Eastman expands plasticizers production in Texas

Eastman Chemical has completed a previously-announced capacity expansion of its Eastman 168 non-phthalate plasticizers at its manufacturing facility in Texas City, Texas, the company said on Thursday.

The expansion at the site increased the overall capacity of Eastman 168 by approximately 15%.

 

“We are pleased with the completion of this important expansion,” said Jon Woods, director of Eastman's plasticizers business. “Since this expansion leveraged an existing asset, it was completed with minimal capital investment.” 

“With our view of global demand for DEHT at 500,000 tons in 2014, we see continued demand for non-phthalate plasticizers and expect the market to need our next phase of capacity expansion by mid-2016,” he added. “This additional capacity would also leverage the existing plants in Kingsport and Texas City and be a relatively low cost investment that would take our full capacity for Eastman 168 above 200,000 tons. 

"The combination of our Kingsport and Texas City manufacturing allows Eastman to sustain its leadership position to serve both the North American and export markets, with Europe being a particular area of focus.” 

Non-phthalate plasticizers are broadly used in products such as toys, childcare items, food contact materials and medical devices, and are also used to provide flexibility to PVC in a wide variety of applications. 

End markets for non-phthalate plasticizers include building and construction, health and wellness, and a broad range of consumer products.