Ceresana has recently published the second, completely revised edition of its market study on masterbatches. The top-selling type of masterbatch is currently white masterbatches and the global demand for this type has increased by an average of 2.1 % p.a. over the last eight years, reveals the report.

With an aim to strengthen its position in Expancel expandable microspheres, Nouryon has plans to invest in a new US plant in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The facility is expected to meet the growing demand of Expancel across the globe.

Avantium plans to commercialise its plants-to-plastics technologies and for this purpose the company has already begun operations of its plant-based Meg demonstration plant and intends to undertake an investment decision for the construction of a new FDCA flagship plant in the Netherlands by the end of the year.

The unique Veova Silane resin can be used by paint producers and formulators for moisture-curing, isocyanate-free, and high-performance coatings. This is also the maiden commercial scale production of a resin based on Hexion's innovative Veova Silane Technology.

Located in the USA, Evonik’s new technology center for 3D printing will prove vital for the development of new, ready-to-use materials for powder bed fusion manufactured by the Structured Polymers technology.

China’s Shenghong Refining Petrochemical Co. has selected KBR to supply proprietary catalyst for its 300 KTA Vinyl Acetate Monomer project in China. Vinyl Acetate Monomer is a vital intermediate used for the production of polymers and resins.

Targeting India’s expanding road-building industry; Total and Indian Oil have established a 50:50 joint venture firm to produce and market high-quality bitumen derivatives. Under the terms of the deal, the new JV Company will set up manufacturing units in different parts of India.

Under an agreement signed between Nusaned Investment, a company owned by Sabic, and a local Saudi firm Suhul Alkhalej, the two companies will own and operate a factory to manufacture wood-plastic composite profiles.

The organic peroxides capacity will be expanded at Nouryon’s Itupeva facility in Brazil. With this move, the company intends to strengthen its Polymer Catalysts business comprising of organic peroxides and metal alkyls.

The acquisition is expected to expand Nouryon’s product range in carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The investment is in line with the company’s strategy of strengthening its position in potential high growth markets.