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Polymers

HP Impact: Unconventional oil and gas to boost US trade position

Hydrocarbon Processing Staff: Thinnes, Billy

The economic and employment contributions from US unconventional oil and gas production are now being felt throughout the US economy, increasing household incomes, boosting trade and contributing to a..

Chevron Phillips sells China polystyrene business

“The polystyrene plant is a productive and valued asset, but as a standalone operation for Chevron Phillips Chemical in China, the company has determined the asset is not a strategic fit,” said Dan Coombs, senior vice president of specialties, aromatics and styrenics for Chevron Phillips Chemical.

Global HPI spending likely to jump 15% in 2014

HP Editorial Staff: HP News

Newfound optimism stems from rising availability of gas supplies in several nations, rich shale reserves in North America, and a new expansion wave for petrochemicals.

Eastman to expand Texas City plasticizers plant

The expansion at the Texas City site will increase the overall capacity of Eastman 168 by about 15% and is expected to be operational by mid-2014. Investment terms were not disclosed.

PolyOne expands India operations with new plant

The new PolyOne facility in Pune, India, will operate development labs and the sales and customer service center for the broader region. It is expected to open in the first quarter of 2014.

Dow Chemical to sell polypropylene catalysts business to Grace

HP Editorial Staff: HP News

The sale includes Dow’s polypropylene catalysts manufacturing plant at Norco, Louisiana, as well as all customer contracts, licenses, intellectual property and inventory.

HP Brief

Hydrocarbon Processing Staff: Thinnes, Billy

Changes on the horizon at Harburg refineryNynas has received approval from the European Commission to take over production and responsibility for the base oil plant and associated production units at ..

Invista aligns with Ingenza to develop bio-based industrial chemicals

The collaboration will leverage INVISTA’s capabilities in biotechnology and catalysis, as well as its knowledge of the chemicals industry. It will also utilize Ingenza’s synthetic biology and industrial biotechnology capabilities for the development of new, bio-derived routes to industrial chemicals.

Shale boom not cutting US polyethylene user costs

Despite the shale boom, the price of polyethylene in the US has generally risen over the past few years. The type most used typically costs around 75 cents/lb, up from an average of 64 cents in 2010.

Total to shut Eastern France naphtha cracker, invest in polymers

HP Editorial Staff: HP News Services

The company's investments at Carling include the creation of a thermoplastics unit, reinforcing its polystyrene business and the upgrading of its polyethylene production unit.