian crude as well as targeting finance, petrochemicals and gold Tehran has been urged to return to negotiations.

For more details on EU mulls embargo on Iran's oil exports as the West ramps up pressure over Iran's suspected nuclear drive click here

Update on Keyuan Petrochemicals Inc's first SBS line

Keyuan Petrochemicals Inc. has announced that one of its production lines for Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) has commenced commercial production after successful trial production and testing in Q4-20011.

For more details on Update on Keyuan Petrochemicals Inc's first SBS line click here

Arkema restructures its Functional Polyolefin range

As part of a drive to optimize its functional polyolefin range, Arkema announces that it is to discontinue its Evatane® 33-15 (High Content Ethylene - Vinyl Acetate Copolymers) and Lotryl® 14MG02 (Ethhylene – Acrylate Copolymers) grades.

For more details on Arkema restructures its Functional Polyolefin range click here

Ethylene output falls by 4.7% in 2011- a larger fall than seen in 2008

Domestic production of ethylene, a key material for various petrochemical products, in 2011 fell 4.7% from the previous year to 6.69 mln tons, falling below the 6.88 mln tons marked in 2008 when the sso-called Lehman Shock affected production.

For more details on Ethylene output falls by 4.7% in 2011- a larger fall than seen in 2008 click here

US$64.1 bln to be spent globally on petrochemical infrastructure in 2012

Petrochemical infrastructure development is driven by growth in newly industrialised nations turning to the production of polymer products, and those which have a high demand for fertilisers and fuel additives, as per a report by Visiongain.

For more details on US$64.1 bln to be spent globally on petrochemical infrastructure in 2012 click here

Cracker run rates in Europe slowly improve as olefins rebound

As olefin prices rebound, cracker run rates in Europe have gradually improved in January, but are still at a reduced level of around 80%, as per Platts. In January, ethylene contract prices rose Eur 440/mt to Eur 1120/mt FD NWE from December, while propylene increased Eur 20/mt to Eur1105/mt FD NWE.

For more details on Cracker run rates in Europe slowly improve as olefins rebound click here

Taiwan's CPC Corp restarts 380,000 tpa No. 4 naphtha cracker

Taiwan's CPC Corp has restarted its 380,000 tpa No. 4 naphtha cracker this week following a routine maintenance, but operational rates will be kept low, as per Reuters. The unit was shut in December ffor maintenance and restarted on Thursday but runs at the unit will stay below full-tilt due to sluggish demand in the Lunar New Year period.

For more details on Taiwan's CPC Corp restarts 380,000 tpa No. 4 naphtha cracker click here

Naphtha prices rise in Europe after recent loading disruptions in the Mediterranean

Naphtha prices in Europe rose in the window after recent loading disruptions in the Mediterranean caused by bad weather during the past month, after a weak end of the year; as well as Asian demand lennt support, although petchem users in Europe continue to prefer cheaper propane as feedstock.

For more details on Naphtha prices rise in Europe after recent loading disruptions in the Mediterranean click here

The polymer industry in India is expected to see steady growth

The polymer industry in India is expected to see steady growth in the future, as Netscribes (India) Pvt. Ltd. Per capita consumption of polymers is still low compared to developed nations which bringss with it a latent opportunity for the sector to grow.

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Sinopec and Saudi Aramco ink JV for ongoing development of YASREF Ltd.

China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec Group) and Saudi Aramco have signed a joint venture agreement related to the ongoing development of Yanbu Aramco Sinopec Refining Company (YASREF) Limited, forrmerly the Red Sea Refining Company.

For more details on Sinopec and Saudi Aramco ink JV for ongoing development of YASREF Ltd. click here

Oil prices rise in Asia

Brent North Sea crude for March delivery has inched up to US$ 111.25, rising in Asia on news that the International Monetary Fund is increasing its firepower to aid in crisis intervention. The IMF plaans to raise US$500 bln more to increase its ability to help countries in financial trouble.

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Formosa buys around 75,000 tons of naphtha for February to March

Taiwan's Formosa Petrochemical has bought around 75,000 tons of naphtha for February to March arrival, bringing its total purchases since mid-December to over 350,000 tons, as per Reuters. Premium of US$1/ton to Japan quotes on a cost-and-freight (C&F) basis,paid on this was lower than the US$3/ton paid for a previous cargo.

For more details on Formosa buys around 75,000 tons of naphtha for February to March click here

Increased feedstock, rising demand continue to buoy PP prices in Northwest Europe

Higher feedstock cost and increased demand continue to buoy polypropylene prices in Northwest Europe this week, with rises in contract prices exceeding the January feedstock propylene pass-through of plus Eur 20/mt (US$26/mt), as per Platts.

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China’s polymer markets enter the holidays on a firm note

Chinese players report that they are holding generally bullish expectations about the post-holiday period as spot monomer prices have moved higher over the course of the month while energy prices havee held firm, as per ChemOrbis.

For more details on China’s polymer markets enter the holidays on a firm note click here

Keyuan Petrochemicals signs investment agreement with local government in Guangxi

Keyuan Petrochemicals, Inc., an independent manufacturer and supplier of various petrochemical products in China, has signed a cooperation agreement with Fangchenggang City to build a new production ffacility in Guangxi Province.

