Plastic news june 2014 by AIPMA Office

SAY YES TO PLASTICS Volume No. 79

MH/MR/N/200/MBI/12- 14

Issue No. 6

Pages 66

June 2014

Rs. 75.00

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CONTENT

IN THIS ISSUE... 17...... AIPMA At Work ...AIPMA JOB – FAIR 2014 The Official Organ of The All India Plastics Manufacturers Association Estd. 1945

MH/MR/N/200/MBI/12-14 Volume 79

June 2014 No. 6

Chairman - Editorial Board

Mr. Anandilal Oza

Hon. Editor

Mr. Ajay Desai

Members

Mr. A. E. Ladhaboy Dr. Y. B. Vasudeo Ms. Poorvi Desai

19...... Interview 20...... Company News 25...... Features

Editorial Co-ordination: Padmesh Prabhune, Dhruv Communications, Mumbai, Tel No: 00-22-2868 5198 / 5049 Fax No : 00-22-28685495 • email: dhruvpr@vsnl.net Published by Ms. Umaa Gupta on behalf of the owners, The All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association Plot No. A-52, Road No. 1, M.I.D.C., Andheri (E), Mumbai-400 093. Tel: 67778899 • Fax : 00-22-2821 6390 E-mail : office@aipma.net Website : http://www.aipma.net and printed by her at Dhote Offset Technokrafts Pvt. Ltd., Goregaon (E), Mumbai-400 063.

... Interpack 2014 ... If you are looking to metal-to-plastic conversion then you need to ask some logical questions ... Sidel launches carbonated drinks option for its PET bottle base

Annual Subscription Rs. 1,000/-

... StackTeck’s QPC: Quick changeovers on large stack moulds; smaller tonnage machine

Single issue Rs. 75/Views/Reports/Extracts etc. published in Plastics News are those of the

... And now Tomato-based bioplastic for vehicles

authors and not necessarily of the Editor. Furthermore except for copies

... Milano Recycle City conference showcases the city’s successful organic waste collection model

of formal AIPMA communications no other matter in this journal should be interpreted as views of The All India Plastics Mfgrs. Association.

... Samsung starts up Chinese engineering plastics plant

OFFICE BEARERS Mr. Anandilal Oza President

Mr. Sanju Desai Vice President (West Zone)

Mr. R. K. Aggarwal Vice President (North Zone)

Mr. Rituraj Gupta Hon. Secretary

Mr. Anil Bansal Vice President (South Zone)

Mr. Manoj R. Shah Hon. Jt. Secretary

Mr. Ashok Agarwal Vice President (East Zone)

Mr. Haren Sanghavi Hon. Treasurer

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33...... International News 46...... Business News 51...... Product News 57...... Technology 59...... In the News 63...... Events

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THE PRESIDENT SAYS

Packaging Africa he Packaging Industry has been growing over

said packaging is an important

the years and is set to increase its presence.

attribute, whilst 36% said they

Most of us at the recently concluded Interpack 2014

tried new brands because

have experienced the potential of this industry.

the packaging enticed them.

Interpack 2014 attracted 2700 exhibitors from 60

Interestingly enough, however,

countries as well as about 179,000 visitors this year.

only 10% of consumers

The atmosphere was vibrant. Low-cost and eco-

questioned indicated that they

friendly persuasion are the key trends for packaging

were completely satisfied with the packaging that they

With the cut-throat competition the role of packaging

came across.

has become a crucial factor that drives consumer

Charles Muller, Executive Director of the Packaging

spending and behavior not only in developed but the

Council of South Africa (PACSA) has said on record

under-developed and developing countries as well.

that with better quality food and healthcare, people

According to a study Packaging sector is to see

in Africa are living longer. Similarly, we see more

a solid growth in Africa. South Africa and Nigeria

single parent families and smaller family units with

are currently regarded as Africa’s two most powerful

couples choosing to have fewer kids than we did a

economies that are also driving the spending and

generation or two ago,” explains Muller. As a result,

packaging trends on the continent. Nigeria, Africa's

there is a growing demand for single serve meals and

most populous country and largest oil producer,

convenience or microwavable food. “Time, or in many

recently emerged as the continent's biggest economy

cases the lack of it, has created a major demand for

following the announcement of its gross domestic

convenience or “on the go” packaging that allows

product that placed the country ahead of continental

the consumer to buy, cook and serve the food in one

powerhouse South Africa as new and fast-developing

package, or that is able to heats or cool itself.

sectors such as telecoms, music and local film industry,

Apart from enticing consumers to buy, the role, form

are considered in the GDP rebasing.

and function of packaging has also changed in recent

According to Finance Minister NgoziOkonjo-Iwela,

years in step with the changing demographics of our

Nigeria's economy is expected to increase by as much

modern society.

as 60%, taking it from $264 billion past South Africa's

Hope fully we are able to tap the African markets

$384 billion, which is expected to grow from its current

successfully.

2% to 5.4% by 2030. Anandilal Oza Moreover according to recent findings released by

president@aipma.net

MeadWestvac for the country, 41% of respondents P LLAAS ST ITCISCNSE W N SE W S

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FROM THE EDITOR'S PEN

Innovations leading the way nterpack 2014 provided many insights. The

Wa c k e r, o n t h e o t h e r

dominating themes at interpack 2014 as most

hand, has developed a novel

of us know, were resource efficiency for plant and

dispersible polymer powder

machinery as well as for packaging material usage,

for modifying cementitious and

quality and safety to guarantee perfect and counterfeit-

gypsum-based dry-mix mortars.

proof finished products – especially in Food/Beverage

Called as VINNAPAS 8620 E,

and Pharmaceuticals.

it is based on a terpolymer of

vinyl chloride, vinyl acetate and ethylene, and is ideal

This month saw some new formulation for

for the formulation of high-quality, low-emission tile

adhesives and innovative ways for deriving bio plastics

adhesives.

as well. The case in point in is (Saudi Basic Industries Corp.) SABIC’s technology that converts used

In the end product, the new dispersible polymer

biological materials. SABIC plans to use cooking-oil

powder ensures a long open time and enhanced

and fat waste to produce plastics, expanding beyond

flexibility combined with excellent tensile adhesion

its traditional naphtha and gas feedstock as European

strength, even after water or freeze/thaw conditions.

manufacturers seek packaging from renewable

With this VINNAPAS 8620 E in the formulation, it is

sources. Sabic has developed technology to convert

even possible to reliably bond modern large-format

used biological material into supplies for its polymer

or very thin tiles, and porcelain or natural-stone

factories, and is targeting European customers in

materials. It is learnt that the dispersible polymer

areas such as packaging for food and medicines.

powder was specifically developed for the formulation of sophisticated tile adhesives of categories C2E or

Whereas SABIC seems keen to explore the

C2ES1 and C2ES2 as per EN 12004 that feature an

European markets, Ford and Heinz in their thrust for

extended open time and high flexibility. It thus offers

innovation have come together to produce Tomato-

users additional formulation reliability. Alongside

based bioplastic for vehicles. This is something no

exceptional product and processing properties, it also

one would have expected. But that’s true. Its win-win

exhibits good environmental compatibility, because

situation for both as Heinz ends up with a lot of tomato

the product is free of plasticizing additives and thus

waste and Ford could explore the use of tomato fiber

makes it possible to formulate low-emission tile

to develop a more sustainable bioplastic material for

adhesives.

automobiles.

Hon. Editor

While Bio-plastics has been on the forefront for

Ajay Desai

quite some time development in formulations are also leading. P LLAAS ST ITCISCNSE W N SE W S

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AIPMA AT WORK

AIPMA JOB – FAIR 2014 Kishore Sampat Chairman - AIPMA Placement Cell IPMA organized its 2nd edition of Job Fair in June 2014. The job fair was divided into four zones viz Chennai, Kolkatta, Delhi and Mumbai.

The first Job fair for this edition year was held in Chennai on June 7, 2014 at 10.00 am. Dr. M. Abdul Kader – Chief Manager (Technical) CIPET was the Chief Guest for the event. There were more than 145 candidates interviewed by 9 visiting Employers. Of these more than 15 candidates were successfully employed (appointed). The employers were from Chennai and Pondicherry.

Mr. Kishore Sampat - Chairman - AIPMA Placement Cell along with candidates at Kolkata

Ashok Agarwal Vice President – East Zone along with Mr. A. Ramarethinam, Mr. Tapas Ray and Mr. Gautom. It was only because of their dedication and extended support that we could achieve the success. We thank-you for the support and having Placement Cell at both the Zonal offices and we look forward for more events of such nature in these offices in future. The job fair in Delhi is scheduled on Saturday June 21, 2014 while the job fair in Mumbai is on Saturday June 28, 2014. We look forward to continuous support.

Mr. Kishore Sampat - Chairman - AIPMA Placement Cell along with candidates at Chennai

The next job fair was held on June 14, 2014 at Kolkata. Our Vice President Mr. Ashok Agarwal was the Master of Inauguration Ceremony. Mr. D. Bhattacharya – Chief Manager, CIPET, Haldia and Mr. R. D. Narain Karthigeyan – Placement, Haldia Petrochemicals Pvt. Ltd. were the Chief Guests for the event. The inauguration ceremony was graced by visitors from several Institutions namely CIPET – Guwahati, Calcutta Institute of Technology and other Institutions. Around 150 candidates were interviewed by 5 visiting employers and interestingly interview for one of the candidate from Nepal was through Skype. In all these more than12 candidates were successfully appointed.

Mr. Ashok Agarwal - Vice President - East Zone, Mr. Kishore Sampat - Chairman - AIPMA Placement Cell, Mr. Tapas Ray Regional Manager - East Zone felicitating Mr. D. Bhattacharya - Chief Manager (Project) – CIPET, Haldia.

Such a Job fair was for the first time very successful in these zones under the able leadership and guidance from our Mr. Anil Bansal Vice President– South Zone and Mr. P L A S T I C S N E W S

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INTERVIEW What are the products of UMA Group?

however the recent developments or innovations of the organizations are Lamitube, contraceptive wraps, pharmapackaging: strip & blister, bio-degradable laminate. Apart from above, the group is also aggressively working on to have a good presence in exports markets to UK, USA, African counties.

At Uma , we provide flexible packaging solutions for a variety of products like snack foods, confectioneries & candies, salt, sugar, rice, tea, coffee, cereals & Mr. Shripal Lodha, CMD pulses, spices, noodles, flour, soaps & Uma Group of Companies detergents, oil & lubricants , biscuits, frozen foods, pharmaceuticals, contraceptives, fertilizers, automotive & engineering components, lami-tubes etc.

What are the challenges faced by the company, be it infrastructure, talent crunch, government policy ? Non-Availability of technical experienced manpower Technically sound manpower is not available in the state, also one has to face 'Squeezed Margins & Competition' from small & unorganized manufacturers.

What are the latest new products / innovative solutions offered by the company? Lamitube : (Alu Barrier Laminate : foil base & Plastic Barrier Laminate (transparent), Condom –Laminate , Easy Peelable Laminates (Pet/PE, Foil/VMCH)- Lid application, Breathable Laminates ((PET /Poly) - Medical Industries, Embossed foil Laminates with Paper – A new innovation towards Embossed Paper and increase -Aesthetic., Fluorescent color Print - A new innovation towards a different Print Look - Aesthetic, Ketch up pouches -1 kg & 3kg (4 ply – for hot filled application) , Retort & Microwave Laminates & Pouches, Cold seal laminates for confectionaries/chocolate bars, Woven fabric PE extruded Laminates for heavy duty bags- 10/15/20 kg, Shaped and spouted pouches of various designs - as per requirement ,Wrap around labels for Pet bottles, Aroma flavored pouches , Semi aseptic packaging Laminates.

What are the awards / recognition received till date? •

Adjudged as the Best Vendor for Flexible Laminates by PepsiCo in 2012.

•

Won India Star 2012 award by IIP for its innovations.

•

Won Asia Star 2012 award by Asian Packaging Federation in 2013 for development of ETA pouch family.

•

Won World Star Award 2013, (The Oscars in the field of Packaging) for Packaging Excellence by World Packaging Organization for innovations.

•

Has been serving world class MNCs since inception and focus is on export market.

What is your opinion on the current trends in Packaging Industry?

What is the turnover of the company for the year? What was financial result for 2013-14

According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, India is the largest packaging market worldwide and the packaging industry is expected to grow at 12.3% CAGR during next 4-5 years to become the fourth largest global market, with sales of $42.7 billion.

The Gross turnover of the group is INR 4500 Millions and is expected to rise by another 15-20 % Y-o-Y growth. What is the strength of the company in terms of Operations and Employee structure?

According to industry estimates, there are more than 22,000 registered packaging companies in India of which more than 85 per cent are small and medium units. The organized sector in India accounts for about 50 per cent of the volumes, while, the balance is highly fragmented and distributed. Flexible packaging finds varied use because of its ability to provide strength, moisture resistance, aroma retention, grease resistance, heat retention, seal ability, printability and gloss.

We have a Strong Leadership with an experienced team so that all the challenges can be met. Does the company have Pan India Presence? Uma Groups serves to all the clients present in each corner of India. Our supply chain is extended to Pan- India What are the markets the company would like to explore? Currently company is catering to clients across India, P L A S T I C S N E W S

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COMPANY NEWS

Vizag-Kakinada PCPIR releases final draft master plan he Visakhapatnam- Kakinada Petroleum, Chemical and Petrochemical Investment Region Special Development Authority (VKPCPIR SDA) has released the final draft master plan and zonal development plans with revised land use proposals. It has submitted the plans to the government. The first draft master plan and zonal development plans were announced in August 2013, calling for objections and suggestions from people residing or owning properties within the inspected area, as well as the local bodies operating there. They were given 120 days to file proposals and objections. A total of

936 objections were filed by individuals and local bodies. The PCPIR SDA conducted interactive sessions with various groups and representatives of local bodies including political parties on the proposals placed in the draft master plan. It then constituted a committee of experts to examine the objections filed. Based on the committee’s recommendations, the draft master plan and zonal development plans were revised. These were submitted to the Government and published, calling for any objection by affected persons within 15 days.

Teknor receives Innovation in Bioplastics Award PI has presented its second annual “Innovation in Bioplastics Award” to Teknor Apex Company for development of Terraloy® high-impact, heat-resistant polylactic acid (PLA) compounds, which are compostable and generate less greenhouse gas than standard resins for applications such as disposables and food ware, it was announced today by the Bioplastics Division of Teknor Apex.

