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Akzo Nobel

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , June 5, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon has completed a €20 million project at Sundsvall, Sweden that significantly raises production capacity for its Expancel expandable microspheres. These are used to enhance the properties of products ranging from shoe soles and food packaging to wind turbines.

“Expancel demand is growing fast as we develop new applications to fulfil customer needs,” said Sylvia Winkel Pettersson, Director Expancel at Nouryon. “Examples include underbody coatings, weather strips and repair putty for the automotive market, and sealants, floorings and elastomeric cool roof coatings for the construction market.”

Expancel microspheres are used as a lightweight filler and a blowing agent to make end products lighter, create attractive textures, protect against damage or shield against the elements. At the same time it also reduces costs as less raw material is needed.

Nouryon is the leading producer of expandable microspheres. The company recently announced that it would invest in a new world-scale Expancel plant in the US, subject to final board approval.

“These projects reflect our commitment to meet growing demand and grow successfully alongside our customers around the world,” added Niek Stapel, Managing Director Pulp and Performance Chemicals at Nouryon. “Expanding our capacity will significantly strengthen our leadership position in expandable microspheres.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon completes Euro 20 million project to increase Expancel expandable microspheres production capacity in Sundsvall, Sweden

Posted in: Mills 06/05/2019 - 06:07

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , June 5, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon has completed a €20 million project at Sundsvall, Sweden that significantly raises production capacity for its Expancel expandable microspheres. These are used to enhance the properties of products ranging from shoe soles and food packaging to wind turbines.

“Expancel demand is growing fast as we develop new applications to fulfil customer needs,” said Sylvia Winkel Pettersson, Director Expancel at Nouryon. “Examples include underbody coatings, weather strips and repair putty for the automotive market, and sealants, floorings and elastomeric cool roof coatings for the construction market.”

Expancel microspheres are used as a lightweight filler and a blowing agent to make end products lighter, create attractive textures, protect against damage or shield against the elements. At the same time it also reduces costs as less raw material is needed.

Nouryon is the leading producer of expandable microspheres. The company recently announced that it would invest in a new world-scale Expancel plant in the US, subject to final board approval.

“These projects reflect our commitment to meet growing demand and grow successfully alongside our customers around the world,” added Niek Stapel, Managing Director Pulp and Performance Chemicals at Nouryon. “Expanding our capacity will significantly strengthen our leadership position in expandable microspheres.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Read more

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , June 3, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon has announced a new organizational model as part of its strategy to accelerate growth and drive performance improvement. The new model, which will take effect January 1, 2020, is organized around three market-focused Businesses supported by a centralized Operations and Functional structure.

The three Businesses and their leaders are as follows:

  • Technology Solutions: Johan Landfors has been named President; he was formerly Managing Director Polymer Chemistry
  • Industrial Chemicals: Knut Schwalenberg continues as President
  • Performance Formulations: the President for this business will be named at a later date

Leading the Operations organization:

  • Lanny Duvall continues as Chief Integrated Supply Chain Officer

Having centralized Operations will drive efficiency and performance improvement based on strong regional hubs to support the company’s manufacturing base, while the Businesses can focus on customers and unique value propositions.

“This optimized model will allow our Businesses and support organizations to concentrate on what they do best,” said Charlie Shaver, Nouryon CEO. “Each Business will have a clear mission, driving management focus.”

  • Performance Formulations includes business lines based on tailored performance that require a high level of customer intimacy, such as those for personal care and agriculture
  • Technology Solutions focuses on leading products that are an integrated part of customer processes, such as catalysts and additives for the polymer and pulp industries
  • Industrial Chemicals builds on the company’s strong salt-chlorine value chain

“This model will make us more market-focused and better equipped to meet customers’ needs,” Shaver added. “I look forward to working with the leadership team to deliver on our growth strategy.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon announces new organizational model as part of its strategy to boost performance and growth, effective Jan 1, 2020

Posted in: Chemicals 06/03/2019 - 08:13

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , June 3, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon has announced a new organizational model as part of its strategy to accelerate growth and drive performance improvement. The new model, which will take effect January 1, 2020, is organized around three market-focused Businesses supported by a centralized Operations and Functional structure.