For more details on Keyuan Petrochemicals signs investment agreement with local government in Guangxi click here

Naphtha prices in Europe rise on a tighter market

Premium unleaded gasoline and naphtha prices rose in northwest Europe on Wednesday on signs of the market tightening after news that Hovensa will close its 350,000 bpd refinery in the U.S. Virgin Islaands by mid-February, as per Reuters.

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Revolution celebrations cloud polymer demand in Egypt

In 2011, the Egyptian people took to the streets in order to bring democratic change to the country by unseating the president Hosni Mubarek, who ruled the country for nearly 30 years, as per ChemOrbiis.

For more details on Revolution celebrations cloud polymer demand in Egypt click here

Thai IRPC sells heavy naphtha at a premium

IRPC Pcl (IRPC) is reported to have sold a cargo of heavy naphtha at a premium of US$55-60/ton over benchmark Japan prices, as per Bloomberg. The shipment, which was sold earlier this week, contains aabout 30,000 tons for loading from Rayong, Thailand, in February.

For more details on Thai IRPC sells heavy naphtha at a premium click here

Naphtha cracks firm up in Asia on demand from South Korea, and Taiwan, Iran concerns

Naphtha prices in Asia rose to a 3 session high on Wednesday with cracks reaching a 5 session high on demand from Taiwan followed by demand from South Korea, as per Reuters. Formosa, Honam and YNCC weere heard to be seeking volumes.

For more details on Naphtha cracks firm up in Asia on demand from South Korea, and Taiwan, Iran concerns click here

Indonesia’s first Butadiene plant inaugurated

Indonesia’s first ever Butadiene plant was inaugurated in Cilegon, Banten, as per The Jakarta Post. “The plant’s production capacity is 100,000 tons a year,” the ministry’s press release stated as quooted bykompas.

For more details on Indonesia’s first Butadiene plant inaugurated click here

Integrated aromatics complex in South Korea first to employ UOP’s latest energy-efficient designs

UOP LLC, a Honeywell company, announced that it has been selected by Samsung Total Petrochemicals Co., Ltd. to provide technologies for the production of key petrochemicals and high-quality diesel andd jet fuel at its complex in Daesan, South Korea.

For more details on Integrated aromatics complex in South Korea first to employ UOP’s latest energy-efficient designs click here

Novomer to collaborate on polymer composites

Materials company Novomer Inc. has inked a joint development agreement on polymer composites with Penford Corp. of Colorado with the aim to speed the development and commercialization of starch-polyprropylene carbonate polymer composites.

For more details on Novomer to collaborate on polymer composites click here

Light olefins demand in Europe and Middle East expected to grow at CAGR of 3.4%

The light olefins market in Europe and Middle East has seen a rapid increase in demand over the past decade. The demand light olefins by volume increased from 28.7 mln tons to 41.8 mln tons between 20000 and 2010, with a CAGR of 3.

For more details on Light olefins demand in Europe and Middle East expected to grow at CAGR of 3.4% click here

Oversupply to persist in N Sea propane market despite sales to petrochemicals

The North Sea propane market is considered oversupplied despite sales into the petrochemicals sector, as per Platts. North Sea propane is historically used as a heating fuel during the winter period, but this winter the lack of a sustained period of cold weather has reduced requirements for the heating sector and left some unplaced cargoes over the end January-early February period.

For more details on Oversupply to persist in N Sea propane market despite sales to petrochemicals click here

Substitution of Polystyrene by PP and PET to impact growth in developed regions

The global styrene market is expected to achieve a compounded annual growth rate of 6.6% until 2020, as per GBI Research. Demand for styrene globally has increased from 17,298,363 tons in the year 20000 to 21,657,608 tons in 2010.

For more details on Substitution of Polystyrene by PP and PET to impact growth in developed regions click here

Japan Idemitsu shuts Tokuyama crackers for few days

Idemitsu Kosan Co has shut two naphtha crackers at its Tokuyama plant, with total capacity of 623,000 tpa of ethylene on Tuesday night due to an unspecified problem, as per Reuters. Repairs are underwway and operations are expected to resume within a few days.

For more details on Japan Idemitsu shuts Tokuyama crackers for few days click here

Early talk of Feb price hikes prevail in Italy’s polymer markets

Italy’s PP, PVC and PE markets have been registering monthly price increases for January business, as per Chemorbis. These polymer hikes have followed higher monomer contracts in Europe at the start oof 2012.

For more details on Early talk of Feb price hikes prevail in Italy’s polymer markets click here

Higher production costs push PET prices steadily up in Turkey

Since end 2011, spot feedstock prices have been on a bullish note resulting in steady increases in Turkey’s PET market since start of the new year, as per ChemOrbis. Both import and local PET prices rrecorded week over week increases in the period, while domestic producers also took a firm stance on their prices amid signals of slightly better demand in the first week of 2012.

For more details on Higher production costs push PET prices steadily up in Turkey click here

Naphtha price dips, cracks marginally up in Asia

Naphtha prices in Asia were at its lowest in eight sessions on Monday, while naphtha cracks arose marginally by less than 1%. Some traders opine that while supply tightness was gradually easing it wass not completely resolved, as per Reuters.

For more details on Naphtha price dips, cracks marginally up in Asia click here

Europe’s petrochem producers to benefit from the subsidies’ dispute stalling gasoline imports into Nigeria

Petrochemicals producers in Europe are likely to benefit from the row over subsidies that has stalled imports of gasoline into Nigeria. The situation may lower the price of the naphtha used both as a key petrochemicals input and for making the motor fuel, as per Reuters.