T h e n e w Te r r a l o y H D T P L A compounds are available in extrusion grades for thermoformed products like lids, cups, bowls, and trays and injection molding grades for cutlery, P L A S T I C S N E W S

cups, and bowls. Besides being FDA compliant, the compounds have been designated by our customers as compostable in accordance with the ASTM D-6400 standard, and Teknor Apex has received USDA BioPreferred certification. Bio-based content of the molding and extrusion grades is 84 and 96%, respectively. In a life-cycle analysis, Terraloy HDT PLA compound exhibited slightly more potential for greenhouse gas generation than uncompounded PLA resin and less than half that of high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), which is commonly used in many target applications. 20

Turkmengaz awards gas complex EPC contract to Toyo, Hyundai and LG oyo Engineering, Hyundai Engineering, Hyundai Engineering and Construction and LG International have won an EPC contract for Turkmengaz’ gas chemical complex in western Turkmenistan.com.

The US$3 bln complex in the Balkan province will include a 5m m3/y gas separation unit, a 400,000 tpa ethylene production unit and an 80,000 tpa polypropylene production unit. It will produce ethylene, high density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene from gas from the Caspian Sea. The complex’s products will be sold mainly in Asia, the EU and Turkey. Toyo’s COREFLUX (cold reflux) technology will be used for ethane and LPG recovery in the gas separation plant, while BASF’s OASE technology will be used for acid gas removal. Lummus’ technology will be used for ethylene production and WR Grace’s technology for polypropylene production. The project is expected to be completed in 2018.

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COMPANY NEWS

Honeywell's UOP technology selected to meet growing demand for propylene uangdong Peng Zun Energy Development Co., Ltd., a Chinese petrochemical producer, has selected Honeywell's UOP C3 Oleflexâ&#x201E;˘ process technology to convert propane to propylene.

This will be the first propane dehydrogenation project in the Southern Guangzhou region, which is a major trade hub for Southeast Asia located near Macau and Hong Kong. The project also is the 20th announced license for UOP's Oleflex technology since the beginning of 2011 as petrochemical producers globally move to meet growing demand for

propylene and isobutylene. This marks the 16th time that UOP's Oleflex process has been selected by Chinese petrochemical producers. China's demand for propylene is expected to more than triple by 2020 from 2011 levels. Guangdong Peng Zun will install the technology at its facility in the Donghai Island Port Chemical Industrial Zone in Zhanjiang, China where it will produce 450,000 metric tons of propylene per year starting in 2016. In addition to technology, UOP will provide training, technical services, catalysts, adsorbents, and equipment

EPS Qatar to use Ineos Technologies' EPS process for its new complex in Doha neos Technologies has licensed its Ineos EPS process for the manufacture of regular and flame retardant expandable polystyrene (EPS) to EPS Qatar at a new complex to be built in the Doha region, Qatar.

The 50,000 tpa (ktpa) Ineos EPS plant will produce a wide range of expandable polystyrene grades to cover all the applications from construction to packaging and serve the growing demand in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The plant will feature expansion capabilities to reach 100 ktpa in a second phase. The EPS Qatar plant

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will be the biggest EPS unit in the MENA region.â&#x20AC;? The Ineos EPS process will provide EPS Qatar with an advanced and robust EPS process with advantaged economics and broad product reach." Ineos Technologies is one of the leading developers and licensors of technologies for the global petrochemicals industry. It offers a broad range of petrochemical technologies in the market and also supplies catalysts, additives and coatings that its customers require to obtain the best possible performance from their investments.

for the project. Compared with competing processes, UOP's Oleflex technology provides the smallest environmental footprint, the lowest cash cost of production, and the highest return on investment. The technology consistently delivers superior performance due to its high reliability, low energy usage, high propylene yields, and proven continuous catalyst regeneration (CCR) technology.

Kentz to supply support services to petrochem plants in Saudi Arabia entz has won a lucrative contract to supply support services to several petrochemical plants under construction in Saudi Arabia. The Sadara Chemical Company is constructing a series of petrochemical plants near the industrial city of Jubail.

Kentz said it has been hired to supply manpower, management and skilled labour The Company will also support construction, commissioning and start-up activities.

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COMPANY NEWS

IPCL in discussion with Dighi Port to handle ethylene shipments ndian Petrochemicals Corporation Limited (IPCL), has begun discussions with Dighi Port to handle ethylene shipments which are currently handled by Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust in Navi Mumbai. Dighi Port is located 170 kms from Mumbai by road and around 42 Nautical miles from Mumbai.

with Maritime Board, which has not invested anything so far.

This port in the Raigad district of Maharashtra is currently being developed by Balaji Infrastructure in partnership with IL&FS and state Maritime Board.

“We are in negotiations with Reliance Industries logistics partner Aegis to handle its subsidiary Indian Petrochemicals’ (IPCL) ethylene shipments at our facility. If it works out this will majorly boost our volumes which crossed 1.1 million in FY14,” Vijay Kalantri, Chairman and Managing Director of Balaji Infra Projects, the holding company of Dighi Port, told PTI during a visit to the facility in Raigad district over the weekend.

The total estimated cost of developing this port is around Rupees 2,500 Crores.Balaji Infra holds 69 per cent stake in the project and IL&FS 21%, while the remaining is

From the port’s perspective, things have been going very well so far. When fully developed by 2020 in two phases with a total investment of Rs 5,500 crore, the Port will have a capacity of

Wison completes EPC services at Petrochima’s Sichuan LLDPE project ison has completed EPC services to enable commercial production at a 300,000 tpa linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) plant at Sichuan. This is the last start-up project in PetroChina Sichuan Integrated Petrochemical and Refinery Complex (Sichuan Project).

Currently, all the six projects in the Complex undertaken by Wison Engineering have started successful operations, as per Fibre2fashion.com. The Complex, with a total of 19 main units, includes two parts: one is the 10 P L A S T I C S N E W S

MTA oil refinery plant and the other one is 800,000 tpa ethylene plant. As one of the main EPC services supplier, Wison Engineering undertook the task of building six main units, including the ethylene cracking furnace and pipe-racks, the Linear LowDensity Polyethylene Plant, the wax oil hydrocracking plant, the integrated paraxylene-aromatic unit (including PSA), the integrated sulfur recovery plant, and the wide-area covering auxiliary units as well.

over 70 million ton per annum with 15 berths. The 30-mt first phase is slated to be completed by 2015 with five berths, two on the south bank and the rest on the north bank, Kalantri said. The South Bank facility is what is critical for industries such as Ambani’s as its stated to be the one handling coal, bauxite, LNG, CNG and crude oil.Currently customers of the Dighi Port include Posco Steel, which is its largest client importing steel coils, and coal and bauxite traders. Kalantri said the Port has commitments from Uttam Galva Steel from next month, while talks with other steel mills like Essar and Bhushan are in advanced stage.

Asahi to double production of PP spunbonded non wovens sahi Kasei Spunbond Thailand (AKST) is to double its production of polypropylene spunbonded nonwovens with the installation of a dedicated new line. The ¥5 billion investment at the company’s plant in the Saha Group Industrial Park in Siracha, Chonburi Province, Thailand, will give it a capacity of 40,000 tons annually on start-up in November 2015.

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COMPANY NEWS

STEER appoints Atanu Maity as President & CEO teer Engineering, a globally acknowledged force in the polymer processing machine industry and a creator of state-of-the-art products catering to the polymer, powder coating, pharmaceutical and food processing industries, announced the appointment of Atanu Maity as President and Chief Executive Officer. We are extremely pleased to have Atanu join STEER as President & CEO,” said Dr. Babu Padmanabhan – Founder & Managing Director – STEER Engineering.

In this role, Atanu will be responsible for the overall business operation, strategy and direction for the company. Atanu brings more than 25 years of global industry experience and leadership to STEER, including rich experiences in Business Development,

P&L leadership and market innovation as well as strategic partnerships. He joins STEER from Ingersoll Rand where he served as Head - Business Operations for Climate Solutions. During his tenure, Climate Solutions vertical at Ingersoll demonstrated strong growth in revenue, income and active client base. Prior to this, he held the position of Sr. VP - Business Development at Sona-Koyo Steering Systems where he orchestrated leadership and direction to marketing-sales & Greenfield projects, achieving positive top-line. Atanu also held leadership position at Schlumberger which is a global leader in Oilfield services. Atanu holds a Masters in Management from London Business School has a B.Tech from IIT - Madras.

BCPL’s Assam gas cracker likely to commence production next year rahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL) Assam gas cracker likely to commence production next year. According to reports the Assam gas cracker project at Lepetkata is almost on its way towards completion .It is anticipated that the plant should be able to commence production early next year.

Moreover the mechanical completion of the plant likely to be achieved by August 2014, a minimum of six months after commissioning the unit is required to commence production.

SIBUR strengthens BOPP film production Borealis' HDPE in Burghausen to go capabilities in Russia ussian gas processing and petrochemicals company SIBUR has strengthened its biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film production capabilities in Novokuybyshevsk, Samara Oblast, Russia, with a new production line.

The project was carried out by BIAXPLEN, a part of SIBUR Holding, with an investment of RUB1.9 bln (US$55.6 mln), which created 100 new jobs. The new 30,500 mtpa production

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line, which is manufactured by German firm Brückner Maschinenbau, has increased BOPP film production capacity at Novokuybyshevsk to 55,500 mtpa. It is designed to boost BIAXPLEN's supply of five-layer films to the Russian and European markets, including Italy, Poland, Germany, France and Turkey, as well as increase the volume of SIBUR's own polypropylene processing.

offline in October he 175,000 tpa HDPE line at the Borealis site in Burghausen, Germany, is on schedule to be shuttered this year. The company said the Bavarian facility will not be re-started after a scheduled maintenance in October and will be officially mothballed by the end of 2014.

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COMPANY NEWS

Clariant completes capacity expansion in Indonesia lariant has inaugurated enhancements to its production capabilities and service support for its customers in Indonesia and South East Asia and Pacific (SEA&P) at an official ceremony at its Tangerang site. The significant increase in production capacity and upgrading of local facilities will better support the strong growth in demand for pigments, masterbatches, personal care, home care and industrial care ingredients in local and overseas markets.

The investments by the Business Units Industrial & Consumer Specialties, Masterbatches and Pigments highlight Clariant’s commitment to strengthen its long-term provision of value added services to customers in Indonesia and SEA&P. Clariant is represented in eight locations in Indonesia, with approximately 800 employees across its six production sites and three application and technical centers.

The company is one of the leaders in Indonesia and SEA&P in the areas of pigments, plastics, oil & gas, catalysts and edible oil refinery. In 2013, SEA&P accounted for 30% of Clariant’s sales in Asia and 7% of global sales.

amsung Total Petrochemicals Co Ltd has announced that a small quantity of a petrochemical product leaked into the sea from a newly-built paraxylene plant in South Korea. The company has cleaned it up. As per economictimes.com, about 2.4 kilolitres of para di ethyl benzene leaked while flowing to test pipelines of the new plant at the company's P L A S T I C S N E W S

a new pigment preparations plant, doubling capacity to support the growth in demand for high quality, low volatile organic compounds (VOC) pigment preparations complying with eco labeling schemes such as blue angel and equivalent schemes in other regions.

certification of the Tangerang site with ISO 50001 Energy Management System. This benchmark certification promotes systematic energy savings and better environmental performance.

Clariant’s extension of its production and service capabilities at Tangerang includes: *

doubling of existing production capacity and an enlarged application development laboratory to enhance support for customers in the personal care and industrial care sectors. The upgraded facilities have been awarded ISO 22716 Cosmetics Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification. a new plant for masterbatches, doubling production capacity with the option for further increases. The investment extends the variety and availability of Clariant’s

Samsung Total cleans up leak from Paraxylene from South Korea plant

products to meet local demand for masterbatches from a wide range of end-industries, including packaging and consumer goods.

Daesan petrochemical complex. The leak occurred during testing of the new paraxylene plant, and the clean-up has already been completed. The joint venture between Samsung group and France's Total SA is now looking into the causes of the leak, as per a spokesperson. The new plant has an annual production capacity of 1 million tons of paraxylene and 420,000 tons of benzene. 24

Borouge 3 facility ready for start-up in UAE he new 1.5 mln tpa ethylene producing Borouge 3 cracker is set to deliver its first batch of commercial ethylene in the UAE by the end of May.

Expanded at an investment outlay of around US$4 bln, the cracker has has been in a precommissioning phase the last eight weeks. Capacities comprise 540,000 tpa HDPE and 350,000 tpa LLDPE. 80,000 tpa of XLPE line is also planned along with two PP facilities producing a total of 960,000 tpa.

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FEATURES

Interpack 2014 he world’s most prestigious packaging industry fair – Interpack – attracted 2700 exhibitors from 60 countries as well as about 179,000 visitors this year. The atmosphere was vibrant and many contacts were forged.

In the midst of other packaging companies in the Innovation parc Packaging, our première was a welcome opportunity get acquainted with new potential customers. Visitors and exhibitors convened to creatively exchange thoughts in the SAVE FOOD context and jointly develop visionary idea regarding fundamental social, economic, and ecology topics. Accordingly, seats and standing room in the forum were always booked during the presentations that were held there. Malte Jonsson, VP Sales & Marketing, lectured on “Steamplicity – how Compass Group helped hospitals reduce Food Waste through Innovative Packaging Solutions from Wipf AG” and was delighted to be able to address such a large audience Low-cost and eco-friendly

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persuasion are the key trends for packaging related to bakery and confectionery, as energy and raw materials are becoming more expensive and consumers want to do more for the environment. This is forcing manufacturers of sweets and snacks to make difficult adjustments: their products have to stand out from the crowd, without extravagant packages that drive up costs. Help is on hand from packaging producers and machine manufacturers – with material-saving packaging solutions and more efficient production lines, according to research announced by Interpack. “Halloren Kugeln” chocolates have been a longstanding favourite on the confectionery shelves, and without much publicity. A big-selling product for over 60 years, they have repeatedly assured the Halloren chocolate factory in East Germany of outstanding business figures. In 2013, the company aims to pass the EUR 100 million sales mark for the first time after roughly EUR 90 million in 2012.

1992, we’ve managed to hold our own on the market without neglecting our roots and what we do best,” says CEO Klaus Lellé.