The three Businesses and their leaders are as follows:

  • Technology Solutions: Johan Landfors has been named President; he was formerly Managing Director Polymer Chemistry
  • Industrial Chemicals: Knut Schwalenberg continues as President
  • Performance Formulations: the President for this business will be named at a later date

Leading the Operations organization:

  • Lanny Duvall continues as Chief Integrated Supply Chain Officer

Having centralized Operations will drive efficiency and performance improvement based on strong regional hubs to support the company’s manufacturing base, while the Businesses can focus on customers and unique value propositions.

“This optimized model will allow our Businesses and support organizations to concentrate on what they do best,” said Charlie Shaver, Nouryon CEO. “Each Business will have a clear mission, driving management focus.”

  • Performance Formulations includes business lines based on tailored performance that require a high level of customer intimacy, such as those for personal care and agriculture
  • Technology Solutions focuses on leading products that are an integrated part of customer processes, such as catalysts and additives for the polymer and pulp industries
  • Industrial Chemicals builds on the company’s strong salt-chlorine value chain

“This model will make us more market-focused and better equipped to meet customers’ needs,” Shaver added. “I look forward to working with the leadership team to deliver on our growth strategy.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Read more

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , May 24, 2019 (Press Release) -Surfactants derived from plants, eco-friendly membranes, and miniature sensors were among the eight winning ideas in the 2019 Imagine Chemistry collaborative innovation challenge, organized by Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals). More than 160 submissions from 30 countries were received, and the winners were chosen from 14 finalists at a three-day event at the company’s RD&I center in Deventer, the Netherlands. 

Two overall winners were awarded joint development agreements (JDA): Sironix Renewables (USA) received a JDA from Nouryon and Imagine Chemistry partner Unilever for its technology to make surfactants from plants; and Ionomr (Canada) received a JDA from Nouryon for its eco-friendly membrane technology.

Six other groups will receive the following awards:

  • Ingu Solutions (Canada) – supply agreement with Nouryon for its miniaturized pipeline sensors
  • RISE (Sweden) – research agreement with Nouryon for its technology to modify the surface of nanoparticles
  • Intelligent Fluids (Germany) – research agreement with Nouryon plus partner support by ICOS Capital for its physics-based cleaning fluids
  • Cambridge Carbon Capture (United Kingdom) – partner support by Lux Research for its technology to capture and convert CO2 into a saleable mineral
  • Arenal Process Control Solutions (the Netherlands) – chemical research support for its ultrasonic and thermal sensors for monitoring production processes
  • The University of Sheffield and Entomics (United Kingdom) – chemical research support by Nouryon for its insect-derived surfactants.

“Collaborative innovation is essential to create value and develop the solutions our customers need,” said Renier Vree, Nouryon’s CFO and Chairman of the Imagine Chemistry jury. “The conversations between finalists and experts from inside and outside the company were very open-minded and collaboration-focused. Developing value cases for joint development of products, research as well as supply will help us to better achieve our growth ambitions.”

 Christoph Krumm, CEO and co-founder of Sironix Renewables, said: “The plant-based molecule we developed serves as both a surfactant and chelating agent, eliminating the need for co-formulated chemicals in detergents. Imagine Chemistry was an invaluable opportunity for us to learn from Nouryon and Unilever experts and business leaders, and to come up with a plan to further develop our technology.”

Bill Haberlin, CEO of Ionomr, said: “We aim to replace toxic chemicals in electrochemical applications and have the most stable alternative to enable significant cost reductions. This award really validates the work we are doing, and will accelerate the adoption and scale-up of our technology.”

Since 2017, Imagine Chemistry has generated more than 500 innovative ideas, and Nouryon will focus on a Go-to-Market program to make sure that as many as possible reach commercialization, said Marco Waas, Director RD&I Industrial Chemistry. “Examples include projects focused on circular chemistry and Industry 4.0 that can substantially enhance our sustainability profile and deliver more value to our customers.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon announces 2019 Imagine Chemistry winners in Deventer, the Netherlands

Posted in: Chemicals 05/24/2019 - 10:21

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , May 24, 2019 (Press Release) -Surfactants derived from plants, eco-friendly membranes, and miniature sensors were among the eight winning ideas in the 2019 Imagine Chemistry collaborative innovation challenge, organized by Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals). More than 160 submissions from 30 countries were received, and the winners were chosen from 14 finalists at a three-day event at the company’s RD&I center in Deventer, the Netherlands. 