For more details on Europe’s petrochem producers to benefit from the subsidies’ dispute stalling gasoline imports into Nigeria click here

QPI to invest in Vietnam's Long Son petchem plant

Qatar Petroleum International (QPI) plans to buy a 25% stake in the US$4 bln Long Son petrochemical project in Vietnam, as per senior executive of Petrovietnam as reported by Reuters. "We will establiish a joint venture to build the complex," Do Van Hau, Petrovietnam chief executive officer said after signing an investment agreement with QPI officials.

For more details on QPI to invest in Vietnam's Long Son petchem plant click here

SABIC and Sinopec sign Protocol of Cooperation to explore new opportunities

Under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, and in the presence of China Prime Minister Wen Jiabao, the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and the Chiina Petroleum and Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) signed a Protocol of Cooperation in Riyadh to explore new business opportunities and confirm their commitment to the principles reached in earlier agreements, including one on polycarbonate collaboration which has been approved by China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

For more details on SABIC and Sinopec sign Protocol of Cooperation to explore new opportunities click here

New petrochemical process to use Marcellus Gas future plant targeted for the Tri-state region

Pittsburgh’s own Renewable Manufacturing Gateway (RMG) has signed a Letter of Engagement (LOE) with Aither Chemicals LLC (Aither). RMG and Aither have agreed to collaborate to finance and build a largge chemical plant using Aither’s ethane catalytic cracker technology.

For more details on New petrochemical process to use Marcellus Gas future plant targeted for the Tri-state region click here

Polymera brings 60 mln lbs WPC Compounding facility on-line

Polymera Inc., producer of wood and natural fiber polymer composite compounds, announced that the company has added 60 mln lbs of WPC compound capacity at their central Ohio facility. The 160,000 sq. ft.

For more details on Polymera brings 60 mln lbs WPC Compounding facility on-line click here

Certification to produce fda-compliant, biocompatible resins for SABIC plants in Brazil and Argentina

SABIC’s Innovative Plastics business today announced that its manufacturing facilities in Campinas, Brazil and Tortuguitas, Argentina, are now certified to produce U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FFDA)-compliant and biocompatible resins for the fast-growing South American healthcare market to help slash lead times, reduce inventory costs and increase flexibility in material purchasing.

For more details on Certification to produce fda-compliant, biocompatible resins for SABIC plants in Brazil and Argentina click here

Production resumed at controversial Fujia Petrochemical PX plant in Dalian, shut since August?

The controversial Fujia Petrochemical PX plant in Dalian is believed to have quietly resumed production just months after officials promised to halt operations and move the facility, as per The Guarddian.

For more details on Production resumed at controversial Fujia Petrochemical PX plant in Dalian, shut since August? click here

More transparent extrusion blowmolding PP grade for baby bottles could replace PC

Borealis has launched a more transparent extrusion blowmolding grade of polypropylene (PP) specifically designed for cosmetics and baby bottles, with an eye on capturing market share forsaken by polyccarbonate (PC), which continues to deal with concerns around bisphenol A (BPA).

For more details on More transparent extrusion blowmolding PP grade for baby bottles could replace PC click here

Western ethylene oxide producers lose competition to Asian suppliers

Countries in Asia and Middle-East are enjoying the booming industries that propel the world ethylene oxide market. These developing markets are forecast to witness 5-6% ethylene oxide activity growth,, pulled by a large number of new projects and brand-new facilities as per a report by Merchant Research & Consulting Ltd.

For more details on Western ethylene oxide producers lose competition to Asian suppliers click here

AMEC awarded £70 mln asset support contracts by SABIC UK Petrochemicals

AMEC, the international engineering and project management company, has been awarded two asset support contracts by chemical giant SABIC UK Petrochemicals Limited. The first is a £30 mln asset supportt contract for plant turnaround services for SABIC's petrochemicals assets at Wilton and North Tees in the North East of England.

For more details on AMEC awarded £70 mln asset support contracts by SABIC UK Petrochemicals click here

Rise in European polyethylene prices amid bullish feedstock ethylene

European polyethylene contract as well as spot prices surged this week, supported by bullish ethylene, as per Platts. Spot prices of feedstock ethylene have surged this week following historic low craacker margins touched last week.

For more details on Rise in European polyethylene prices amid bullish feedstock ethylene click here

Asian PP prices firm on stronger propylene, upcoming shutdowns

Spot PP prices gained ground over the past week in China and Southeast Asia as propylene feedstock costs recorded strong gains ahead of the annual cracker maintenance season in Asia, as per ChemOrbis..

For more details on Asian PP prices firm on stronger propylene, upcoming shutdowns click here

Chinese players share their outlook on the year ahead

Players in China’s polymer markets are expressing mixed forecasts for 2012. While there is general agreement that upstream costs will continue to support polymer prices, players hold divergent opinioons about the macroeconomic outlook, as per ChemOrbis.

For more details on Chinese players share their outlook on the year ahead click here

European polyethylene prices advance on support from bullish feedstock

Finding support from bullish ethylene, European polyethylene contract and spot prices advanced this week, as per Platts. This week’s surge in spot ethylene prices follows historic low cracker margins touched last week.

For more details on European polyethylene prices advance on support from bullish feedstock click here

31% yoy rise expected in China's petrochemical output in 2011

China's petrochemical sector is expected to post a 31% y-o-y rise in the value of its output to Yuan 11.2 trillion (US$1.7 trillion) in 2011 when figures for the year are collated, as per the China Peetroleum and Chemical Industry Federation reported by Xinhua.