Innovations Showcased At Interpack 2014, many packaging innovations for confectionery and baked goods were displayed from 8 to 14 May in Düsseldorf. Over 1,000 of the roughly 2,700 expected exhibitors have named the confectionery industry as the target group for their products and services – the items on display will be correspondingly varied. Machine manufacturers were also present with many new developments in Düsseldorf. “Their focus is on boosting efficiency, because every tenth of a cent counts in the production of confectionery today,” explains Beatrix Fraese of the Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association in the German Engineering Federation (VDMA). Nichrome India Ltd, a manufacturer of packaging machinery and pioneer in form fill seal machines, has developed an ultra hi-speed machine. It was launched for the first time during

“ S i n c e privatisation in

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FEATURES ‘Interpack 2014’ held recently at Dusseldorf, Germany. Developed by using the 4-axis servo driven continuous motion technology in collaboration with ProdoPak USA, Multilane, the new machine under Nichrome’s RV series will mainly be used for producing four side seal sachets or contour packs. “Multilane is operator friendly and easy to set through HMI fitted on a swiveling pendant. All GMP and safety features are built in. Any types of fillers like auger, cup, cavity, pumps can be fitted as per the product requirement,” Mrunal Joshi, Executive Director, Nichrome, said. One of the most admired machines was Marchesini’s Integra 320, the new integrated robotic blister line, previewed during the show; it is a mix of innovation of the best Italian technology, with a new machine pitch control system, a new cartoning

section and a cutting-edge carton opening and product insertion system. Among the other machines on show, greatly admired was the linear filling and capping machine Stery; it was setup for the first time ever with the Capsy capping unit and is one of the best solutions available on the marketplace for sterile packaging. Also worthy of mention is the Track and Trace line, made up of the labelling machine BLA420 and the horizontal case packer MC820.

Surviving Competition The range of sweets and snacks is exhaustive, which makes packaging the key factor in purchasing/when making the purchasing decision. It not only has to protect the product’s delicate contents, but also catch the eye. This calls for exceptional creativity from designers: attractive colours and shapes are just as important as effective consumer marketing.

However, some manufacturers of confectionery and baked goods tend to overdo it,.

Cheaper Alternatives Confectionery and baked goods manufacturers are facing massive pressure on costs, making oversized packages counterproductive, especially considering the price of energy and raw materials. For instance, the spot price for cocoa butter, which is used in the production of bars of chocolate, shot up by 80 per cent to USD 8,000 per tonne in 2013 – and this puts a squeeze on profit margins. Cost efficient alternatives involved packaging products without elaborate design and extra frills. Other strategies included resorting to downsizing, giving preference to packaging materials that are easier to recycle and that conserve resources by being thinner.

If you are looking to metal-to-plastic conversion then you need to ask some logical questions Clare Goldsberry he ability to replace a metal component with one molded out of plastic means that extremely complex shapes and geometries can be achieved easily. That also means greater design freedom and more optimum design for manufacturability.

In many cases, multiple metal parts that make up a larger component need to be welded in a secondary operation which adds to the time and the cost. P L A S T I C S N E W S

Also, where there is a welded area, there can be a tendency toward a weakness in the metal. By combining several metal parts into one molded plastic part, the resulting product or component is stronger and p e r f o r m s b e t t e r. 26

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FEATURES Additionally, plastic components are relatively maintenance free as they do not need coating or painting to protect the material. Kerry Smith, account manager for Industrial Molds Group, a mold manufacturer serving the automotive, fluid handling, medical and packaging markets, offers some sage advice when converting metal parts to plastic components. "The first step on the road to doing a metal-to-plastic conversion is ask the right questions upfront with the collaborating parties all being involved," Smith said.

It's critical to understand the customer's objective in converting a product or component in order to provide the optimum solution. If, for example, an OEM just wants to convert a component to plastic because plastic is cheaper, the OEM needs to be educated as to why that might not necessarily be the case. Next, all the parties need to do a cost-benefit analysis. Typically, a

How many parts are required monthly/annually? The higher the volume of parts needed, typically the lower the costs to injection mold the parts. What will spending the money upfront to design and build a multicavity mold, save in the long run over the life of the product given that the parts are being produced in multiples as opposed to single?

Those questions might include:

Understanding the Applications

Will there be automation involved and how with the cost of the automation save money in parts handling and secondary operations such as welding, coating, painting, etc?

What are you trying to achieve by converting from metal-to-plastic? (For example, do you want a better product? A product that is, perhaps, less costly to manufacture? A product with superior properties?)

Extremely complex shapes and geometries can be achieved easily.

What will be gained in terms of quality, cost to manufacture, product life, and functionality?

By combining, the resulting product or component is stronger and performs better.

What's driving the change? Is it Weight reduction? Or say Strength enhancement? Else is it for Aesthetic improvements?

Faster manufacturing cycles.

After the OEM has made the decision to replace a metal component with a plastic component, the next step is working through the design challenges. What works for a metal component might not translate exactly with an injection molded plastic component with respect to design.

Then we need to think what is the function of the part and What plastic material will be used? It is always advisable that all the parties involved need to drill down and answer these questions and any others that may arise as well. The next step to making a metalto-plastic conversion is to understand the application. The product engineer, the part designer, the mold designer and the molder all need to collaborate to determine the material properties required given the component's use, the stresses it will be under, and the environment in which it will operate.

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Metal-to-Plastic conversion

Higher throughput Cost -effective metal component is either fabricated out of metal via the machining process or produced from a die casting. With an injected molded plastic part, you need a mold that is in itself a complex piece of machinery. So there are other questions that arise in this analysis: What will the cost of the mold add to the overall cost of the unit price of the parts? What is the price of the plastic material? Will scrap reduction be achieved by injection molding vs. machining parts from metal (which typically results in significant scrap)? 27

Converting from metal-to-plastic allows for faster manufacturing cycles and higher throughput. However, volume is an important consideration for OEMs looking at the viability of metal-to-plastic conversions. "OEMs often forget to do the comparisons of plastic injection molds with tooling required for stamping dies or diecast dies, for example," noted Smith. "That is why asking the important questions up front and understanding the application are key to ensure the conversion is something the OEM will be happy with in the long run, and get a good return on their investment."

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Sidel launches carbonated drinks option for its PET bottle base By Heather Caliendo idel has developed a carbonated soft drinks (CSD) version of its StarLite PET bottle base. Sidel's StarLite is a uniquely shaped base that the company claims increases the overall resistance and stability of PET bottles. It can also reportedly reduce the amount of PET material needed to produce the finished bottle. The award-winning

StarLite base design was originally developed for non-carbonated drinks where the bottles are under less pressure. The still drinks version was launched in 2013, and that design won the 'Best Environmental Sustainability Initiative' category at the 2013 Global Bottled Water Awards. Seeing the potential for its usage in CSD, Sidel's packaging division took the principles adopted in the still drinks base and analyzed different base designs to achieve the optimum performance and strength for CSD products. They then carried out numerous computer simulations followed by real-world physical tests. Several Sidel customers have P L A S T I C S N E W S

trialed the StarLite CSD bottle base and have reported significant improvements in resistance to stress cracking. Under the test protocol of the International Society of Beverage Technologists (ISBT), the new base lasted 30% longer for 0.5 liter bottles, 50% longer for 1.5 liter bottles and 60% longer for 2.0 liter bottles. The base successfully completed the ISBT 24-hour creeping test under 45째C conditions, compared with 38째C required under standard testing. Sidel says that this means the base has better resistance and is less likely to burst during production or deform during transport.

and 2 liter bottles with only 20 bars compared to the previous 28-30 bars average. Again, this can lead to annual savings of up to EUR 78,700 (USD 105,00). Due to its compatibility with the Sidel Matrix system, output rates can be as high as 2,300 bottles per mold per hour for 0.5 liter bottles, 2,250 bottles per mold per hour for 1.5 liter bottles and 2,000 bottles per mold per hour for 2 liter bottles, depending on conditions and specifications.

Base weights can be reduced by up to 20% for 0.5 liter bottles (from 5g average to 4g), 19% for 1.5 liter (from 9g to 7.3g) and 17% for 2 liters (from 12g to 10g). These lightweighting opportunities can lead to cost savings of up to EUR 331,000 (USD 448,000) per year for 0.5-litre lines, EUR 563,000 (USD 762,000) per year for 1.5-litre lines and EUR 662,000 (USD 896,000) per year for 2-litre lines, according to Sidel data. Under controlled conditions, the new CSD base can be blown using as little as only 16 bars of air pressure compared to the 25 bars average for 0.5 liter bottles, saving on energy use as well. The 1.5 liter bottles can be blown with as little as 18 bars compared to the 26 bars average,

"Around 40% of this amount is packaged in PET," Naveau said. "These huge figures help explain why we are constantly striving to help beverage producers worldwide unlock value from their CSD bottles."

Laurent Naveau, packaging care manager at Sidel, said the carbonated soft drinks segment remains the second most popular after water with about 220 billion liters consumed in 2013, representing 28% of the global non-alcoholic beverage market.

He continues: "One way of doing this is to reduce bottle weight and therefore the costs of PET and the environmental footprint, while maintaining or improving bottle performance. With StarLite CSD, Sidel can help beverage producers achieve exactly this for their carbonated soft drinks production." The new design includes four key patents covering the slopes, ridges and truncations of the bottle base. The StarLite design is easier to blow than J U N E 2014

FEATURES previous CSD bases because it can be done within a wider range of parameter settings on the blower, while still achieving the desired performance, the company said. It can be used on all Sidel blowing platforms for liquid packaging - including the Sidel Matrix system - at all existing output speeds.

The base can easily be incorporated into existing bottle designs by Sidel's packaging engineering team. It can also be retrofitted onto existing production lines and molds, using Sidel's accompanying enhanced StarLite CSD mold bases and line conversion services. The

accompanying Sidel StarLite CSD mold features an enhanced venting design for optimized cooling capabilities, and was developed in tandem to reach the desired high StarLite CSD bottle base performance levels.

StackTeck’s QPC: Quick changeovers on large stack moulds; smaller tonnage machine anadian tooling solutions provider StackTeck highlights an unconventional application for a big stack mould, fitted with its Quick Product Change (QPC) features. This mould runs in a Husky Injection

Operating Modules

Molding 1,000-tonne machine, in 2x4 format enabling moulding of 8 large flat panels per cycle of the machine, thereby allowing production that should be done on a larger machine to be undertaken on a smaller machine. tackTeck’s client selected the Quick Product Change approach with manufacturing flexibility in mind. According to Angelo Morra,

Business Development Manager at StackTeck: “This customer was looking for a way to mould multiple part types using the same machine and they have achieved a change-over time of less than 1 hour using StackTeck’s proven Quick Product Change technology. They are using high performance injection moulding machines and with stack mould technology they have reduced the number of machines needed for the program by half.” A QPC mould is designed with two major components: frame and modules. The frame is designed to remain in the machine with all water, air, and electrical hook-ups remaining in place. The modules consist of core/ cavity assemblies and plate systems. Every QPC mould can be converted from single face to a stack mould configuration. The QPC approach has built in features for the alignment of modules to the frame, as well as plate-to-plate connections for services, this dramatically reduces change-over time, says Stackteck. Some of the advantages of the QPC technology are:

changes from customers Only one hot runner and frame needed per machine Reduce p r o d u c t changeover times / maximise production up-time Growth of capital i n v e s t m e n t Lowering Module c a n b e “cascaded” with “module-only” purchases as the market demand increases Standard QPC module heights and part pitches facilitate the use of robotic standards Identical modules can be moved between multiple frames including a single face frame and stack mould frames up to 4 levels.

Ability to fulfill last-minute demand P L A S T I C S N E W S

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And now Tomato-based bioplastic for vehicles f you are the one thinking tomatoes are meant for ketchup alone then you are wrong. For Ford and Heinz, known for its tomato sauce, have tied up for a noble cause.

While at first sight, cars and tomatoes may not have much in common, the collaboration between Ford and H.J. Heinz is less outlandish that would appear. Every year, Heinz uses more than two million tons of tomatoes to produce its best-selling

product: Heinz Ketchup. And every year, the company ends up with a lot of tomato waste. Hence, researchers were looking for innovative ways to recycle and repurpose the peels, stems and seeds left over from making ketchup. Ford, on the other hand, has long been experimenting with the use of innovative bioplastics and recycled non-metal materials in its cars. Nearly two years ago, Ford began collaborating with Heinz, Coca-Cola, Nike Inc. and Procter & Gamble to accelerate development of a 100% plantbased plastic to be used to make everything from fabric to packaging and with a lower environmental impact than petroleum-based packaging materials currently in use. Therefore, when Heinz approached Ford about possible uses for its tomato waste, Ford was definitely interested. The company was already using bioplastics based on soy and coconut; why not explore the use of tomato fiber to develop a more sustainable bioplastic material? After all, success in developing a new more sustainable composite could reduce the use of petrochemicals in manufacturing and reduce the impact of vehicles on the environment. "We are exploring whether this food processing byproduct

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makes sense for an automotive application," said Ellen Lee, plastics research technical specialist for Ford. "Our goal is to develop a strong, lightweight material that meets our vehicle requirements, while at the same time reducing our overall environmental impact." Although in the very early stages of research, with many questions still remaining, Heinz is also pleased that the technology has been validated and excited about the possibilities this could produce for both companies. Ford researchers are testing the material's durability for potential use in vehicle wiring brackets and storage bins. Specifically, dried tomato skins could become the wiring brackets in a Ford vehicle or the storage bin a Ford customer uses to hold coins and other small objects. Ford's commitment to reduce, reuse and recycle is part of the company's global sustainability strategy to lessen its environmental footprint while accelerating development of fuelefficient vehicle technology worldwide. In recent years, Ford has increased its use of recycled nonmetal and bio-based materials. With cellulose fiber-reinforced console components and rice hull-filled electrical cowl brackets introduced in the last year, Ford's bio-based portfolio now includes eight materials in production. Other examples are coconut-based composite materials, recycled cotton material for carpeting and seat fabrics, and soy foam seat cushions and head restraints.

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FEATURES

Milano Recycle City conference showcases the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s successful organic waste collection model Karen Laird he importance of diverting organic waste - the bulk of all waste that is generated - from landfill is now finally starting to be recognized. Not only is there a heightened awareness of the impact of landfill-generated methane emissions, the realization is growing that organic waste is a resource that can be put to work in a host of beneficial ways. Organic waste management, in short, is suddenly on the agenda, and cities around the world are trying to figure out the best way to approach the problem.