Two overall winners were awarded joint development agreements (JDA): Sironix Renewables (USA) received a JDA from Nouryon and Imagine Chemistry partner Unilever for its technology to make surfactants from plants; and Ionomr (Canada) received a JDA from Nouryon for its eco-friendly membrane technology.

Six other groups will receive the following awards:

  • Ingu Solutions (Canada) – supply agreement with Nouryon for its miniaturized pipeline sensors
  • RISE (Sweden) – research agreement with Nouryon for its technology to modify the surface of nanoparticles
  • Intelligent Fluids (Germany) – research agreement with Nouryon plus partner support by ICOS Capital for its physics-based cleaning fluids
  • Cambridge Carbon Capture (United Kingdom) – partner support by Lux Research for its technology to capture and convert CO2 into a saleable mineral
  • Arenal Process Control Solutions (the Netherlands) – chemical research support for its ultrasonic and thermal sensors for monitoring production processes
  • The University of Sheffield and Entomics (United Kingdom) – chemical research support by Nouryon for its insect-derived surfactants.

“Collaborative innovation is essential to create value and develop the solutions our customers need,” said Renier Vree, Nouryon’s CFO and Chairman of the Imagine Chemistry jury. “The conversations between finalists and experts from inside and outside the company were very open-minded and collaboration-focused. Developing value cases for joint development of products, research as well as supply will help us to better achieve our growth ambitions.”

 Christoph Krumm, CEO and co-founder of Sironix Renewables, said: “The plant-based molecule we developed serves as both a surfactant and chelating agent, eliminating the need for co-formulated chemicals in detergents. Imagine Chemistry was an invaluable opportunity for us to learn from Nouryon and Unilever experts and business leaders, and to come up with a plan to further develop our technology.”

Bill Haberlin, CEO of Ionomr, said: “We aim to replace toxic chemicals in electrochemical applications and have the most stable alternative to enable significant cost reductions. This award really validates the work we are doing, and will accelerate the adoption and scale-up of our technology.”

Since 2017, Imagine Chemistry has generated more than 500 innovative ideas, and Nouryon will focus on a Go-to-Market program to make sure that as many as possible reach commercialization, said Marco Waas, Director RD&I Industrial Chemistry. “Examples include projects focused on circular chemistry and Industry 4.0 that can substantially enhance our sustainability profile and deliver more value to our customers.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Read more

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , May 15, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon has been awarded the 2019 Responsible Care Merit Award by the Association of International Chemical Manufacturers (AICM) in China. The award recognizes the company’s performance and contribution to the development of a responsible chemical industry in the country.

“We take pride in our efforts to improve our economic, environmental, and social impact and it’s an honor to be recognized by AICM for our efforts in this area,” said Jack Li, Sales Director Asia at Nouryon. “We look forward to further collaborate with AICM and support its mission and to help local partners pursue excellence and enhance customer satisfaction.”

Nouryon CEO Charlie Shaver added: “Our footprint in China is one of the most modern that we have in any part of the world and it enables us to service customers in a wide range of markets around the globe. Our investments in the country clearly demonstrate our commitment to strengthen our capabilities in the country.”

Nouryon started production in China in the early 1990s and currently employs nearly 1,400 people across nine locations. The company recently completed an expansion of its surfactants capacity at Boxing and is investing in capacity to serve the polymers market, including a €90 million organic peroxides production facility in Tianjin and a major expansion of dicumyl peroxide production capacity at Ningbo.

AICM represents nearly 70 major chemical multinationals operating in China and aims to contribute to the sustainable development of the country’s chemical industry, amongst others by promoting green manufacturing and advancing Responsible Care among its stakeholders. Responsible Care is a global initiative by the chemical industry to enhance and improve companies’ environmental, health, safety and security performance.

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon receives 2019 Responsible Care Merit Award by AICM in China

Posted in: Chemicals 05/15/2019 - 04:40

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , May 15, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon has been awarded the 2019 Responsible Care Merit Award by the Association of International Chemical Manufacturers (AICM) in China. The award recognizes the company’s performance and contribution to the development of a responsible chemical industry in the country.