For more details on 31% yoy rise expected in China's petrochemical output in 2011 click here

Spread between SM and benzene narrows to lowest level in 9 months on rising benzene

The spread between styrene monomer and its feedstock benzene narrowed to US$224/mt in Asia, the lowest level in nine months, mainly because of fast-rising benzene prices, as per Platts. On April 25, tthe spread was US$317/mt.

For more details on Spread between SM and benzene narrows to lowest level in 9 months on rising benzene click here

Andhra Pradesh state inks MoUs over 60,000 cr for funding refineries, petrochemicals complex

Memorandums of understanding (MoUs) for projects worth Rs 1,00,000 crore were signed on the opening day of Andhra Pradesh’s Partnership Summit.
Two big proposals are from the GMR group- from GMR Holldings for a Rs 30,000 crore refinery-cum-petrochemicals complex.

For more details on Andhra Pradesh state inks MoUs over 60,000 cr for funding refineries, petrochemicals complex click here

State Government grants incentives to two oil refineries proposed in Andhra Pradesh PCPIR

The State Government has issued controversial orders granting a string of incentives to two oil refineries proposed in Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemical Investment Region (PCPIR) developed betweeen Visakhapatnam and Kakinada.

For more details on State Government grants incentives to two oil refineries proposed in Andhra Pradesh PCPIR click here

BASF and Sinopec inaugurate US$1.4 bln second phase of Nanjing integrated petrochemical site

BASF and Sinopec have inaugurated the US$1.4 bln second phase of their integrated petrochemical site in Nanjing, which includes expansions of existing plants and construction of new facilities. BASF-YYPC Co.

For more details on BASF and Sinopec inaugurate US$1.4 bln second phase of Nanjing integrated petrochemical site click here

Flexible extruders for thermoforming sheet lines on the advance

Reifenhäuser EXTRUSION is recording a remarkable increase in incoming orders for thermoforming sheet extrusion lines featuring production capacities between 700 and 1500 kgs/hr. Ten lines of this typee used for the production of drinking cups and deli containers of polypropylene (PP) and cups of polystrene (PS) for the dairy industry have been sold since the K 2010 show.

For more details on Flexible extruders for thermoforming sheet lines on the advance click here

South Korean buyers conclude Feb purchases, naphtha price in Asia at a three-session low

Naphtha price in Asia was at a three-session low on Wednesday despite gains in Brent Crude. Naphtha cracks fell from a 3-1/2 month high to a three-session low as South Korean buyers slowly conclude Feebruary purchases, as per Reuters.

For more details on South Korean buyers conclude Feb purchases, naphtha price in Asia at a three-session low click here

Polymer demand improves in Thailand after floods

Players in Thailand have been reporting improved demand since the start of 2012 as the market recovers from last year’s devastating floods, as per ChemOrbis. Polymer prices are reported to be generallly higher compared to December and restocking is now being reported.

For more details on Polymer demand improves in Thailand after floods click here

Honam buys 75,000 tons, S-Oil offers 33,000 tons of light naphtha for Feb lifting

S-Oil has offered 33,000 tons of light naphtha from Onsan for Feb. 9-25 lifting in a tender which closes Wednesday as per Reuters. The offer coincides with strengthening demand due to increased buyingg interest from Taiwan's CPC and Formosa amid healthy demand from South Korea due to high cracker run rates.

For more details on Honam buys 75,000 tons, S-Oil offers 33,000 tons of light naphtha for Feb lifting click here

Aither Chemicals gets funding for plant to convert ethane from Marcellus Shale to ethylene

Aither Chemicals has received funding to construct and operate a plant to convert ethane from the Marcellus Shale to ethylene. Pittsburgh-based Renewable Manufacturing Gateway has agreed to finance thhe project proposed at an outlay of US$500 mln.

For more details on Aither Chemicals gets funding for plant to convert ethane from Marcellus Shale to ethylene click here

Acceptance for Jan PP hikes in Italy

After a round of decreases in the last few months of 2011, Italy’s PP market has turned around in January on the back of higher feedstock costs, as per ChemOrbis. European PP suppliers have returned wwith larger price hikes than the €20/ton seen in the January propylene contracts due to their need to recoup their margins.

For more details on Acceptance for Jan PP hikes in Italy click here

First ethylene export of 2012 from Europe bound for delivery from Tarragona to El Tablazo, Venezuela

Europe has fixed the first export of ethylene for the year, as per Platts. A 4,500 ton cargo of ethylene was loaded in early January for delivery from Tarragona in Spain to El Tablazo, Venezuela. FOB price levels are at Eur 900/mt (US$1149/mt) and higher.

For more details on First ethylene export of 2012 from Europe bound for delivery from Tarragona to El Tablazo, Venezuela click here

Naphtha cracks in Asia at their highest in almost 15 weeks

Asia's naphtha cracks hovered at their highest level in around 3-1/2 months as tight supplies amid healthy demand further boosted sentiment, as per Reuters. A latest private deal was concluded by Indiia's Reliance for an estimated 55,000 tons of naphtha for Feb.

For more details on Naphtha cracks in Asia at their highest in almost 15 weeks click here

Dow, Aksa, Oak Ridge National Lab developing lower-cost manufacturing process for carbon fiber

Dow has development partnerships with Turkey-based AKSA, a world-leading acrylics fiber maker; and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the US Department of Energy's largest science and energy laboraatory and its lead in low-cost carbon fiber research and development, as per ICIS.