In Milan, a system introduced in February 2012 is attracting the interest of municipalities from around the world. Why? Because it works. Hence on June 6, 2014, the city organized the Milano Recycle City conference, which was attended by delegates from municipalities ranging from New York, Berlin and Ljubljana to Gothenburg and various municipalities in Holland. Key presentations focused on topics such as best practices

in separate collection in large metropolitan areas and the role of residential food waste collections in densely populated areas. Also, a closer look was taken at what Milan was doing right. Milan has developed an "integrated waste collection and disposal system" to recycle the largest possible portion of material and to produce electricity and heat through the incineration of non-recyclable materials in a waste-toenergy facility. In 2013, around 43% of all trash was collected separately; 0% went to landfill. An important part of this system is the collection of household organic waste through the introduction of a "door to door" commercial biowaste collection service. City residents welcomed the implementation of the organic waste collection system, which is being rolled out in four steps, with each step being supported by a public awareness and information campaign. Although the last part of the city - the northwestern quarter - only adopted the new system this month, the municipality already collects more than twice as much organic waste as any other European city in Europe. An average of 90 kg per person

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of organic waste is collected annually; a robust contrast to, for example, Vienna (45 kg), or Munich (31 kg) (data for 2012). Moreover, product testing shows that the average contamination level of the organic waste collected in Milan is a very low 4.27%, and so far the quality has been constant over time.

All households received a starter kit containing, among other things, with compostable waste bags and a brown small 10-liter bin. And it is these bags that underpin the efficacy of the Milan model: compostable, impermeable, hygienic, breathable and made of bioplastics which can be processed in anaerobic digestion and composting facilities, they are crucial to the success of the collection system - as well as being essential to ensuring the quality of the final compost. To ensure the quality of the bags used, bioplastics producer Novamont supported the Milanese project by making an initial free donation to the starter kit of 700,000 bags made from Mater-Bi bioplastic, which is biodegradable and compostable

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FEATURES according to international standard EN 13432. When used together with the aerated bin, these bags could be used for the collection of kitchen waste. For each metric ton of organic waste sent for composting, an estimated 94.9 kg of CO2 can be saved. In a survey taken in February of this year, comments such as "necessary, appropriate, essential and longawaited," expressed the views of over 60% of Milan's citizens. The new procedures for managing the collection of kitchen waste were not considered onerous; 90% of Milanese respondents said they were fine with the new rules that call for using a separate bin for organic waste, throwing bags into a dedicated communal bin and

remembering to buy the special bags needed. But are they really? Since the launch of the system, maintaining the quality of the bags has presented a problem. "The inhabitants of Milan, after being provided with 25 Mater-Bi bags free of charge, together with a starter kit, then have to buy special compostable bags which can be found in supermarkets or they reuse the compostable carrier bags used for carrying their shopping and distributed at the cash desks in large supermarket chains" explained Christian Garaffa, Novamont's separate collection marketing manager.

"Currently, most small retailers still use shopping bags which cannot be composted and which thus break the law. Considering that shopping bags represent 50% of combustible bags used for collecting organic waste in Milan, blanket application of the national legislation on shopping bags would make it possible to greatly increase quality of the material collected." It's ironic, really: the system is in place, the facilities work, the municipality is leading the way and the citizens are willing, even eager to cooperate. All that's needed is a little law enforcement to ensure people use the right bags. Surely that's not too much to ask? Even in Italy?

Samsung starts up Chinese engineering plastics plant amsung Cheil Industries Chemical Division has completed the construction of a new engineering plastics (EP) factory in Dongguan, Guangdong province, China.

The DSEP (Dongguan Samsung Engineering Plastics Co., Ltd.) plant, designed to mass produce high value added EP used for mobile handsets and automotive parts, is built on a space of 22,000 sq m and its four production lines have the combined capacity of 27,000 tonnes/year. The new plant in the manufacturing hub in southern China is strategically significant as Samsung Cheil Industries is now fully prepared to provide engineering plastics to Chinese customers across the country in a

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timely manner. The company now runs two factories in China -- Dongguan and Tianjin -- and one in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, South Korea. The three-way facilities will not only boost the overall production volume but also reduce logistical costs thanks to the regional supply system, thereby strengthening the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strategic sales and production competitiveness in China. Cho Nam-sung, CEO of Samsung Cheil Industries said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;By securing a production base in the southern region, which is the biggest market in China, the company has upgraded its supply capacity by a notch. In the future, we will focus on developing high value added next-generation materials so that Samsung Cheil Industries can

further beef up its competitiveness in the fast growing Chinese market.â&#x20AC;? Samsung Cheil Industries set up its sales unit in Shanghai in 2006 and built the first EP plant with the annual capacity of 24,000 tonnes in Tianjin in 2010, a move aimed at securing a production base in northern China. In 2012, the company expanded its PC 2 plant in Yeosu, increasing its polycarbonate production capacity to 240,000 tonnes/year in a way that achieved a cost competitiveness level in par with global frontrunners. Samsung Cheil Industries expects that the production hub in Dongguan will help strengthen its competitiveness in the value added materials and production capacity in the rapidly growing EP market in China.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Materia and QAPCO sign MoU for collaborative R&D efforts ateria, Inc. (Materia) and Qatar Petrochemical Company (QAPCO) have forged a partnership, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to further reinforce their collaborative R&D efforts, and to study the development of the next generation of materials produced from Qatar's existing feedstocks.

As Qatar continues to grow its energy and industrial sectors, and attempts to further optimize its hydrocarbon resources utilization, research and innovation are set to propel the future success of these sectors. To further this goal, the MOU is signed. Materia's expertise and breakthrough catalyst technology combined with QAPCO resources

will provide for the development of new products. Materia specializes in efficient feedstock utilization and the extraction of specific petrochemical and chemical compounds thanks to its unique and innovative technology. Together, they will explore the possibilities to further optimize the use of Qatar's natural resources, by studying how to extract new products from QAPCO's current feedstock, with the aim to maximize the value related to QAPCO's existing processes. Dr. Mohammed Yousef Al Mulla, Vice Chairman and CEO of QAPCO said, "Joint industry-academia R&D, such as our collaboration with Materia and Texas A&M at Qatar, is very promising. This paves the way to infinite possibilities while supporting

the growth of Qatar's knowledge-based economy. " He added Collaborating with some of the world's leading experts on research projects focusing on olefins, polymers and petrochemicals has the potential to add further value to our feedstock, which could be strongly beneficial for QAPCO and ultimately for the hydrocarbon resources of the State." Dr. Michael A. Giardello, Materia's President, CEO & CTO said, "This envisioned collaboration should enable QAPCO to extract greater value from some of its by-product streams, therefore unlocking greater value from Qatar's natural resources thanks to Materia's unique and advanced technologies.”

EPA finalizes greenhouse gas permit for OxyChem plant he U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued final greenhouse gas (GHG) Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) construction permits to Occidental Chemical Corporation (OxyChem) in Ingleside, TX.

OxyChem’s permit allows the company to build an ethylene cracker. “OxyChem’s new plant will make the most of the company’s resources,” said EPA Regional Administrator Ron Curry. “Reusing feedstock and waste heat shows that being as efficient as possible is good for business and the environment.” OxyChem’s project is a 50:50 joint venture between OxyChem and Mexichem, S.A.B. de C.V. The

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cracker will produce approximately 1.2 billion lbs pa of ethylene using cracking furnaces equipped with selective catalytic reduction technology to control emissions of nitrogen oxides. Essentially all of ethylene produced will be used on-site in the manufacture of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). The project is expected to create 1,700 construction jobs and add 150 permanent jobs once operations begin. In June 2010, EPA finalized national GHG regulations, which specify that beginning on January 2, 2011, projects that increase GHG emissions substantially will require an air permit. EPA believes states are best equipped

to run GHG air permitting programs. Texas is working to replace a federal implementation plan with its own state program, which will eliminate the need for businesses to seek air permits from EPA. According to experts now it is likely that this will increase efficiency and allow for industry to continue to grow in Texas. EPA has not only finalized 40 GHG permits in Texas, but it has also proposed an additional 10 permits. It is also learnt that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently has over 22 additional GHG permit applications under review and permit development in Texas. J U N E 2014

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

EPA grants permission to ExxonMobil Olefins Plant S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued a final notice of decision for the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) for greenhouse gas (GHG) construction permit for the ExxonMobil Olefins Plant in Baytown, Texas. The company proposes to construct a new ethylene production unit consisting of eight ethylene cracking furnaces and recovery equipment to produce polymer-grade ethylene.

“ We a r e w o r k i n g t o c o n t r o l greenhouse gas emissions and promote clean energy in the new projects coming to communities across Texas,” said EPA Regional Administrator Ron Curry. “These projects show that economic development and environmental protection can go hand-in-hand.” On Nov. 25, 2013, EPA issued a final

permit to the facility. The permit was appealed to EPA’s Environmental Appeals Board, which denied review of the petition on May 14, 2014. On May 14, EPA finalized the permit allowing ExxonMobil to begin construction of the project. The project is part of a multibilliondollar expansion project in Baytown. It’s estimated to create 10,000 construction jobs and 350 permanent jobs. “ExxonMobil’s petrochemical expansion, enabled by growing supplies of shale energy, will create thousands of new jobs and boost the Houston area economy and tax revenues by nearly a billion dollars a year. This export-oriented project is a powerful example of how shale energy can revitalize the U.S. economy in an environmentally responsible manner,” said Stephen D. Pryor, president,

ExxonMobil Chemical Company. In June 2010, EPA finalized national GHG regulations, which specify that beginning on January 2, 2011, projects that increase GHG emissions substantially will require an air permit. EPA believes states are best equipped to run GHG air permitting programs. Texas is working with EPA to replace a federal implementation plan with its own state program, which will eliminate the need for businesses to seek air permits from EPA. This action will increase efficiency and allow for industry to continue to grow in Texas. EPA has finalized 37 GHG permits in Texas, proposed an additional 10 permits, and currently has over 21 additional GHG permit applications under review and permit development in Texas.

Turkmenistan secures loan of US$2.5 bln from japan and South Korea urkmenistan President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has signed a resolution related to financing of the proposed gaschemical complex for manufacture of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) in Kyyanli village in the Balkan province.

The document allows the state bank of foreign economic relations of Turkmenistan (recipient), on behalf of the Government, to conclude an appropriate credit agreement for

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10 years with the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC) and participating financial organizations (lenders). The document also authorizes the recipient bank to conclude an appropriate agreement of loan for 10 years with the Korean export and import bank and participating financial organizations, as well as sign necessary documents related to these agreements and conduct necessary work connected with their

commencement and management of the gas-chemical complex.The plants, with capacity to produce 400,000 tpa of ethylene, 81,000 tpa of PP and 386,000 tpa of polyethylene. All these plants will be constructed with the help of the Turkmen State Concern for Oil and Gas ‘Turkmengaz’, and a consortium of Japanese and South Korean firms. This includes majors of the likes of Toyo Engineering, LG Engineering and Hyundai Engineering.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

South Korean petrochem makers struggle to cut losses omestic South Korean petrochemical companies are struggling to cut their losses by shutting down manufacturing facilities amid the global supply glut. According to reports most of them are forced to shut their units. Hyundai Cosmo, a subsidiary of Hyundai Oil Bank, is mulling over stopping the production of 800,000 tons of paraxylene (PX) from next month.

Th e company said in the release “The operation of the second plant, which produces 800,000 tons of PX, is scheduled to be stopped for regular repair and maintenance and energy efficiency enhancement. However, industry insiders say that the shutdown is due to the recent drop in PX price. The price fell from US$1411 to US$1215 per ton between December last year and March 2014. Under the circumstances, S-Oil, GS Caltex, and

Lotte Chemical have reduced their capacity ratios. The problem is several new PX production plant start ups - SK Incheon Petrochem and SK Chemicals, both of which are subsidiaries of SK Innovation, will run new facilities from late June with annual capacities of 1.3 million tons and one million tons, respectively. Samsung Total will add one million tons to its annual production volume from the second half of this year, too. The combined quantity is equivalent to more than half of the domestic PX production volume as of March. A series of bisphenol A (BPA) production plants are being closed due to a supply glut as well. BPA is a type of engineering plastic for use in automobiles, mobile phones, and electronics appliances. LG Chem,

which had stopped its BPA production lines in Daesan, in February this year, was planning to reopen the plant this month, but has postponed the plan due to adverse market conditions. “Korean petrochemical corporations expanded their facilities to provide against rising demand in emerging markets such as China, but it has turned out that the demand increase falls short of their previous expectations,” an industry watcher explained, continuing, “The slimming down is likely to continue for a while unless demand recovers.”

China faces divergent supply status for import and domestic PE n China, players report that import PE supplies from overseas companies are relatively limited when compared to May owing to reduced quotas from Middle Eastern sources for June.

Chinese investors to fund 4 petrochemical projects in Iran hinese investors are likely to fund 4 petrochemical projects in Iran. According to reports all the four petrochemical projects, areto be in southwest of Iran.

Chinese companies would be investing €470 million in the construction of Lordegan Petrochemical Complex, the report said quoting Iran’s Mehr news agency. Chinese investors have also pledged to finance Bushehr,

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Hengam and Gachsaran petrochemical complexes. The process of extending credit to Iranian petrochemical projects by the Chinese firms went ahead after the November 24, 2013, interim agreement signed between Iran and the 5+1 group consisting of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany.

The situation is in contrasts with comfortable domestic availability in the country despite several ongoing turnarounds. Now, smaller import allocations may keep the market steady moving into June, whereas the expected restarts at some of the local producers may exert further downwards pressure on the local market, players opine.

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

China Petrochemical forms JVs to target TPPI Shuts shale gas reserves in China petrochemical hina Petrochemical Corp has formed two joint ventures with drilling technology firms - Switzerland's Weatherford International and FTS International of the United States, in the past month. The Oil and gas giant hopes that this alliance could pave the way for technology transfers that would help unlock the mainland's vast untapped shale gas resources as reported in South China Morning Post.

