- The plant increases superabsorbent capacity to 47,000 tons/year.
- Construction was announced in spring 2011 and production began in summer.
- Superabsorbents are made from acrylic acid for products like diapers.
- Sumitomo Seika has marketed AQUAKEEPTM from Carling since 2008.
Inauguration Details
Yusuke Ueda, CEO of Sumitomo Seika, and Marc Schuller, Arkema Executive Vice President, inaugurated a new superabsorbent plant at the Carling site in Moselle, France. The event was attended by local and regional authorities.
Investment and Capacity
The investment, announced in spring 2011, was made in partnership with Arkema. It increases the Carling facility's superabsorbent production capacity to 47,000 tons per year, addressing rising demand in Europe.
Technological Advancements
The plant incorporates Sumitomo Seika's latest technological advances in superabsorbent production. Operations began in the summer, and the facility is now fully operational.
Market Applications
Superabsorbents, derived from acrylic acid, are used in high-growth markets such as baby diapers, adult incontinence products, and female sanitary items. The new plant strengthens Arkema's position as a leading production site for acrylic monomers.
Background
Since acquiring Arkema's superabsorbent business in 2008, Sumitomo Seika has marketed a range of superabsorbents under the tradename AQUAKEEPTM from the Carling site.