For more details on Dow, Aksa, Oak Ridge National Lab developing lower-cost manufacturing process for carbon fiber click here

LyondellBasell to shut two PP lines in Wesseling by mid-2012

LyondellBasell will shut down two polypropylene (PP) lines in Wesseling, Germany, by mid-2012. The lines, with a combined capacity of 90,000 tpa, are among the company’s smallest and oldest PP producttion units.

For more details on LyondellBasell to shut two PP lines in Wesseling by mid-2012 click here

Samsung Total to invest US$1.72 bln in aromatics, EVA plants

Samsung Total Petrochemicals Co. plans to spend 2 trillion won (US$1.72 bln) to build a new aromatics complex and an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer plant in its Daesan complex in South Korea. Capaciities will include 1 mln tons of paraxylene and 420,000 tons of benzene, and 240,000 tpa of EVA.

For more details on Samsung Total to invest US$1.72 bln in aromatics, EVA plants click here

Maintenance season at naphtha crackers in Asia in first quarter

Asian producers are planning to implement annual turnarounds at naphtha crackers as well as styrene units from March through the second quarter of 2012, as per Chemorbis. These shutdowns are expected to restrict monomer supplies in the region, which may put upward pressure on feedstock costs in the coming term.

For more details on Maintenance season at naphtha crackers in Asia in first quarter click here

YNCC conclude February spot purchases of cargoes arriving at Yeosu

With 75,000 tons of naphtha bought through a tender, YNCC has wrapped up February spot purchases of cargoes arriving at Yeosu, as per traders in Reuters. The South Korean petrochemical major bought thhe three cargoes for H2 February arrival at premiums of around US$7.

For more details on YNCC conclude February spot purchases of cargoes arriving at Yeosu click here

Rising concerns over European economy pulls down oil prices

Concerns about the European economy on weaker factory orders in Germany and soft European retail sales in November have outweighed positive jobs data from USA, pulling down oil prices. Crude on the Nyymex fell to US$101.

For more details on Rising concerns over European economy pulls down oil prices click here

Enterprise Products to build 1230 mile line to ship ethane to petrochemical plants in US Gulf Coast

Enterprise Products Partners LP is to build the ATEX Express a 1,230 mile pipeline to ship ethane from Pennsylvania to US Gulf Coast petrochemical plants, as per Bloomberg. Enterprise Products is the largest US pipeline partnership by market value.

For more details on Enterprise Products to build 1230 mile line to ship ethane to petrochemical plants in US Gulf Coast click here

Samsung Total buys naphtha for H2 Feb delivery to Daesan at premiums of US$8

Samsung Total Petrochemicals Co. bought 25,000 tons of naphtha for delivery in the second half of February, to Daesan, South Korea, at a premium of about US$8 a ton above benchmark Japan .


For more details on Samsung Total buys naphtha for H2 Feb delivery to Daesan at premiums of US$8 click here

Weak naphtha cracker margins to gradually improve into 2012

Weak naphtha cracker margins are expected to gradually improve into 2012, following a drop in Q4-2011, as per Bernstein Research reported in ICIS. The analysts believe petrochemical producers will opeerate plants with discipline and voluntarily cut operating rates or shut down for maintenance to keep inventories low, in order to enable margin improvement.

For more details on Weak naphtha cracker margins to gradually improve into 2012 click here

China, ASEAN implement another round of duty reductions for 2012

As per the terms of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, China and the ASEAN-6 nations (Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam) implemented another round of ccustoms duty reductions at the start of 2012, as per ChemOrbis.

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RIL plans maintenance at several units at 580,000 bpd Jamnagar refining complex in February

Reliance Industries will shut several units at its newer 580,000 bpd Jamnagar refining complex for a three-week maintenance in February, as per Reuters. This will lead to a reduction in appetite for ccrude , gasoline output, and tightening supply of the motor fuel in Asia.

For more details on RIL plans maintenance at several units at 580,000 bpd Jamnagar refining complex in February click here

Saudi Arabia in talks with Turkey over claims of MEG dumping by SABIC

Saudi Arabia and Turkey are in talks over a claim that Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC) is dumping exports in the Turkish market. Turkey’s government has agreed to re-evaluate the case after the Euuropean Union and India dropped similar claims last month.

For more details on Saudi Arabia in talks with Turkey over claims of MEG dumping by SABIC click here

Global petrochemicals price slip nearly 1% in December

Prices in the US$3 trillion plus global petrochemicals marketplace slipped nearly 1% to US$1161/mt in December, as per the Platts Global Petrochemical Index (PGPI), a benchmark basket of seven widely used petrochemicals.

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Solutions for a highly efficient production of high performance BOPET film

For an efficient production of thin flexible BOPET packaging film, Brückner presents a wide range of lines, comprising various working widths and outputs. The unique multi-gap MD stretching with strettch ratios up to 1 : 4,65 ensures best and unique film properties, e.

For more details on Solutions for a highly efficient production of high performance BOPET film click here

ExxonMobil Chemical defers cracker turnaround at Baytown

ExxonMobil has rescheduled a steam cracker turnaround at Baytown, Texas, from this week to early February, as per Platts. Maintenance work at the 1.86 mln tpa olefins plant is now expected to start duuring the second week of February and extend into March.

