Recent developments
Capacity and supply
China advanced elastomer self‑sufficiency as Tianjin Petrochemical’s 100,000 t/yr solution‑method POE unit began trials, underpinning a 250 kt/yr POE slate. ARLANXEO became exclusive marketer of PRC EPDM under Keltan KSA. Feedstock flexibility improved with Vega Ploieşti starting 60%‑purity hexane relevant to rubber adhesives. Amid energy disruptions, WACKER moved to raise silicone prices.
R&D hubs in Asia
Evonik opened the Asia PAthletic Center for PA12/PEBA applications and doubled long‑chain polyamide capacity via a PA12 polymerization reactor in Shanghai. ARLANXEO inaugurated the Innovation Center Asia beside EPDM/HNBR lines in Changzhou. Arkema added regional transparency capacity with a Rilsan Clear unit in Singapore.
Sports and consumer elastomers
BASF introduced Elastollan GripTec TPU outsoles targeting traction and manufacturing efficiency. Arkema highlighted Pebax thermoplastic elastomers, while Evonik promoted VESTAMID PEBA for premium footwear. Sinopec showcased broad polymer and rubber solutions at the China International Plastics & Rubber Industry Exhibition.
Healthcare and beauty elastomers
Mitsubishi Chemical’s ZELAS TPS was adopted for closed‑loop cell‑culture tubing. Evonik secured China registrations for VESTAKEEP i4 3DF spinal implants. WACKER expanded GMP‑certified silicone emulsions in India for personal care. Elkem launched PURESIL ORG 0415 and ORG 0515 using a biobased carrier.
Corporate and finance
Bob Waitt became CCO at Momentive. SABIC appointed Dr. Faisal Mohammed Alfaqeer as CEO. Trinseo’s distress deepened after it missed $22m in March interest, risking specialty recycling assets. Mitsui Chemicals obtained ISCC PLUS for ACTCOL PPG and POP via mass balance for elastomer value chains.