Analysts said China Petrochemical's drilling services ventures would also boost the image of Sinopec Oilfield Service, a unit of subsidiary China Petroleum & Chemical Corp (Sinopec), which it hopes to spin off for a listing. FTSI said last week it had agreed to form a 15-year joint venture with China Petrochemical that would see the mainland benefit from FTSI's expertise in fracturing underground rock formations to release hardto-extract oil and gas. FTSI chief executive Greg Lanham said the joint

venture would initially invest US$5570 mln on facilities to serve Sinopec's shale gas projects in Sichuan province. Other gas drillers on the mainland could also become customers of the venture later. The venture will be 55% owned by China Petrochemical and 45% by FTSI. Equipment manufacturing would initially be conducted entirely in the US, but some work might migrate to China over a three to four-year horizon to reap potential savings. The venture planned to provide fracturing services for two to six wells a month for Sinopec at first, and its initial annual work volume was projected at US$50 mln. News of the FTSI venture came three weeks after Weatherford said it had agreed to form a joint venture with Sinopec Oilfield to provide products and services to tap the mainland's shale gas resources, estimated by the US Energy Information Administration to be the world's largest.

Fire damages petrochemical plant in Thailand fire has damaged a petrochemical plant in eastern Thailand, sending smoke billowing for miles and forcing nearby residents to flee their homes. No injuries have been reported in the fire that took place in Rayong province at a facility

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belonging to IRPC Public Co. Ltd. The fire, that was started by a gas leak which may have resulted from pipes that overheated or cracked from expansion was put under control within 20 minutes.

plant in Tuba T Trans Pacific Petrochemical Indotama has stopped production at its Tuban plant in East Java after an agreement with Indonesiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state oil company ended. According to report in Bloomber, TPPI can process 100,000 bpd a day at its Tuban unit in East Java, which turns condensate into products including naphtha. The plant can produce 500,000 tpa paraxylene, 120,000 tpa orthoxylene and 200,000 tpa benzene. The subsidiary of Tuban Petrochemical Industries is negotiating with PT Pertamina, overseas suppliers and the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s upstream oil and gas regulator for condensate feedstock to restart the plant in July or August. TPPI is looking to buy at least 1 million barrels a month of condensate to restart the plant. The company is exploring options to start operating independently, by looking for financing and feedstock suppliers as well as to sell output.

TPPI restarted the plant in November after a nearly two-year suspension under the deal with Pertamina that ended May 21. TPPI bought all of its condensate from Pertamina in exchange for selling its output to the stateowned company.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Saudi Aramco to invest over US$100 bln in downstream investments audi Aramco is to invest over US$100 bln in downstream investments. According to Reuters., Saudi Aramco announced that its downstream investments would exceed US$100 billion over the next decade, as global demand for oil rises by a quarter in the next 25 years.

"Globally, these investments will exceed $100 billion over the next decade alone and that is premised on our belief in the long term sustainability of oil demand," Khalid al-Falih, the company's chief executive said, "As a result of both global demographic growth and rising standards of living in the developing world we see global demand for oil growing by a quarter over the next 25 years. Aramco's refining capacity

would be between 8 million to 10 million barrels a day (bpd) in the coming years, a figure exceeding the goal cited by Aramco in 2012 of 8 million bpd. The increased demands will primarily com from high demand growth markets of the Far East and from the Middle East. Aramco is also looking to grow within the petrochemicals sector with two major projects. Aramco has a joint venture with Dow Chemical Co to build the $20 billion Sadara petrochemical complex in Jubail that is due to come on stream in H2-2015 is also expanding its petrochemical complex called PetroRabigh that it jointly owns with Sumitomo Chemical. This will take total chemicals participate production capacity to over 15 mln tpa.

SOCAR Turkey signs US$3.29 bln financing deal for Star refinery zeri state oil company SOCAR has signed a US$3.29 bln financing deal with 23 banks and export credit agencies for the construction of a refinery on Turkey's Aegean coast. According to Reuters around US$2.7 bln of the financing has a maturity of 18 years, while US$600 mln has a maturity of 15 years.

SOCAR will use $2 bln of its own equity for the project but has tapped the markets for funding for the rest. SOCAR is building the US$5.5 bln Star refinery to supply feedstock to

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petrochemicals maker Petkim, which will help cut Turkey's dependence on imported refined oil products. To be built with annual capacity of 10 mln tons, comprising of 1.6 mln tons of naphtha which couldto feed the Petkim plant, as well as diesel, jet fuel and LPG. It signed a US$3.46 bln engineering procurement and construction contract in May last year with a consortium comprising Tecnicas Reunidas, Saipem, GS Engineering & Construction and Itochu Corp.

SIPCHEM and Sahara Petrochemicals Co. merger on hold audi International Petrochemical Co. (SIPCHEM) and Sahara Petrochemicals Company has put on hold a planned merger that would have created a Saudi Arabian chemicals company with about US$5.7 bln in market value. Speaking to the media the companies said it would be difficult to proceed with the merger using a structure acceptable to both sides under the current regulatory framework.

However, the comapnies have clarified that though the talks of merger are on hold it does not neceessarily mean that it is scrapped. There are chances that the two may revive talks in the future. Sipchem and Sahara in December proposed a shareswap merger and expected to sign a deal earlier in the first half. HSBC Saudi Arabia Ltd., Zeyad S. Khoshaim Law Firm, Allen & Overy LLP, Jacobs Consultancy and Nexant were advising Sipchem. Sahara appointed Morgan Stanley Saudi Arabia, Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm, Clifford Chance LLP and IHS Inc.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Sabic and SK Global Chemical sign JV for metallocene PE ABIC and Korean petrochemical company SK Global Chemical have signed a 50:50 joint venture agreement that will see the partners invest a total of US$595 mln in metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene production assets employing SK's Nexlene process technology.

The joint venture, which is located in Singapore, is expected to operate a series of manufacturing plants, the first of which was recently completed by SK Global Chemical at its complex in Ulsan, South Korea, with an expected annual capacity of 230,000 tons. The plants will produce metallocene linear low density polyethylene, polyolefin plastomers and polyolefin elastomers that will meet the growing needs of diverse industries such as advanced packaging, automotive, healthcare, footwear and electrical & lighting. A second plant is planned for Saudi Arabia. Over time, production bases will be established worldwide. After the signing ceremony, Al-Mady said, “We are happy to establish this partnership with SK Global Chemical and bring the best in advanced material science closer to our expanding customer base in Asia. The joint venture is a clear demonstration of our commitment to continually deliver efficient, technologybased solutions to our customers and further improve the way we face major growth markets.” Cha Hwa Youp, SK Global Chemicals CEO, said, “Nexlene will serve as a growth engine for both of our companies.

upgrade Nexlene Technology and set up production bases at locations that exhibit competiveness in the high-end polyethylene industry.” Mosaed Al-Ohali, SABIC Executive Vice President, Polymers Strategic Business Unit, said that the new venture will allow both partners to enter the highly specialized highperformance polyethylene market, providing premium and high value polymer products to customers around the world. “Our new partnership with SK Global will complement our comprehensive polymers portfolio with an innovative new product line, enabling us to

offer cost effective, efficient and customer-focused solutions in Asia and beyond,” he said. The joint venture marks the second instance in which SABIC is investing in manufacturing capability in the Far East after its successful partnership with the China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec). SK Global Chemical is a pioneering petrochemical company in Korea, being the first in the country to build a naphtha cracking facility in 1972. Through continuous facility investment, R&D and technological improvement, the company has maintained its position as the lszeader of the petrochemical industry in Korea.

CNOOC & LG JV gives South China its first ABS plant espite being a major hub of plastics processing, South China has witnessed commencement of its first ABS plant only this year. According to reports CNOOC & LG Chem Petrochemicals Co. Ltd., a 50:50 joint venture between China’s state-owned CNOOC and Seoulbased LG Chem, has commenced production on its 150,000 ton phase one project in the spring of 2014.

The total investment outlay has been pegged at about US$$400 mln. The plant is located in the Daya Bay Petrochemical Industrial District in Huizhou, Guangdong province, neighboring CSPS (a JV

between CNOOC and Shell) and the Huizhou Refinery and Ethylene project. The company is “actively preparing for” the second phase, which has been approved by the provincial government and double the plant’s capacity to 300,000 tons upon completion. Given the oversaturation of China’s standard ABS market, this plant is focused on specialty grades and high-end standard grades, serving processors in South and East China. The company said it is supplying materials to appliances giants as well as makers of consumer products and toys.

The joint venture will continue to

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BUSINESS NEWS

BASF Linde to come together for on-purpose butadiene technology inde Group and BASF intend to cooperate in developing and production of linear butenes and butadiene. Currently the industry relies on butadiene as a co-product from naphtha cracking to ethylene.

Accoring to reports, BASF has developed process technology and catalysts as well as the extraction technologies, while Linde is providing its expertise for the integration, optimization and commercialization of the process. “We focus on elaborating a solution that provides an efficient process characterized by optimal integration of the whole process chain,” said Dr. Ernst Haidegger, head of product line petrochemical

plants in Linde’s engineering division. “This new technology is a welcome addition to our existing portfolio of petrochemicaltechnologies.” The new process will deliver an on purpose route from butane to butadiene via butenes. Currently, the industry relies mainly on butadiene as a co-product from napht,ha cracking to ethylene. The shift to lighter cracker feedstock results in reduced volumes of coproducts. Therefore the on purpose production of higher olefins is gaining more and more importance. “The new BASF technology is currently being developed by mini plant and pilot plant operation in Ludwigshafen”, said Dr.

Heinrich Josef Blankertz, senior vice president of global technology within BASF’spetrochemicals division. “We are optimistic that we can offer a new best in class technology for the manufacturing of on purpose butadiene to help producers meet the increasing global demand.”

Washington Penn acquires specialty compounded PP business from ExxonMobil o l y p r o p y l e n e compounding leader Washington Penn Plastic Co. has expanded with the acquisition of the North American specialty compounded PP products business of ExxonMobil Chemical Co.The deal follows ExxonMobil’s decision to stop producing those products in North America.

SK Global Chem and SABIC to build Nexlene HDPE plant outh Korea's SK Global Chemical Co. and SABIC have signed an agreement to set up a 50:50 joint venture to produce and sell its high-end polyethylene brand Nexlene.

The two plan to establish the 50-50 joint venture in Singapore within this year that will build a Nexlene plant in Saudi Arabia at an investment outlay of US$595 mln. SK Global Chemical has a Nexlene plant with an annual production capacity of 230,000 tons in Ulsan, 414 kilometers southeast of Seoul, which was completed early this year and started production P L A S T I C S N E W S

in May.The agreement is subject to regulatory approval. The plants will produce metallocene linear low density polyethylene, polyolefin plastomers and polyolefin elastomers for packaging, automotive, healthcare, footwear and electrical and lighting. The first project to be operated by the JV is SK Global Chemical's 230,000 m tpa PE plant that was recently completed and started up at its petrochemical complex in Ulsan, South Korea. A second project is planned for Saudi Arabia.

ExxonMobil customers impacted by the move now will transition to Washington Penn. The firm had made those PP compounds at a plant in Baton Rouge, La. That plant had been operated for ExxonMobil by Chemtrusion Inc., a toll compounding firm based in Houston. Production there will stop by the end of 2014.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Gazprom Neft, SIBUR and Titan Group to acquire a 50% stake in Polio ibgazpolimer, a joint venture of SIBUR and Gazprom Neft (a 50:50 JV), has inked an agreement to acquire a 50% stake in Poliom from Titan Group. Under the agreement, Gazprom Neft is to supply Poliom with raw materials (propane-propylene fraction from Omsk Refinery), whereas SIBUR is likely to sell Poliom's products through its distribution network.

This partnership will help enhance the efficiency across the entire production chain, right from feedstock delivery to sales. Moreover, Poliom's Board of Directors is to consist of an equal number of representatives of Titan Group and Sibgazpolimer, with

the plant's operations handled by CEO. Currently, this position is held by Oleg Moloshtanov. the combined “The acquisition of Poliom's stake by Gazprom Neft will provide the plant with smooth feedstock supplies to manufacture high-quality petrochemicals, improve our refining efficiency and add value across all production stages,” said Anatoly Cherner, deputy CEO for logistics, processing and sales at Gazprom Neft. “We are convinced that SIBUR's competencies in polypropylene production and solid understanding of the Russian polymer market will contribute to enhancing

Poliom's operational excellence and performance,” Dmitry Konov, SIBUR’s CEO, said. “Cutting-edge production facilities with a high level of environmental protection, advanced technologies, and highly qualified personnel enabled Omsk Polypropylene Plant to become a market leader within the very first year of operations. I believe that the majors' engagement in the project will help increase investor appeal of the Omsk Region and boost SME development, marking the growing point of various industrial sectors in Russia,” said Mikhail Sutyaginsky, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Titan Group.

A Schulman Inc. to acquire most of Ferro Corp Specialty Plastics . Schulman Inc. is acquiring most of Ferro's Specialty Plastics business for US$91 mln in cash. The deal with Schulman includes four U.S. plants and a plant in Spain- in Stryker, Ohio; Evansville and Plymouth, Indiana.; Carpentersville, Illinois and Castellon, Spain. All these plants make custom engineered plastic compounds, colorants and liquid coatings.

The deal is scheduled to close in the third quarter (Q3) of this year in 2014. with A Schulman Inc. acquiring this, the company, Ferro expects to

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generate cash proceeds, net of cash taxes and fees, of about US$87 mln from the sale, which it plans to use to reduce debt. Businesses included in the sale had sales of US$154 mln in 2013. The Specialty Plastics business includes Ferro’s Advanced Polymer Alloys unit, which produces melt-processible elastomers for extrusion and injection molding, and thermoplastic elastomers for general purpose and over molding. However this acquisition is restricted to speciality Plastics only and does not include Ferro's polymer additive

business. It is also learnt that Ferro is looking for a buyer for its ploymer additive as well . The deal does not include plants operated by Mayfield Heights, Ohio-based Ferro in Edison, N.J., and Carabobo, Venezuela. Ferro said it has retained KeyBanc Capital Markets to help find a buyer for the polymer additives business. Schulman has made nine acquisitions and formed three joint ventures in the last four years. “We continue to execute our aggressive growth strategy, driven by organic growth and acquisitions,” Gingo said.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Lubrizol receives approvals for Thai CPVC JV with Sekisui Chemical he Lubrizol Corporation has received all necessary regulatory approvals for its previously announced joint investment in a chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) resin manufacturing facility with Sekisui Chemical Company, Ltd. The joint investment, which was originally announced in February 2013, will be located in Thailand and is expected to be fully operational by late 2014 or early 2015.

broke ground on a new compounding plant in Dahej, India and is expanding its resin and compounding facility in Louisville, KY. Overall expansion efforts are expected to add 170,000 metric tons of CPVC resin and 200,000 metric tons of CPVC compound. CPVC resins manufactured at the Thailand site will be designed to meet the differing and unique requirements of either Lubrizol or Sekisui's resin performance specifications and quality standards.