For more details on ExxonMobil Chemical defers cracker turnaround at Baytown click here

JX Nippon plans maintenance shutdown at Kawasaki propylene plant

JX Nippon has planned a maintenance shutdown of its 140,000 tpa propylene plant located at Kawasaki OCU (Olefin Conversion Unit) from the beginning of August till mid-October.


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Shell Chemical to invest US$2 bln in gas cracker in either West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio

In a bid to tap shale gas deposits, Shell Chemical is finalizing plans to build a US$2 bln cracker complex in either West Virginia, Pennsylvania or Ohio, three states that overlay ancient shale beds rrich in natural gas.

For more details on Shell Chemical to invest US$2 bln in gas cracker in either West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio click here

One month maintenance turnaround at Tosoh's propylene plant planned in March

Tosoh has plans to take its Yokkaichi propylene plant off-stream for a month in March 2012, as per fibre2fashion. The date for the shutdown of the 270,000 tpa cracker has not been finalised.

For more details on One month maintenance turnaround at Tosoh's propylene plant planned in March click here

PET producers in China to increase exports in 2012 on increased domestic competition

Some large new PET capacity additions are scheduled to come on-line in China in 2012, adding over 1.5 mln tons of new PET capacity. This will heat up competition within the domestic market. As a resullt, PET producers plan to increase their export sales in 2012, as per ChemOrbis, amid concerns among some sellers that the market may become saturated if producers do not ramp up their export activities.

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Sinopec forays into American shale- pays US$2.2 bln for one-third stake in five emerging oil fields

China Petrochemical Corp (Sinopec) has forayed into American shale with payment of US$2.2 billion for a one-third stake in five emerging oil fields operated by Devon Energy Corp., as per Shanghai Dailly.

For more details on Sinopec forays into American shale- pays US$2.2 bln for one-third stake in five emerging oil fields click here

SCG-DOW finalize start-up of Thai PO facility with completion of full capacity performance

The Dow Chemical Company has announced that the SCG-Dow Group, a joint venture between Dow and The Siam Cement Group, has finalized the start-up of its propylene oxide (PO) facility in Thailand by succcessfully completing its full capacity performance test.

For more details on SCG-DOW finalize start-up of Thai PO facility with completion of full capacity performance click here

SCG-DOW finalize start-up of Thai PO facility with completion of full capacity performance

The Dow Chemical Company has announced that the SCG-Dow Group, a joint venture between Dow and The Siam Cement Group, has finalized the start-up of its propylene oxide (PO) facility in Thailand by succcessfully completing its full capacity performance test.

For more details on SCG-DOW finalize start-up of Thai PO facility with completion of full capacity performance click here

Dow selects Honeywell UOP C(3) Oleflex™ technology for US plant

UOP LLC, a Honeywell company, has been selected by The Dow Chemical Company to provide technology to produce propylene at a Dow production site in Texas. Dow Texas Operations will use Honeywell UOP C((3) Oleflex™ technology in a new propane dehydrogenation unit to convert shale gas-derived propane to propylene, a product used in the production of packaging, adhesives, coatings, cleaners and many other end-use applications.

For more details on Dow selects Honeywell UOP C(3) Oleflex™ technology for US plant click here

Sinopec opens all facilities at Beihai refinery including a 200,000 tpa polypropylene plant

On the first day of the year, Sinopec Group has opened all facilities at its new 100,000 bpd refinery in the southern coastal city of Beihai, including crude pre-treating, catalytic cracking, delayed coking, continuous reforming, diesel and gasoline hydrotreating and other functions, as per Reuters.

For more details on Sinopec opens all facilities at Beihai refinery including a 200,000 tpa polypropylene plant click here

PVC draws a stable to firmer outlook in Asia

January PVC deals have been mostly concluded at higher levels throughout Asia amid strong VCM values as well as reduced availability, as per ChemOrbis. Players in China reported increases of US$20-70//ton on PVC done deals for cargoes to be shipped this month.

For more details on PVC draws a stable to firmer outlook in Asia click here

Planned maintenance work at Dow Alberta’s fractionation unit

Dow Chemical Canada plans to carry out planned maintenance work at a fractionation unit at its joint venture polyethylene unit at Fort Saskatchewan in central Alberta from January 4-6, as per Platts. The 650,000 tpa LLDPE/HDPE swing plant is operated by MEGlobal, a 50:50 joint venture between Dow and Kuwait's Petrochemical Industries Company.

For more details on Planned maintenance work at Dow Alberta’s fractionation unit click here

Formosa Plastics Group units report Q4 losses on a slowing global economy cut demand

Units of Formosa Plastics Group - Formosa Petrochemical Corp. and Nan Ya Plastics Corp., have reported fourth-quarter losses, as a slowing global economy cut demand. Missing estimates,
Formosa Petroochemical posted a pretax loss of NT$4.

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Asia-Pacific demand for HDPE to drive global market

Today the developed economies of Europe and the USA have reached a standpoint on the polyethylene high density (HDPE) markets - the indexes are resting at the saturation level according To Merchant Reesearch & Consulting Ltd.

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Naphtha prices in Asia edge up to approach three-month highs

Supported by Brent crude, naphtha prices in Asia edged up nearly 2% to approach a three-month high on Wednesday. Physical intermonth timespreads remained stable with buyers coming forward seeking Febrruary cargoes, as per Reuters.