“We take pride in our efforts to improve our economic, environmental, and social impact and it’s an honor to be recognized by AICM for our efforts in this area,” said Jack Li, Sales Director Asia at Nouryon. “We look forward to further collaborate with AICM and support its mission and to help local partners pursue excellence and enhance customer satisfaction.”

Nouryon CEO Charlie Shaver added: “Our footprint in China is one of the most modern that we have in any part of the world and it enables us to service customers in a wide range of markets around the globe. Our investments in the country clearly demonstrate our commitment to strengthen our capabilities in the country.”

Nouryon started production in China in the early 1990s and currently employs nearly 1,400 people across nine locations. The company recently completed an expansion of its surfactants capacity at Boxing and is investing in capacity to serve the polymers market, including a €90 million organic peroxides production facility in Tianjin and a major expansion of dicumyl peroxide production capacity at Ningbo.

AICM represents nearly 70 major chemical multinationals operating in China and aims to contribute to the sustainable development of the country’s chemical industry, amongst others by promoting green manufacturing and advancing Responsible Care among its stakeholders. Responsible Care is a global initiative by the chemical industry to enhance and improve companies’ environmental, health, safety and security performance.

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Read more

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , April 8, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) has started production of a new version of its dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO), Perkadox GB-50, at Los Reyes, Mexico. It is the first dry BPO on the market that does not use the desensitizing agent dicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP), which the European Union recently reclassified as a category 1B Reproductive Toxin.

Perkadox GB-50 is used as a curing agent for road markings, flooring, elastomeric roof coatings, adhesives, chemical anchors and other acrylic composites.

“With GB-50 we developed a solution that addresses concerns associated with DCHP and meets our customers’ needs,” said Johan Landfors, Managing Director Polymer Chemistry at Nouryon. “We introduced the new formulation in 2018 and experienced significant global interest. Completing the Los Reyes expansion project ensures that we can meet growth in future market demand.”

The expansion and upgrade project at Los Reyes, including construction of a facility to make the new peroxide, involved investment of more than €12 million.

Ricardo Castanedo, Los Reyes Site Manager and Country Director Mexico at Nouryon: “Los Reyes has benefitted greatly from Nouryon’s commitment to the site. Over the past year, we have hired more than 100 additional staff to support our expansion and to ensure that we can continue to provide industry-leading support to our growing list of customers.”

This is the latest in a series of investments by Nouryon to better serve and grow with its customers in the polymer market. The company is continuing to strengthen its production network to enable continued security of supply to its customers in the North American polymer market. Additional capacity is also scheduled to come online in Brazil, China, and India.

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon starts production of Perkadox GB-50 dibenzoyl peroxide at its facility in Los Reyes, Mexico

Posted in: Chemicals 04/08/2019 - 05:27

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , April 8, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) has started production of a new version of its dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO), Perkadox GB-50, at Los Reyes, Mexico. It is the first dry BPO on the market that does not use the desensitizing agent dicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP), which the European Union recently reclassified as a category 1B Reproductive Toxin.

Perkadox GB-50 is used as a curing agent for road markings, flooring, elastomeric roof coatings, adhesives, chemical anchors and other acrylic composites.

“With GB-50 we developed a solution that addresses concerns associated with DCHP and meets our customers’ needs,” said Johan Landfors, Managing Director Polymer Chemistry at Nouryon. “We introduced the new formulation in 2018 and experienced significant global interest. Completing the Los Reyes expansion project ensures that we can meet growth in future market demand.”

The expansion and upgrade project at Los Reyes, including construction of a facility to make the new peroxide, involved investment of more than €12 million.

Ricardo Castanedo, Los Reyes Site Manager and Country Director Mexico at Nouryon: “Los Reyes has benefitted greatly from Nouryon’s commitment to the site. Over the past year, we have hired more than 100 additional staff to support our expansion and to ensure that we can continue to provide industry-leading support to our growing list of customers.”

This is the latest in a series of investments by Nouryon to better serve and grow with its customers in the polymer market. The company is continuing to strengthen its production network to enable continued security of supply to its customers in the North American polymer market. Additional capacity is also scheduled to come online in Brazil, China, and India.

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Read more

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , March 26, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) will double production capacity for solvent-based organic peroxides at its Los Reyes, Mexico site, enabling it to support the strong growth of the North American polyolefin and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) markets. The expansion is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2020.