Lubrizol's involvement in this joint investment is part of the company's multi-phased US$400 mln expansion of its global resin and compounding manufacturing capacity. In addition to the Thailand JV, Lubrizol recently

Both companies will continue to independently market and sell their exclusive CPVC compounds, which are designed to meet the specific performance and market requirements of their respective customers.

HPCL talks to ADNOC and Kuwait Petro industan Petroleum Corp Ltd. is in talks with two West Asian oil majors for partnering in its proposed 500-bln-rupee refinerycum-petrochemicals complex at Vishakhapatna. According to reports, Abu Dhabi National Oil Co and Kuwait Petroleum Corp have both shown interest in the HPCL project, which has not made any progress in the last few years due to poor financials of the refiner and general economic slowdown.

of this (financial) year.” Talks were initiated with the two companies when their officials visited India between November and January. HPCL had held two rounds of discussion with them so far. Kuwait Petroleum has shown interest in investing in refining and petrochemicals projects in India and is reportedly in talks with Indian Oil Corp Ltd to invest in the 15mtpa Paradip refinery, which will be commissioned in the next few months.

“We have had some discussions with ADNOC and Kuwait Petro,” official said. “They are interested, but as of now there is no firm commitment. Things will be clearer in six months or by end

The 15 mtpa refinery and integrated petrochemicals units are part of the government’s proposed Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region in Vizag.

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GAIL to reduce its stake in OPal AIL India Ltd will cut its equity stake in ONGC's mega petrochem project at Dahej - Petro-additions Ltd (OPaL), to 11.6% from 19% as the project faces major cost overrun. GAIL's Rs 996.28 crore equity in revised scheme would fetch it 11.64% stake. ONGC has however decided to keep its stake at 26% and so its equity contribution would rise from Rs 1,668.88 crore 2,225.18 crore.

Gujarat State Petroleum Corp (GSPC), which originally was to hold 5% stake, will now have 3.75% interest at its Rs 320.94 crore equity contribution. The 1.1 mln ton plant was estimated at the time of conception to cost Rs 12,440 crore. But since then the project cost has been revised thrice upwards - to Rs 15,870 crore in end 2008, to Rs 19,535 crore in June 2010 and now to Rs 21,396 crore, The project, in which Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) has 26% stake, was originally to be funded in 70:30 debt-equity However, this was to change to 60:40 debt-equity ratio at the date of commissioning, which is now estimated to be around February 2015. Consequently, promoter's contribution would be Rs 8,558.40 crore while the remaining Rs 12,837 crore would come by way of debt.

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PRODUCT NEWS

DSM introduces New polyamide 6 grades he portfolio of UV-stabilized grades of glass fiber reinforced Akulon® polyamide 6 for exterior automotive parts that require very good surface quality even when unpainted is being extended by Royal DSM. DSM is initially introducing two new Akulon PA6 grades.

By eliminating the need to paint such exterior parts, DSM is making a major contribution to unit cost savings without compromising on quality. The new grades are particularly suitable for complex-shaped parts, such as exterior mirror bases and also for parts made using gas-assist injection molding technology, such as door handles. Painting provides a high quality surface, and also serves to protect the substrate from weathering. However, the painting stage in the production of automotive components is very costly, and has a negative effect on the environment, especially when solvent-borne paints are used. As a result, car makers aim to eliminate paint wherever possible. This trend is supported by DSM, which has made important progress in developing high-strength materials with improved resistance to UV radiation and with high levels of aesthetics. The first, originally developed for exterior mirror bases, is highly glass-filled (50% fiber), and yet it still yields parts with excellent surface quality and UV resistance. Trials in a number of different designs have shown that even in complex designs a very good surface quality is achievable. The second grade,

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intended for door handles, contains 30% glass fiber reinforcement and is particularly suitable for parts produced using gas-assist injection molding technology. DSM developed these new grades on the request of a leading system supplier in India who was looking for a new material for the base of unpainted external mirrors it produces for a Japanese car company. The demands of the application were daunting: high strength and high stiffness (to minimize vibrations), and very good surface finish without the need for being painted that would

last over time. DSM has extensive know-how on the determination of the outdoor durability of glass fiber reinforced polyamide 6. It also has its own plastics compounding operation in Pune, India. Together, these two capabilities enabled the company to carry out development of the new grades locally, working closely with the customer. This extension of the portfolio demonstrates DSM’s strong commitment to innovation in high performance solutions for exterior automotive components.

New type of super strong, recyclable polymer Titan discovered trong, durable materials are hard to recycle — they’re designed to stand up to abuse. But research chemists at an IBM laboratory have discovered by accident, a never-before-seen family of polymers that’s super strong, self-healing, lightweight, and easy to recycle. Scientists have discovered a new class of polymer that can revolutionize manufacturing in the aerospace, semiconductors, automobile and micro-electronics industries. Dr Jeannette Garcia was mixing up a standard recipe for a plastic polymer at an IBM lab when she inadvertently left out an ingredient. When she returned to the beaker later, the liquid mix had turned into

a white plastic so strong, it couldn’t be removed with a grinder. The beaker had to be smashed with a hammer to get the polymer out. IBM says Dr Garcia’s plastic is the first distinctly new type of polymer created in decades — most of the new polymers created in recent years are simply variations on materials synthesized many years ago. The new family, code-named “Titan”, is a type of thermoset polymer, formed under heat to create a 3D network of bonds that’s as rigid as bone. Unlike other types of thermoset polymers, however, IBM’s accidental discovery is recyclable, a huge and unexpected benefit in a class of materials built to be ultra-tough.”

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PRODUCT NEWS

Clariant makes its products available online lariant is making its products available in UL's Materials Search Engine, Prospector® (ULProspector.com), so that it's easier for designers and engineers to find color masterbatches they need to make plastics products that comply with UL standards and those of other organizations. To protect consumers around the world from forseeable risks associated with a product, such as fire and electric shock, manufacturers must comply with accepted local standards for flammability, including IEC 60695-2-11/12/13, known as the Glow-Wire (GW) test, and UL-94 vertical and horizontal flame tests.

The UL94 norm was originally a national standard in the USA and is now globally established for classifying plastic products and how they burn. To make a UL Certified product, developers often start by specifying a

UL Recognized plastic resin. However, to gain manufacturing efficiency, manufacturers often use an uncolored or natural base resin plus a special concentrate or masterbatch to add color to the product. In this case, both the plastic resin and the masterbatch need to be certified by UL. Clariant has a huge portfolio of UL Certified masterbatches marketed under the REMAFIN® and RENOL® trademarks. There are over 120 different products in all, providing a potential solution for approximately 20% of the materials listed on the Prospector Search Engine. In addition to electrical and electronic applications, Clariant masterbatches are suitable for automotive, medical devices, small home appliances, power tools, construction materials like photovoltaic cells, and other consumer goods that are electrified. They can be

manufactured at over 20 plants around the world. Now that the Clariant portfolio is included in the UL Prospector’s Search Engine, masterbatch selection just got even easier. UL Prospector’s search engine is the largest and most widely used informational resource in the Plastics industry. Through a single intuitive interface, this tool enables users to efficiently search and filter a comprehensive database that already includes over 85,000 plastics and thousands of other materials too. Users can look up masterbatches by color and polymer compatibility and access “Yellow Card” information directly from Clariant’s QMQS2 database. These certification documents provide details on flame class, minimum wall thickness, maximum letdown ratio and other critical information.

A plastic film that changes color under stress plastic film that changes color under stress could provide more detailed information in product safety testing and other areas where pressure and strain are measured. A lab at the University of California, Riverside, used a self-assembly method to string together gold nanoparticles embedded in a polymer film. The system takes advantage of the plasmonic shift that results when nanoparticle chains are pulled apart.

“When linked together, the gold nanoparticles originally appear

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blue,” said Yadong Yin, an associate professor of chemistry whose lab led the research. “But they gradually change to red with increasing pressure as the nanoparticles start disassembling. This easily and visually helps us figure out how much pressure has been applied.” The color change persists even after the stress is removed, prompting researchers to dub the material a “colorimetric stress memory sensor.” e Yin team’s film differs from commercially available pressure sensor films, which indicate pressure

by changing the intensity of just one color, the researchers said. It can potentially be used for revealing pressure distribution over even very complex surfaces, such as automobile crash test dummies. “The many electronic stress sensors commercially available are bulky and not suitable for certain applications,” Yin said. “For example, it is difficult to tell the stress distribution over a particular area if the contact surfaces are not flat and uniform. Our sensor films can be painted on the contact surfaces.

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PRODUCT NEWS

Borealis introduces Daplen grades new portfolio of polypropylene compound grades composed of post-consumer recycled (PCR) and virgin content conceived for interior, exterior and under-the-bonnet (UTB) automotive applications has been launched by Borealis. Developed and produced in Europe for Borealis' European partners and customers, the three new Daplen™ grades are valueadded solutions that will enable the automotive industry to fulfill the need for materials with enhanced sustainability whilst ensuring performance on par with virgin materials. Borealis is using its innovation expertise to deliver high-quality, high-end grades which help OEMs and Tier One suppliers achieve two major goals at once. The new Daplen grades are designed to offer improved sustainability whilst continuing to ensure process performance and cost efficiency at a level on par with

virgin materials. In addition, they help meet rising end-user demand for materials and applications with enhanced environmental sustainability. Borealis is among the first leading polypropylene (PP) suppliers to launch a portfolio of PP compound solutions with PCR content for the automotive industry. There are three new innovative compound grades with PCR content: Daplen ME225SY: with 25% PCR content, 20% talc and 55% virgin material, this grade is primarily intended for interior automotive applications such as door and trunk claddings and trims. It offers high-level quality with the appeal of enhanced sustainability. Daplen MD250SY: with 50% PCR content, 20% talc and 30% virgin material, this grade is intended mainly for UTB and exterior applications such as bumper components and exterior

trims. It offers good quality with the appeal of enhanced sustainability.= Daplen MD325SY: with 25% PCR content, 30% talc and 45% virgin, this grade is intended for use in UTB and exterior applications. It offers good quality with the appeal of enhanced sustainability. For the time being, the three new Daplen grades are being produced, launched and marketed solely in Europe. So far the procurement of recycling content grades from leading virgin raw material suppliers for OEMs and Tiers has not been trivial; sustainable sourcing – product at right price, with consistent quality and quantity, with reduced environmental impact and safe to use – has been challenging. With the launch of the PCR Daplen portfolio, Borealis' customers and partners can rely on the availability of ready-made, highend grades of consistent high quality.

Polymer modifier range expanded with new coupling agents S-based Addivant has introduced three new coupling agents to its “Polybond” range with 7200, 3249 and 3349 – to benefit polyolefin processors and wire and cable compounders.

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coupling and is already seeing high levels of adoption in the market. Polybond 3249 and Polybond 3349, when used with magnesium hydroxide or alumina trihydrate halogen-free flame retardants, allow wire and cable compounders to optimise physical properties .

Speaking about the products dam Watson, business development manager for polymer modifiers, said: “These three “Polybond” coupling agents represent the beginning of a planned series of new product launches in our polymer additives business.

This also helps achieving excellent dispersion and melt flow stability. All these agest have a wide applications. Applications include building wire, communications cable, and automotive wire and cable.

In the coming years, our “Polybond” and “Royaltuf” polymer modifiers will continue to see enhancements, designed to offer our global customers the broadest possible portfolio.”

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PRODUCT NEWS

Perstorp’s Capa receives approval inEurope erstorp the world leader in the supply and technological development of e-polycaprolactones (PCL) under the Capa™ brand name has received the nod from Europe . Capa™ thermoplastics are an excellent choice for bioplastic formulations especially since they are now also food contact approved in Europe.

In terms of biopolymers for bioplastics, Capa™ caprolactones is a tried and tested technology imparting precise and advantageous performance properties, which support both renewable and disposable bioplastic product development. Being both biodegradable and at the

same time stable in processing and end use properties means, Capa™ caprolactones can be customized to satisfy the often competing demands of long-life, reusable and disposable bioplastics without any compromise. For bioplastics, it offers real flexibility and the best of both worlds. Capa™ 6500D is now food contact approved in Europe and supports the development of many bioplastic products that end up on our tables. These products include shopping bags, drinking bottles, disposable & reusable cutlery and plates, and food packaging. “Packaging is a huge market segment with an excellent

potential for bioplastics. The increasing demand for packaging made from renewable and biodegradable material goes hand in hand with the products we offer and the solutions that we can provide in this segment”, says Linda Zellner, Project Manager Bioplastics. The many advantages make it suitable for PLA, PHAs and starch blends in both durable applications, to improve mechanical properties, and in disposable or one-time use packaging applications where fast biodegradation is sought. External tests have been performed according to the biodegradation standard EN13432 to certify the compostability.

Wacker introduces VINNAPAS,new dispersible polymer powder ACKER has developed a novel dispersible polymer powder for modifying cementitious and gypsum-based dry-mix mortars. VINNAPAS® 8620 E is based on a terpolymer of vinyl chloride, vinyl acetate and ethylene. According to the company VINNAPAS® 8620 E is ideal for the formulation of high-quality, low-emission tile adhesives.