For more details on Naphtha prices in Asia edge up to approach three-month highs click here

Saudi PP exports to India to get impetus on lifting of anti dumping duty on Saudi Polypropylene

Major Saudi Arabian Polypropylene makers target increase in PP exports to India following the lifting of the anti-dumping duty. The duty imposed by India covered imports from companies including SABICC, the world’s biggest petrochemicals maker, Advanced Petrochemicals and National Industrialization Co.

For more details on Saudi PP exports to India to get impetus on lifting of anti dumping duty on Saudi Polypropylene click here

Iran expects petrochemicals exports to EU to reduce due to Eurozone debt crisis

Iran expects 2012 petrochemicals exports to the EU to fall mainly due to the eurozone debt crisis rather than international sanctions against its energy sector, as per Mehr news agency in Platts. “Duee to the economic recession and the crisis in Europe, high petrochemical exports cannot be expected, as per Abdolhossein Bayat, deputy oil minister for petrochemical affairs.

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Mitsui and Sinopec ink agreement to set up ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer joint venture

Mitsui Chemicals Inc. and China Petroleum & Chemical Corp. (Sinopec) have signed an agreement to establish a joint venture (JV) company for the production and distribution of ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer (EPT), as per Japan Corporate News NetWork.

For more details on Mitsui and Sinopec ink agreement to set up ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer joint venture click here

Oil and petrochems ports reopen in Mexico as weather improves

All Mexican oil and petrochemicals ports reopened to shipping early Wednesday after a 48-hour closure by bad weather, as per the Ministry of Communications and Transportation in Platts. High winds andd heavy seas forced the closing of Gulf Coast ports- petrochemicals port of Altamira and crude-loading ports of Dos Bocas, Cayo Arcas and Pajaritos.

For more details on Oil and petrochems ports reopen in Mexico as weather improves click here

2012 starts on a firm note in Italy’s polymer markets

Players in the Italian market are gradually returning from the long Christmas holidays, as per ChemOrbis. The country’s polymer markets continue to feel lethargy of the year-end holidays as many playeers are away on extended holidays, while some buyers, who had pre-bought for the first half of January, are not in a hurry to purchase.

For more details on 2012 starts on a firm note in Italy’s polymer markets click here

Commercial production of propylene and polypropylene to commence at Saudi Polymers in Q1

Saudi Polymers Co. (SPCo) has completed construction of its petrochemical manufacturing facility located in Al-Jubail, Saudi Arabia., as per hydrocarbonprocessing.com. Final commissioning and testing activities continue with a priority on ensuring safe and reliable operations, the companies said.

For more details on Commercial production of propylene and polypropylene to commence at Saudi Polymers in Q1 click here

Flame retardant tapes for aerospace industry

Polyonics has recently introduced a family of flame retardant engineered tapes that have been tested for compliance to the UL94 VTM0, FAR 25.853 flame retardant and BSS 7238/7239 smoke and toxicity sttandards.

For more details on Flame retardant tapes for aerospace industry click here

Acquisition of Merquinsa's TPU activities by specialty chemicals maker Lubrizol complete

The acquisition of Merquinsa's TPU activities by specialty chemicals manufacturer Lubrizol has been completed, as agreed in November 2011. Located in Barcelona, Spain, Merquinsa serves the most techniically demanding segments of the specialty polymer market used in automotive, sports and leisure, furniture and textile coatings.

For more details on Acquisition of Merquinsa's TPU activities by specialty chemicals maker Lubrizol complete click here

Enterprise to Build Marcellus/Utica Shale Ethane Pipeline

Enterprise Products Partners L.P. has received sufficient transportation commitments to support development of its 1,230 mile Appalachia to Texas pipeline (ATEX Express) that will deliver growing ethaane production from the Marcellus/Utica Shale areas of Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio to the U.

For more details on Enterprise to Build Marcellus/Utica Shale Ethane Pipeline click here

Sibur to build giant petrochemical complex

Russia-based Sibur is considering building a new giant petrochemical complex in Tobolsk (in Tyumen, western Siberia), which is expected to be the largest in Russia and one of the largest in the world,, according to Dmitry Konov, CEO of the company, as reported in Europeanp Plastics News.

For more details on Sibur to build giant petrochemical complex click here

West Bengal Govt to question HPL management on defaulter notice from RoC

West Bengal government is likely to question Haldia Petrochemicals (HPL) management on non finalization of accounts following defaulter notice, issued by Registrar of Companies (RoC). RoC had issued sshow-cause notice to the petrochem firm for non filing of balance sheet and not holding annual general meeting AGM.

For more details on West Bengal Govt to question HPL management on defaulter notice from RoC click here

United strengths of plastic extrusion machinery: battenfeld-cincinnati, Austria & Kabra ExtrusionTechnik, India

Since 1983, Kabra Extrusiontechnik (KET), a leader in the Indian extrusion machinery market has been in technological collaboration with Battenfeld Extrusiontechnik, Germany. In 2006, this partnershipp was further strengthened with acquisition of 14% equity stake by Battenfeld in KET.

For more details on United strengths of plastic extrusion machinery: battenfeld-cincinnati, Austria & Kabra ExtrusionTechnik, India click here

Gulf Petrochem Group inks agreement with Government subsidiary Fujairah Petroleum Company

Gulf Petrochem Group, has signed an investment agreement with the Government of Fujairah’s subsidiary Fujairah Petroleum Company (FPC). Under the agreement, FPC will buy a 12% stake in Gulf Petrochem''s 412,000 cubic meter storage terminal project in Fujairah.