Polyolefins are used to produce a variety of end products including films, food packaging, and cables. PVC is widely used in the building and construction market in applications such as pipes, ducting, door profiles and window frames.

“Fueled by large investments in the petrochemical and polymer industry, the organic peroxides market is expanding rapidly in North America,” said Johan Landfors, Managing Director Polymer Chemistry at Nouryon. “We are scaling up quickly and building a regional production network that is flexible and resilient, enabling continuous security of supply to our North American customers.”

Landfors continued: “We are committed to adapting to dynamic market conditions and invest in production capabilities in North America to support the growth of our customers. The increased capacity will boost our position in the region and reinforces our leadership position in the global organic peroxides market."

The Los Reyes expansion is the latest in a series of investments by Nouryon to better serve and grow with its customers in the polymer market. The company recently expanded production capacity for emulsion-based organic peroxides at Los Reyes and started production of Butanox-branded MEK peroxides at Pasadena, Texas. Another expansion project at Los Reyes is due to be completed this year. Several projects have also been announced or completed in Asia.

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon to double production capacity for solvent-based organic peroxides at its Los Reyes site in Mexico

Posted in: Chemicals 03/26/2019 - 08:07

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , March 26, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) will double production capacity for solvent-based organic peroxides at its Los Reyes, Mexico site, enabling it to support the strong growth of the North American polyolefin and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) markets. The expansion is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2020.

Polyolefins are used to produce a variety of end products including films, food packaging, and cables. PVC is widely used in the building and construction market in applications such as pipes, ducting, door profiles and window frames.

“Fueled by large investments in the petrochemical and polymer industry, the organic peroxides market is expanding rapidly in North America,” said Johan Landfors, Managing Director Polymer Chemistry at Nouryon. “We are scaling up quickly and building a regional production network that is flexible and resilient, enabling continuous security of supply to our North American customers.”

Landfors continued: “We are committed to adapting to dynamic market conditions and invest in production capabilities in North America to support the growth of our customers. The increased capacity will boost our position in the region and reinforces our leadership position in the global organic peroxides market."

The Los Reyes expansion is the latest in a series of investments by Nouryon to better serve and grow with its customers in the polymer market. The company recently expanded production capacity for emulsion-based organic peroxides at Los Reyes and started production of Butanox-branded MEK peroxides at Pasadena, Texas. Another expansion project at Los Reyes is due to be completed this year. Several projects have also been announced or completed in Asia.

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Read more

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , March 15, 2019 (Press Release) -Today Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Boxing site, one of the company’s first chemical production locations in China. The site has grown to become an integral part of the company’s surfactants production network via a series of investments, including a €4.8 million expansion that was completed at the end of 2017.

The site, which now employs around 230 people, produces many high-value products and serves customers in various markets such as personal care, asphalt, construction, and cleaning.

“Boxing plays a critical role in maintaining our market-leading position, and I want to thank our employees, customers and partners, and the Shandong provincial authorities and local Binzhou City and Boxing County governments for their continued confidence and support,” said AB Ghosh, Managing Director Surface Chemistry.

“A lot of our success in China is due to our efforts to support a more sustainable chemical industry and introduce more environmentally friendly surfactants. We continue to see great opportunity in the region, and we’ll continue to put the necessary resources behind our operations to support our customers’ needs and grow with them.”

Nouryon started production in China in the early 1990s and currently employs nearly 1400 people across nine locations in the country. Besides expanding its surfactants capacity, the company is also investing in capacity to serve the polymers market, including a €90 million organic peroxides production facility in Tianjin and a major expansion of dicumyl peroxide production capacity at Ningbo.

Nouryon CEO Charlie Shaver added: “We’ve been investing heavily in our Chinese sites and we expect this to continue as we want to strengthen our capabilities to help us meet our ambitious global growth targets.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon celebrates 25th anniversary of its Boxing site in China

Posted in: Chemicals 03/15/2019 - 06:42

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , March 15, 2019 (Press Release) -Today Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Boxing site, one of the company’s first chemical production locations in China. The site has grown to become an integral part of the company’s surfactants production network via a series of investments, including a €4.8 million expansion that was completed at the end of 2017.

The site, which now employs around 230 people, produces many high-value products and serves customers in various markets such as personal care, asphalt, construction, and cleaning.