Not only that but the aplication brings out the most desired results in in the end product. The new dispersible polymer powder ensures a long open time and enhanced flexibility combined with excellent tensile adhesion strength, even after water or freeze/

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thaw conditions. With VINNAPAS® 8620 E in the formulation, it is thus even possible to reliably bond modern large-format or very thin tiles, and porcelain or natural-stone materials. The new VINNAPAS® 8620 E is a dispersible polymer powder based on a novel vinyl chloride-vinyl acetateethylene-terpolymer for modifying modern cementitious and gypsumbased dry-mix mortars, particularly for tile adhesives. It ensures that tile adhesives adhere excellently to a broad range of different surfaces, including difficult ones such as fired tiles with high densities and naturalstone products – even after heat,

water or freeze/thaw conditions. The dispersible polymer powder was specifically developed for the formulation of sophisticated tile adhesives of categories C2E or C2ES1 and C2ES2 as per EN 12004 that feature an extended open time and high flexibility. It thus offers users additional formulation reliability. Alongside exceptional product and processing properties, it also exhibits good environmental compatibility, because the product is free of plasticizing additives and thus makes it possible to formulate low-emission tile adhesives

J U N E 2014

PRODUCT NEWS

IPI Endowment Lecture, Bangalore Reifenhauser Cast Sheet Coating, GmbH has supplied such line successfully in Europe & he sees immense potential in India too. Some key driving factor which Reifenhauser work upon keenly are faster start up, reduce process waste, reduce down time, quick change over & reduce energy consumption. Some major attractions for the participants were REIfill, ReicoFeed, REItruder, REItorque technology which created buzz among the industry. Mr. Anil Neglur shared the figures of Plastic Consumption per head in India which will almost double by 2020 & highlighted that the Indian Industry should be ready to meet this upcoming huge demand. Mr. Anil Neglur also gave specific importance to APET Trays, CPET Trays, High talc filled PP Containers, ABS – PS applications which are to be keenly looked upon by the industry.

ne of the fastest developing center of South India, Bangalore very recently witnessed a noble event organized by Indian Plastic Institute – Bangalore Chapter with the support of Reifenhauser (India) Marketing Limited.

Another important topic of “Trends & Benefits of Central Impression Flexographic Printing” was presented by Mr. Gautam Prabhu speaker from Reifenhauser (India) Marketing Ltd. who represents Comexi, Spain in India for CI Press & Solvent base/less lamination machines.

IPI organized an “Xpro Endowment Lecture” at Century Club, Bangalore on 7th June 2014 as a part of their series of such academic lecture throughout India to educate plastic industry on latest happenings in India & World Level. The event was sponsored & supported by Reifenhauser (India) Marketing Ltd., one of the leading Agency House which represents some of the top European Companies for the solutions of Plastic Processing & Converting Industries.

Mr. Gautam highlighted that in CI Press technology of Comexi the job change over is almost half the time required as compared to other conventional printing technology & at the same time the cost of printing plates, ink consumption, startup waste are some of the boon for a convertor in CI Press technology. The major bottleneck in converting industry is handling heat sensitive substrates like PE & PVC Shrink Films which cannot be printed at higher speed in conventional printing while as per Mr. Gautam same can be printed at the mechanical speed of Comexi CI Press which is 400 meters / minute without any hurdle, depending on the job. Most importantly high quality of print is possible, much easily from the flexo process, and in the current scenario where there are so many options for the consumers to choose from, print quality is now defining how the product stands out amongst others, enticing the customer to reach out and to have it.

Mr. Hariram Thakkar from SCJ Plastics & President of IPI – Bangalore Chapter inaugurated the event & commented that IPI is committed for such events in the benefits of Plastic Industry. The event covered two topics:1. “Latest Trends & Technologies in Rigid Packaging “ & 2. “ Trends & Benefits of Central Impression Flexographic Printing” Mr. Anil Neglur, speaker from Reifenhauser (India) Marketing Ltd. elaborately outlined the upcoming trend & increasing demand of Barrier Concept in Rigid packaging in the Food sector. While emphasizing on sustainability of packaging the highlight of presentation was the concept of ABA structured PET where recycled PET Scrap can be utilized in Middle Layer protected by virgin PET resin skin layer aiming to reduce the cost of packaging drastically.

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While answering to some questions from audience, Mr. Gautam Prabhu gave example of some Comexi Customers in India & in Europe, who converted some key MNC printing jobs to CI Flexo where converter could save substantially saved on printing cost / meter. The easy handling of Printing 55

J U N E 2014

PRODUCT NEWS Plates, Cost of Plates per Sq/Cm, Ink deposition, auto cleaning, auto pressure setting and drag & drop registration setting were noticed sincerely by some key flexible convertors of Bangalore.

entrepreneurs to enter into some key plastic manufacturing projects like EPE Foam / XLPE Foam which goes in insulation & protective packaging, Agricultural Films like Mulch, Green house, Container Liner, Silage Films which are being outsourced from other parts of country for south Indian market. Approximately 80 people participated for this event from various categories like processors from Plastic Industries, Flexible Convertors, Resin Suppliers, executives from R & D Centers like HUL etc. At the outset audience were enthusiastic with the information on the subjects & motivated to be ready for change industry is heading towards.

A small presentation by Mr. Rajnish Sood from Reifenhauser (India) Marketing Ltd. marked on the Company Background & some key investment projects in plastic industry created very good curiosity in audience. Mr. Rajnish indicated the demand supply gap in South India market which leaves immense potential for regional

The event was concluded by Mr. Prabuddha Dasgupta, an IPI dignitary & Ex. HUL – Product Development Head – R & D Centre. He thanked Reifenhauser India for supporting the event & qualitative presentation by Mr. Gautam Prabhu, Mr. Anil Neglur & Mr. Rajnish Sood.

Gearboxes for single-screw extruders he ZPE series for single-screw extruders places Zambello at highest level in the world as to the transmissible torque as referred to weight and dimension of the gearbox.

Examples of application:

Rubber (tyres, seals, profiles) Blow-film (shopper bags and films, foils for farming) Blowing of hollow bodies (bottles, cans, reservoirs) Cast film for thermoforming (foodstuff bowls) Cable coating (electric cables, optical fibre cables) Pipes, hoses and profiles for civil buildings Recycling of plastics Foodstuff packages (pasta, croquettes) Textiles and chemical fibres Chemical products

The series of this range are very complete and go from the smallest gearbox of size 90 (for extruders with 25 to 30 mm screw diameter) up to gearboxes of size 630 (for big extruders with 300 to 400 mm screw diameter). The high level of this range regards designing and manufacturing of toothed gears, which are completely built and tested at the Zambello factory, and also of the components which are supplied by the most important European manufacturers. Due to the politics of the constant extension of the spareparts stock, Zambello is able to ensure best punctuality as regards delivery times.

ZAMINDIA MANISH SANANDIYA / CEO Mobile: +91 9925835500 E-mail: msanandiya@zambelloindia.com C/602, Riddhi Tower, Nr. Lotus School, Jodhpur Gam Road, Jodhpur, Satellite, Ahmedabad –380015 Gujarat. India

The ZPE range offers 3 different series: ZPE1 for high revolutions (reduction ratio from i=2 to i=6.3) ZPE2 for medium revolutions (reduction ratio from i=6.3 to i=28) ZPE3 for medium and low revolutions (reduction ratio from i=6.3 to i=125). P L A S T I C S N E W S

J U N E 2014

TECHNOLOGY

New Super Absorbent Polymer Accepta, to retain soil hydration ater retention solutions have been revolutionized by a UK based company, with an innovative new product, Accepta 4301. Launched by advanced environmental technology company Accepta, the exciting new solution is a super absorbent polymer (SAP) capable of absorbing and retaining the large amounts of water that natural soils and substrates simply cannot maintain.With farming and rural entrepreneurship increasingly on the rise around the world, the new product represents huge value for farmers and land cultivators keen to ensure their soil retains water and nutrients at the most effective rate possible.

Unlike many other soil hydrating products on the market, the intelligent Accepta 4301 technology has the capacity to release water and nutrients with ease which allows plants and crops to absorb these life sustaining resources as they are needed. This responsive leaching process works to actively limit soil and substrate water loss through reducing evaporation and eliminating the release of unused water and nutrients. The final result is a significant improvement in plant growth due to the continuous presence of water and nutrients in the root zone which is readily available for absorption. Soil quality of compact earth will also be enhanced due to the increased aeration that the super absorbent polymer produces. Nigel Richardson, CEO of Accepta said, "Accepta 4301

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is a high performance super absorbent polymer (SAP)-based water retainer scientifically formulated using an innovative cross-linked co-polymer of acrylamide and potassium acetate. Its ability to control the retention and subsequent release of water and nutrients makes it a very exciting development for the agricultural and horticultural sectors." Accepta 4301 is by no means a short term solution and has been proven to increase the water holding capacity of soils for several years. This in turn has the potential to reduce irrigation frequency by up to 50% which signifies vast time and financial savings for any land manager. The product also acts as a filter on the availability of fertiliser which significantly minimises wastage and ensures plants have access to the valuable nutrients for as long as

possible. As well as being hugely beneficial for plant growth, Accepta 4301 is also an eco-friendly cultivation resource which helps protect the environment against prevalent agricultural and cultivation issues such as drought and groundwater pollution. Available in a variety of different particle sizes which affect absorption and release capacities, Accepta 4301 is an ideal water retention solution for all soil conditions and agricultural needs. Whether cultivators are associated with arboriculture, lawn maintenance, hydro seeding, bare root dripping, soil mixing, fertiliser production, floral decoration, plant transport or large scale farming, Accepta 4301 is the ideal soil and substrate companion to keep plants healthy, thriving and nourished. It is currently available in more than 90 countries.

Sabic and NanoTech develop first transparent conductive PC film abic and Cima NanoTech, a Singapore and US-based company, have jointly developed a transparent conductive polycarbonate film that has the potential to revolutionise the materials used in consumer electronics, household goods, automotive, architecture and healthcare.

The collaboration, leveraging both Cima NanoTechâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proprietary SANTE nanoparticle technology and Sabicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lexan film, a polycarbonate material, has resulted in the development of a new series of transparent conductive materials that are lightweight with transparency, conductivity and high flexibility.

J U N E 2014

TECHNOLOGY

Gas-assisted injection molding slashes weight of tubular cooling system olyphenylene sulfide (PPS) resin is being employed in a gas-assisted injection molding process to reduce weight and costs of tubular cooling system parts for automotive engines.

The Fortron material is supplied by Celanese Corporation (Irving, TX) is and molded by IVP Plastics (Washington, IL).PS resin and processing expertise helps to advance gas-assist injection molding. “Celanese has a long relationship in working with IVP Plastics to solve material challenges, especially those found under the hood. Fortron PPS excels in these extreme heat and aggressive operating conditions that are pushing material limits,” says Edward Hallahan, Fortron PPS global

marketing manager for Celanese. Auto designers and engineers are looking for new material solutions that will help them meet fuel economy and emission standards. As engine compartments are becoming smaller and more compact, traditional metal tubing and rubber hoses are no longer an option. “Our unique application of gasassist molding technology can create a one-shot injection-molded, non-linear hollow shape with 90 degree turns and molded fastening points,” says James Mechowski of IVP Plastics. “Glassfilled, low-viscosity Fortron PPS is the ideal solution from a molding and performance perspective.” The IVP Plastics molding process reportedly reduces steps in the manufacturing

process; eliminates traditional welding, brazing and plating processes; provides a more dimensionally accurate component with no chance of rust; and reduces component cost and weight by as much as 50 percent. “Celanese has a long history of working with global OEMs and tier suppliers on powertrain and underhood applications,” says Bob Newill, Celanese application development manager for powertrain systems. “Fortron PPS is a proven, hightemperature, chemical resistant material. In this application, Fortron PPS provides cost savings via lower reject rates, reduction in number of fabrication steps, shorter cycle times and higher process reliability.”

Sabic plans to use cooking-oil and fat waste to produce plastics audi Basic Industries Corp. (SABIC) plans to use cookingoil and fat waste to produce plastics, expanding beyond its traditional naphtha and gas feedstock as European manufacturers seek packaging from renewable sources.

Sabic has developed technology to convert used biological material into supplies for its polymer factories, and is targeting European customers in areas such as packaging for food and medicines, said Mark Vester, a business-unit director at Sabic Europe overseeing low-density and linear lowP L A S T I C S N E W S

density polyethylene operations. The products meet purity standards more reliably than materials made from recycled packaging that carry a risk of containing a plastic that isn’t certified as being safe for use with consumables, Steven de Boer, head of innovation and sustainability, said Sabic is adapting plastic operations acquired in the past 12 years from Royal DSM NV, Huntsman Corp. and General Electric Co. to meet demand from consumer-goods producers looking to bolster their environmental credentials. A line making renewable 58

polyolefins from waste fats will be situated alongside a naphtha-fed unit at Sabic’s plant in Geerlen, Netherlands. “The market is growing at a substantial rate,” said Vester, who worked at DSM’s petrochemical unit prior to its sale to Sabic, and who integrated the Huntsman sites and assets into the Riyadh-based company’s European business. “Europe’s one of the more advanced markets. There’s demand for this solution outside of Europe.”

J U N E 2014

IN THE NEWS

World Cup teams to wear plastic bottles Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plastic s you relax on your couch or in your local bar watching the various World Cup games, be sure to pay close attention to some of the kits (aka uniforms) to see a cool usage of recycled plastic bottles. For instance, the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team will compete in Brazil this year in a "deeply patriotic" new away kit.

The shirt, shorts - and for the first time in a national team kit, the socks - all feature fabric made from recycled plastic bottles (100 percent recycled polyester in the shorts, 96 percent recycled polyester in the shirt and 78 percent in the socks). Each kit is made using an average of 18 recycled plastic bottles. Since 2010, Nike has diverted almost two billion bottles from landfills, enough to cover over 2,800 fullsized soccer pitches. "Incorporating environmental sustainability is a key

part of the design and development process for us," said Martin Lotti, Nike Football Global Creative Director. "Our aim is to create a kit that performs for players and is good to the planet." Other teams to wear the recycled polyester include England, Brazil, Portugal and Korea. "I like the patriotic design and color scheme and I think it will look great on the pitch," said U.S. Men's National Team Captain Clint Dempsey. "Hopefully they will serve us well as we head into a competitive group." Nike says that in addition to keeping players cool, the kit is made with a new dual-knit fabrication that incorporates cotton and recycled polyester for the best in moisture wicking properties, while adding a softer feel and more "flattering shape."

Government plans three new petrochem overnment is considering setting up three new petrochemical investment regions in the coastal areas of Karnataka, Maharashtra and West Bengal. At present there are four such regions Dahej in Gujarat, Paradeep in Odisha, Vishakhapatnam-Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh and Cuddalore-Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu.

A Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR) is usually a delineated area of around 250 sq km for setting up manufacturing facilities for domestic

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additives market forecast to see 14% CAGR from 2014-19 ising demand for high performance plastics in major end-user industries like packaging, automotive, consumer appliances and construction is driving consumption of plastic additives in India, as per TechSci Research. The plastic additives market revenues in India are projected to witness a CAGR of 14% during 2014-19. India's plastic additives market is highly fragmented, and is dominated by 30-35 major players with small and medium-sized players accounting for majority of the market share.

and export led production. As per the PCPIR policy, the Centre has to ensure the availability of external physical infrastructure linkages to these regions including rail, road connectivity to national highways, ports, airports and telecom connectivity also.