For more details on Gulf Petrochem Group inks agreement with Government subsidiary Fujairah Petroleum Company click here

TCG approaches Supreme Court with plea to correct and clarify references in HPL judgment

The Chatterjee Group has approached the Supreme Court with a plea to “correct” and clarify a few references in the Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd (HPL) judgment delivered three months ago, as per Telegraphh India.

For more details on TCG approaches Supreme Court with plea to correct and clarify references in HPL judgment click here

2012 outlook for petrochemicals in Taiwan to be dim

The outlook for Taiwan's petrochemical and basic metal sectors next year will be dimmer than for other sectors, a Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) official is reported in CNA. Most manufacturers exxpect to hit bottom in Q1-2012, but the petrochemical and basic metal sectors could continue to struggle into the second half of the year, as per a survey.

For more details on 2012 outlook for petrochemicals in Taiwan to be dim click here

Steady polyethylene, polypropylene demand in Africa expected in 2012

No major fall in overall polyolefin demand in Africa is expected in 2012, despite Africa's vulnerability to the ripple effect from the eurozone debt crisis. This could be attributed growth in domesticc consumption that will offset Africa's exposure to domestic and international crises and help to sustain current levels of polyolefin demand, as per ICIS.

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Nylon 6.6 feedstock adipic acid from renewable sources

An environmental friendly substitute has been developed for nylon 6.6 feedstock adipic acid. A company called Verdezyne, which just opened a pilot plant in Carlsbad, California, has developed a fermenntation process to make adipic acid from renewable sources like non-food based vegetable oils.

For more details on Nylon 6.6 feedstock adipic acid from renewable sources click here

Oil prices end the year below US$100 in Asia amid signs of improvement in US economy

Oil prices ended the year 2011 a tad below US$100 a barrel in Asia amid signs of gradual improvement in the U.S. economy. Benchmark crude for February delivery inched up to US$99.7 on the Nymex. Pricees have jumped by over 20 dollars from levels of US$75-78 in October to the current level in November as the market looks to growing evidence the U.

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Asian demand outlook sluggish in Asian polymer markets

As players in Asian polymer markets wind down their business for 2011, attention is shifting towards the market outlook for early 2012, as per Chemorbis. With demand ending the year on a disappointingg note and the upcoming Chinese New Year holidays expected to result in a short trading month in January, sellers generally acknowledge that demand is not likely to see much improvement in January, though few remain hopeful that demand will start to pick up in February after the Chinese New Year holidays.

For more details on Asian demand outlook sluggish in Asian polymer markets click here

Multi-sensor sorting system separates contaminants from PET material flows, sorts them into unmixed fractions

The big challenge in PET recycling is that bottles or flakes must be separated to provide unmixed and contaminant-free output materials. S+S has developed solutions that separate contaminants from PETT material flows and sort these material flows into unmixed fractions.

For more details on Multi-sensor sorting system separates contaminants from PET material flows, sorts them into unmixed fractions click here

Dow expected to claim US$2.5 bln in compensation for scrapped K-Dow Petrochemicals joint venture in Kuwait

Dow is expected to claim US$2.5 bln in compensation for a scrapped joint venture in Kuwait. However, the compensation is subject to the verdict of the court, which is currently reviewing whether the GGulf state has breached the contract or not.

For more details on Dow expected to claim US$2.5 bln in compensation for scrapped K-Dow Petrochemicals joint venture in Kuwait click here

Formosa to commence maintenance for safety checks at refining units in H1-12

Formosa Petrochemical Corp plans to embark on maintenance at its 540,000 bpd refinery in H1-2012 to complete safety checks ahead of a government deadline, as per Reuters.
The Taiwanese government haas ordered the refiner to carry out comprehensive checks at its refinery in Mailiao and Yunlin, as safety concerns grew after a series of fires hit the complex.

For more details on Formosa to commence maintenance for safety checks at refining units in H1-12 click here

PetroChina, Sinopec ink agreement with Zhejiang government for 6 petrochem projects

PetroChina Co Ltd and China Petroleum & Chemical Corp (Sinopec) have signed an agreement with the Zhejiang government on six petrochemical projects worth 139.1 bln yuan (US$22 bln), as per China Securrities Journal .

For more details on PetroChina, Sinopec ink agreement with Zhejiang government for 6 petrochem projects click here

KraussMaffei plans to double production plants in Slovakia and China

The KraussMaffei Group has decided to double its production plants in Martin (Slovakia) and in Haiyan (China). For both sites, the start of production is planned for the beginning of 2013. "The KrausssMaffei Group is growing.

For more details on KraussMaffei plans to double production plants in Slovakia and China click here

Lukoil's Stavrolen mulls April restart for ethylene unit

Russia’s Lukoil expects the damaged ethylene unit at its Stavrolen petrochemical plant in the south of the country to restart by April 1. The plant has been shut since mid-December by a fire that caussed damages to the tune of US$25 mln.

For more details on Lukoil's Stavrolen mulls April restart for ethylene unit click here

Capacity expansion of Kochi Refinery from 9.5 mln tpa to 15.5 mln tpa

Capacity of Kochi Refinery (a unit of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.) is being expanded from the current 9.5 mln tpa to 15.5 mln tpa. BPCL plans to establish a joint venture petrochemicals complex at the site.

For more details on Capacity expansion of Kochi Refinery from 9.5 mln tpa to 15.5 mln tpa click here