October
A NEW GIANT REACTOR IN THE UNITED STATES
In order to support the growth of its North American customers in the markets for superabsorbents, paints, adhesives and flocculating agents for water treatment, Arkema brought on stream a new 90,000-ton acrylic acid reactor at its Clear Lake site in Texas.
October
A SECOND LIFE FOR OUR POLYMERS
In partnership with Agiplast, a pioneer in the manufacture and regeneration of engineering plastic compounds, Arkema’s Technical Polymers business announced a new program to recycle high-performance polyamides and PVDF fluoropolymers. This Virtucycle® program enables customers to partner with Arkema for post-industrial and post‑consumer recycling projects.
October
OUR POWDERS ARE GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH
Arkema has started up a new production line at its Mont plant, in France, for its high‑performance fine polyamide 12 powders under the name Orgasol®. This has increased the Group’s global capacity by over 50% to support strong demand in the coatings, personal care, composites and 3D printing markets.
October
THE ELECTRIC CAR RACE IN CHINA
To support the growth of the lithium-ion battery market for electric vehicles, Arkema is increasing the production capacity for its Kynar® PVDF fluoropolymer at its Changshu plant by approximately 50%.
November
A NEW R&D CENTER DEDICATED TO 3D PRINTING
Arkema opened a new Global Center of Excellence for 3D Printing within its Cerdato R&D Center in Serquigny, Normandy, in France. Dedicated to additive manufacturing based on high-performance polymers, and equipped with the latest-generation printers, it will help companies in the region to encourage adoption of these new production methods.