Rising purchasing power of Indian consumers is driving the demand for aesthetic and innovative plastic products, particularly in automotive and consumer appliance industries. Western region of the country accounts for the largest share in plastic additives production.

The internal infrastructure of the PCPIR is built and managed by a developer. The external linkages will be provided by the central and the state governments. The users of external as well as internal infrastructure will pay for its use.

Plastic additives are chemicals added to a polymer to improve its physical properties, processing ability or certain other desired properties. These additives can be used to prevent degradation of polymers.

J U N E 2014

IN THE NEWS

Bengal government terminates stake Aromatics plant of sale process in Haldia Petrochemicals ONGC Mangalore he Bengal government has terminated the stake sale process in Haldia Petrochemicals (HPL). According to reports the government has been citing legal issues for cancelling the bid. Also according to reports IOC is unlikely to legally confront the government’s decision even though they expressed disappointment over the development.

It is learnt that Indian Oil had pulled out of the race via a written letter before the elections, saying the company was no longer interested. Since there was no other bidder, scrapping the divestment process was just a mere formality. In its letter written in March to the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation, IOC raised

concerns over the inordinate delay in concluding the deal. IOC’s bid to buy shares at Rs 25.10 per share was opened on October 10, 2013. The PSU in the letter had indicated that the price quoted in the tender “may not be valid” because of the heavy losses suffered by HPL in the interim period. This could indicate that TCG is set to takeover Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd, and its chief Purnendu Chatterjee is likely to become the chairman. According to sources, TCG has also presented a number of conditions to the Bengal government for taking over HPL and the details are being worked out. IOC continues to hold an 8.89% stake in the company.

Malaysia initiates investigation on imports of PET from China he International Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) has initiated a preliminary investigation on imports of polyethylene terephthalate from China, Indonesia and South Korea. MITI said it has received a petition from a domestic producer, requesting imposition of anti-dumping duty on imports of polyethylene terephthalate.

The petitioner alleges that imports of polyethylene terephthalate originating in or exported from China, Indonesia and South Korea are being dumped P L A S T I C S N E W S

into Malaysia at a price much lower than the price in the domestic market of the alleged countries. The petitioner claimed that this was not only causing material injury to the domestic industry in Malaysia but the imports increased in terms of absolute quantity. As a result, the petitioner had suffered material injury, among others such as price undercutting, price depression, price suppression, loss of market share, reduction in domestic

Petrochemicals to commence production NGC Mangalore Petrochemicals Ltd (OMPL), the aromatics complex in Mangalore jointly promoted by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation and Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL), will begin production by the end of June or early July. Capacity will comprise 920,000 tpa of paraxylene and 283,000 tpa of benzene. The project is 99% complete and the company will be able to commission it in 20-30 days, sources told Business Line. Pre-commissioning activities are underway. The feedstock for OMPL will be supplied by the MRPL refinery in Mangalore.

sales, decline in profitability and low return on investment. The International Trade and Industry Ministry has said "In accordance with the Countervailing and Anti-Dumping Duties Act 1993 and its related regulations, a preliminary determination will be made within 120 days from the date of initiation. If the preliminary determination is affirmative, the government may impose a preliminary anti-dumping duty at the rate that is necessary to prevent further injury.” J U N E 2014

IN THE NEWS

European Parliament misinformed about OBP technology uropean Parliament has been alarmingly misinformed about oxo-biodegradable plastic (OBP) technology. In an official statement released to the media it has mentioned about its stand on OBP.

Environmental Products Inc. is the development of economical degradable plastic technologies to mitigate the negative environmental impacts of plastic bags, which have a propensity to pollute due to their chemical stability. Thus, EPI fully supports the principle of the European Parliament’s goal to reduce plastic pollution. However, it is evident that the European Parliament has been alarmingly misinformed about oxo-biodegradable plastic (OBP) technology. Indeed, their decision to phase out OBP represents a disgraceful triumph for a disingenuous propaganda campaign featuring baseless conjecture led by the bioplastics industry over objective scientific evidence, as per a company statement.

littering.” The degradation products of OBPs are completely transformed into a form that is assimilated by naturally occurring microorganisms. Therefore, OBPs are ultimately converted into water and carbon dioxide that re-enter the natural carbon cycle. A substantial body of high-quality, peer-reviewed scientific research has accumulated in support of this incontrovertible fact. Recently, for example, Jakubowicz et al. observed 91% biodegradation in a soil environment within 24 months ( J a k u b o w i c z , Ya r a h m a d i a n d Arthurson).

EPI categorically refutes the key assumption about oxo-biodegradable plastics made by the European Parliament in formulating their directive:

It is entirely untrue that the endproducts of oxo-biodegradable plastics are fragments of secondary microplastics, as fragmentation merely represents the first step in oxo-biodegradation. The literature supporting OBP technology is without controversy and recognized by international standards bodies. Oxobiodegradable plastic additives, such as EPI’s TDPATM, which conform to BS8472 (UK), ASTM D6954 (USA) and AFNOR Accord T51-808 (France), are consequently, products of high integrity.

““Oxo-biodegradable” plastics do not biodegrade in the natural environment, but only fragment into secondary microplastics. It is thus misleading to refer to such materials as “biodegradable”. Fragmentation converts visible littering into invisible

EPI would also like to clarify the European Parliament’s description of oxo-biodegradable plastic additives as “typically [being] metal salts”. The term “metal salt” is applied in a technical context – such that sodium, and that most ubiquitous of household items,

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table salt, should also be described as metal salts. Furthermore, EPI reaffirms that its additives contain neither heavy metals nor any environmentally toxic ingredients. Indeed, OBP is subjected to the same environmental safety standards (EN13432) and eco-toxicity tests used to regulate compostable plastics. Furthermore, OBPs have been used in agricultural mulch film for many years, with no incidence of biotoxicity or reduced soil fertility. Thus, neither oxo-biodegradable additives nor their degradation products cause any toxicity. It is clear that oxo-biodegradable plastic technology is the victim of misrepresentation. While OBP technology should rightly be a key ally in the fight against plastic pollution, it is being ostracized as a “false friend”. Ironically, the only falsehoods are the baseless claims denouncing OBPs advanced by lobbyists with competing commercial interests. Joseph Gho, EPI President and CEO, reiterates that “legislators worldwide should recognize the primacy of scientific evidence over unfounded rhetoric. The solid scientific foundations of OBP technology are incontrovertible and yet, currently completely ignored. It is to the detriment of our environment if oxo-biodegradable technology were overlooked, especially since it offers an affordable and widely applicable strategy to minimize the environmental impact of plastic usage.”

J U N E 2014

IN THE NEWS

Tecknow-Edge 2014 provides common platform for plastics machinery manufacturers lastics Machinery Manufacturers Association of India organised a knowledge sharing seminar for the Plastics Industry “PMMAI Tecknow-Edge 2014”on June 7, 2014 at Hotel Taj Deccan in Hyderabad.

The program was supported by Andhra Plastics Processors Association, and saw a fantastic turnout of over 140 attendees from the Plastics Industry. The list of delegates included stalwarts of the industry, leading plastics processors from Hyderabad and leaders from plastics machinery manufacturing sector from across the country like Ferromatik Milacron , Mamata Group, Kabra Extrusiontechnik Ltd, Rajoo, Windsor, Toshiba, Steer Engineering, Prasad Group, Neoplast. Tecknow-Edge 2014 was organised with the goal of providing a common platform for Plastics machinery manufacturers and processors to interact with each other. The seminar began with a welcome note by PMMAI Chairman – Mr Mahendra N Patel, who also briefed the august gathering about PMMAI activities. Seminar featured five experienced speakers who shed light on new & profitable business trends and issues experienced by the processing industry. The opening lecture was delivered by Dr Pradeep Bakshi, Consultant- Plastics Technology on The Essence of Quality in Plastics. He emphasised that Quality translates to Money & Customer Satisfaction. It offers customer benefits like improved communications, improvement in P L A S T I C S N E W S

products and services, lower costs; while offering supplier benefits that include focus on right areas, better products at lower costs, satisfied customers, customer loyalty and increased profits. Mr. Prashant Suri and Mr. Rajakumar K from Siemens Ltd enlightened the audiences on efficient use of Energy in Manufacturing, emphasising the definitive importance of savings in energy for cutting costs during manufacturing. This was followed by a noteworthy talk on “How can one generate maximum profits from a moulding shop” by Mr. M Amarnath, Regional Manager, Ferromatik Milacron India Pvt. Ltd. Mr. Amarnath provided a useful insight into maximizing molding shop profits keeping in mind the various elements of efficiency like factory & shop floor layout, waste elimination at various stages of production, automation for consistency and selection of appropriate process technology and equipments. He emphasized that areas of possible automation include Mould Changing System, Material Feeding System, Product Removal & Transfer System and Information Management System. Mr Abhay S Upadhye, Director, MIFA Systems Pvt. Ltd. captivated the audience with information on Instrumental Role of Controls in Plastics processing. He provided information about automation and latest control systems which can save time and energy. He stressed on various parameters to explore better control solutions like Safety 62

(always top most priority), user friendliness, versatility, quick Uptime through remote maintenance, preventive maintenance and improving the machine life through artificial Intelligence. Mr J Venugopal, Sr Vice President of Andhra Pradesh Plastics Manufacturers Association elightened the audience on the latest development in the State and updated them on growing opportunities for plastics industry in newly formed state of Telangana. Mr S V Kabra, Vice Chairman – PMMAI made the concluding remarks.

EPA finalises GHG permits to Flint he US EPA has issued a final greenhouse gas (GHG) Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) construction permit to Flint Hills Resources in Corpus Christi, Texas, to modify an existing petroleum refinery in Texas.

Flint Hills will also modify equipment to allow their West refinery facility to increase capacity to process domestic crude oil. The permit became effective immediately upon signature.The EPA has also awarded an ethylene cracker permit to Occidental Chemical Corporation (OxyChem) in Ingleside, Texas.

J U N E 2014

EVENTS

Events and Exhibitions world related with the manufacturing sector. This is a five day event that helps the country to witness great revolution in the industrial fields. This exihibition is also an ideal platform for the development of the economy of the country by attracting the attention of many multinational companies. The event has already garnered great reputation in the international market with its highly successful previous editions. The decision makers, experts, professionals and key leaders of the sector will be present at the 11th edition of the show. This international machine tools exhibition taps the various skills and human resources available in India, and helps it to emerge as one of the fastest growing global manufacturing powerhouse of the world.

Argenplas Date: 16-19 Jun 2014 Venue: Buenos Aires, Argentina Argenplas is a premium exhibition providing the latest and the best in plastic materials for all manufacturing and processing industries alike. It is known to be the leading specialized exhibition of its kind in Argentina.

FIP solution plastique Date: 17-20 Jun 2014 Venue: Lyon, France The event FIP solution plastique is one of the top notch events to be held in the industry related to the Plastics. The event will last for four days. The event will display everything from plastics to solutions. One will able to learn expert strategies for pulling profits from the market .This event provides the overall information of the plastic industry in the broader perspective. Every year thousands of artist visit this expo to enhance their business and to get an idea and knowledge of the leading trends in the plastic industry.

Plastics Fair Date: 26-28 Jun 2014 Venue: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Vietnam Plastics Fair is a premium exhibition providing the latest and the best in plastic materials for all manufacturing and processing industries alike. Vietnam Plastics Fair presents products and services, technologies and innovations, trends and tendencies for the markets of tomorrow. As the previous editions of the show in the region have been very successful.

ROSPLAST Date: 17-19 Jun 2014 Venue: Moscow, Russia

Beijing International Packaging Fair

The ROSPLAST would be a platform for the companies which deal in the field of polymeric gums, ingredients, plastics, foams, composites, rubbers, caoutchoucs and elastoplasts and many other products to show case their latest versions of products. The ROSPLAST will help companies in their business expansion as they will be able to meet the visitors and to convince what features their products have which differ it from others. The visitors will really enjoy the event.

Date: June 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;July 2 Venue: China New International Exhibition Center, Beijing, China The exhibition covers an area of 60,000 sqm. Profiles for exhibit includes Packaging material and products: Paper packaging material and products, plastic packaging material and products, metal packaging material and products, composite packaging material and products, auxiliary packaging material, glass packaging products, wooden material packaging and products. Packaging machinery and equipment: Packaging machinery, packaging printing machinery, packaging material and products production line and packaging test equipment. Packaging technology and others: Resources recycling technology and products, packaging high-tech and products, RFID products, packaging printing technology.

ACMEE - International Machine Tools Exhibition Date: 19-23 Jun 2014 Venue: Chennai, India ACMEE 2014 is an international exhibition that presents the latest technologies available in the various parts of the P L A S T I C S N E W S

J U N E 2014

YUDO Hot Runner.. ....................................................................................................................................... cover Madhu Machines & Systems ...............................................................................................................inside cover Anupam Heaters and Controls .............................................................................................................................3 Polymechplast ......................................................................................................................................................4 Plastlink Technologies.. ........................................................................................................................................6 Ferromatik Milacron. .............................................................................................................................................7 Neejtech India.......................................................................................................................................................8 Satellite Plastic Industries...................................................................................................................................10 Nu-Vu Conair Pvt. Ltd.. .......................................................................................................................................12 Reifenhauser India Ltd. ......................................................................................................................................13 PASL Windtech... ................................................................................................................................................14 Reliance Polymers..............................................................................................................................................15 Allied Solutions... ................................................................................................................................................16 Mold Masters ......................................................................................................................................................18 Millturn India CNC ..............................................................................................................................................37 Plastic Technologies ...........................................................................................................................................38 I Plex 2014..........................................................................................................................................................39 KABRA Extrusion Technik Ltd.. ..........................................................................................................................40 Plastic Park.........................................................................................................................................................41 Dongguan Alfa Automation Machinery ..............................................................................................................42 JingCheng Times Group . ...................................................................................................................................42 Jandi's Industrial Co. Ltd. . .................................................................................................................................43 Hi-More Robot Pvt. Ltd. ....................................................................................................................................43 Carbon India . .....................................................................................................................................................45 Zambello Riduttori Group ...........................................................................................................Inside back cover Rajoo Engineers ................................................................................................................................... Back cover

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