Recent developments
Restructuring in Europe
Under prolonged demand weakness, rising costs, and stricter regulation, ARLANXEO initiated consultation to cease operations at its Port Jerome site in France, pending DREETS approval. The company cited structurally loss-making performance despite prior improvement efforts, indicating continued rationalization pressure in European synthetic rubber capacities.
Certified low-carbon rubbers
Sustainability certifications expanded. ARLANXEO’s Dormagen facility earned ISCC PLUS certification for its Baypren CR plant and introduced Baypren 616 with nitrosamine-avoidance claims. Continental adopted Vulkanox HS Scopeblue, an ISCC PLUS mass-balance antioxidant from LANXESS. UBE certified U-BE-INFINITY polybutadiene (UBEPOL BR and VCR) under ISCC PLUS for drop-in use across tires and industrial rubber.
Circularity and recycling
Plastic Energy commercialized TACFILLER, a sustainable alternative to carbon black, claiming 89% lower emissions and REACH registration via its TAC process. Elkem validated a mechanical recycling process for crosslinked HCR, achieving >50% reintegration with preserved properties and expanding silicone recycling routes alongside chemical options.
Processing and supply
At K 2025, Arkema introduced Luperox NeatCure organic peroxide granules for faster, safer elastomer crosslinking in continuous curing with dust-free handling under tightening regulations. Distribution reach broadened as Momentive expanded its European network through a partnership with Safic‑Alcan to supply LSR, HCR, and ready‑to‑use compounds across France and Eastern Europe.