Eastman finishes retrofit, startup of newly-acquired plasticizer plant in Texas
Eastman Chemical says it has completed the retrofit and startup of its non-phthalate plasticizer manufacturing facility in Texas City, Texas.
Eastman acquired the former Sterling Chemicals plant in mid-2011 as part of its $100 million purchase of the company.
The facility, which will primarily produce Eastman 168 non-phthalate plasticizer, will increase the overall capacity of Eastman 168 by approximately 60%, the company said.
Further capacity increases are possible with minimal investment at the Texas City site as demand for non-phthalate plasticizers continues to grow, Eastman said.
“We are committed to continual growth in our business and are happy to announce the startup of the non-phthalate plasticizer facility in Texas City,” said Heidi Barnes, oxo and plasticizers business director within the company’s performance chemicals and intermediates segment.
“This additional capacity will allow us to serve the growing demand for non-phthalate plasticizers such as Eastman 168 around the globe.”
Non-phthalate plasticizers are broadly used in products such toys, childcare items, food contact materials and medical devices, and are also used to provide flexibility to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in applications.
End markets for non-phthalate plasticizers include building and construction, health and wellness, and infant care.
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