Construction Chemicals

Recent developments

Cement decarbonization

Holcim’s CaptureLab carbon capture test platform began multi‑pathway trials; the first is Air Liquide’s Cryocap FG pilot for cement CO2 capture at Martres‑Tolosane. In Japan, Sumitomo Corporation will transfer 70% of S.C. Cement to Sumitomo Osaka Cement to align with structural shifts and sustainability demands, combining technology with nationwide distribution and ready‑mix capacity.

Building solutions and MDI

Portfolio moves continued as Holcim’s acquisition of Xella adds AAC modular systems and digitalized prefabrication. On polyurethanes, Covestro outlined a strategic MDI expansion, including a new 660 kt MDI production train in Shanghai and a UAE feasibility study targeting net‑zero Scope 1 and 2 operations to support insulation and broader construction demand.

Coatings and regulations

Consolidation progressed as AkzoNobel moved to file SEC F‑4 for the Axalta merger and declined a cash proposal from competitors; PPG appointed John Smith VP, Architectural Coatings EMEA. Regulatory‑driven fire protection advanced with Clariant’s Exolit AP 422 A — SVHC‑free ammonium polyphosphate for intumescent coatings and firestops, while it expands Daya Bay capacity and extends the Exolit OP range.

Materials and digital operations

Feedstocks shifted as Nobian opened a fully electrified MVR salt plant in Mariager for high‑purity supply. Upstream metals saw ArcelorMittal and AWS collaborate to industrialise AI and supply lower‑carbon steel, and LKAB gained a permit for a Luleå critical‑minerals industrial park. Sustainability ratings featured Synthos’s EcoVadis Gold rating.

Infrastructure and bitumen

Road‑linked materials advanced as SONATRACH subsidiaries and SONIDEP signed MoUs including a bitumen joint venture, while Rompetrol Rafinare reported higher bitumen output post‑turnarounds. Project delivery capacity expanded as Bilfinger was awarded Phase 2 turnkey expansion at the Gübretaş Söğüt Gold Mine, covering civil, structural, and M&E scopes over 24 months.