Italian chemical industry news (page 4)

The plant converts agricultural residues into bioethanol using enzymatic technology. It aims to reduce emissions and boost energy security. Stable policies are needed for further investment and growth.

A 15% capacity increase at Spinetta and Franklin plants supports strong demand in synthetic rubber crosslinking, especially in Asia. Aims for 30% global growth by end of 2014.

Plans to cut €100M/year in European costs by 2016, expand North American trona mining, and close a Portuguese unit. Aims to boost efficiency and address overcapacity, impacting 450 jobs by 2016.

The JV will convert an Adria, Italy facility to produce 40 million pounds of BDO annually from renewable feedstocks, with production starting in 2013. A second plant using biomass sugars is planned.

The expansion in Spinetta Marengo, Italy, will be completed by end of 2012 with a EUR 15 million investment to meet growing demand for PFPE used in industrial lubrication and semiconductor applications.

The plant will produce 10 kilotons/year of bio-based succinic acid, offering a renewable alternative to fossil feedstocks. It will use a yeast-based fermentation process, improving eco-footprint and efficiency.

The new unit in Priolo Gargallo will produce 220 million m3 of hydrogen annually, supplying two refineries for 15 years, reducing sulphur in gasoline and diesel. Investment: €45 million.

Investing EUR 12M, the expansion will double production capacity, making the Cernobbio plant the largest for thermosetting powder coatings, enhancing supply to Eastern Europe and key markets.