“Boxing plays a critical role in maintaining our market-leading position, and I want to thank our employees, customers and partners, and the Shandong provincial authorities and local Binzhou City and Boxing County governments for their continued confidence and support,” said AB Ghosh, Managing Director Surface Chemistry.

“A lot of our success in China is due to our efforts to support a more sustainable chemical industry and introduce more environmentally friendly surfactants. We continue to see great opportunity in the region, and we’ll continue to put the necessary resources behind our operations to support our customers’ needs and grow with them.”

Nouryon started production in China in the early 1990s and currently employs nearly 1400 people across nine locations in the country. Besides expanding its surfactants capacity, the company is also investing in capacity to serve the polymers market, including a €90 million organic peroxides production facility in Tianjin and a major expansion of dicumyl peroxide production capacity at Ningbo.

Nouryon CEO Charlie Shaver added: “We’ve been investing heavily in our Chinese sites and we expect this to continue as we want to strengthen our capabilities to help us meet our ambitious global growth targets.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Read more

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , March 7, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) has selected a location in the US for a world-scale polymerization plant for its Expancel expandable microspheres. The project will significantly strengthen the company’s leadership position in expandable microspheres, which are used to make customers’ end products lighter and reduce costs.

Advanced engineering is under way and long delivery item procurement has started. The project is scheduled for completion in late 2020, subject to final board approval.

“This investment is an important step to meet the fast-growing demand for this product,” said Sylvia Winkel Pettersson, Director Expancel at Nouryon. “The planned facility will enable us to better serve our customers in the US and globally.”

Expancel microspheres are used as a lightweight filler and a blowing agent to make end products lighter, obtain different surface effects, and reduce costs by requiring less raw material. “It is a versatile product used in a multitude of applications and markets,” Winkel Pettersson said. “It offers benefits such as lower density and better insulation – some of the key applications include automotive and construction.”

Nouryon is the leading producer of expandable microspheres worldwide. The planned US investment follows a recently completed capacity increase at Sundsvall, Sweden, scheduled to be fully on-line in the second quarter.

“These projects reflect Nouryon’s commitment to be a trusted partner for our customers, who rely on us to support the growth of their business,” said Niek Stapel, Managing Director Pulp and Performance Chemicals. “We will take our growth ambitions to the next level by making strategic investments with attractive returns tailored to the needs of our customers.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

Nouryon to invest in polymerization plant for its Expancel expandable microspheres in US

Posted in: Chemicals 03/07/2019 - 04:17

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands , March 7, 2019 (Press Release) -Nouryon (formerly AkzoNobel Specialty Chemicals) has selected a location in the US for a world-scale polymerization plant for its Expancel expandable microspheres. The project will significantly strengthen the company’s leadership position in expandable microspheres, which are used to make customers’ end products lighter and reduce costs.

Advanced engineering is under way and long delivery item procurement has started. The project is scheduled for completion in late 2020, subject to final board approval.

“This investment is an important step to meet the fast-growing demand for this product,” said Sylvia Winkel Pettersson, Director Expancel at Nouryon. “The planned facility will enable us to better serve our customers in the US and globally.”

Expancel microspheres are used as a lightweight filler and a blowing agent to make end products lighter, obtain different surface effects, and reduce costs by requiring less raw material. “It is a versatile product used in a multitude of applications and markets,” Winkel Pettersson said. “It offers benefits such as lower density and better insulation – some of the key applications include automotive and construction.”

Nouryon is the leading producer of expandable microspheres worldwide. The planned US investment follows a recently completed capacity increase at Sundsvall, Sweden, scheduled to be fully on-line in the second quarter.

“These projects reflect Nouryon’s commitment to be a trusted partner for our customers, who rely on us to support the growth of their business,” said Niek Stapel, Managing Director Pulp and Performance Chemicals. “We will take our growth ambitions to the next level by making strategic investments with attractive returns tailored to the needs of our customers.”

About Nouryon

We are a global specialty chemicals leader. Markets worldwide rely on our essential chemistry in the manufacture of everyday products such as paper, plastics, building materials, food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. Building on our nearly 400-year history, the dedication of our 10,000 employees, and our shared commitment to business growth, strong financial performance, safety, sustainability, and innovation, we have established a world-class business and built strong partnerships with our customers. We operate in over 80 countries around the world and our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Eka, Dissolvine, Trigonox, and Berol.

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