Recent developments
Portfolio realignment
An all-stock merger between AkzoNobel and Axalta creates a $25bn coatings player targeting ~$600m synergies. Covestro and XRG secured final regulatory approval, aligning capital for circular and digital initiatives while retaining autonomy. Stahl carved out its wet-end leather unit as Muno, and Aramco’s US agreements include an MoU with Syensqo on localized carbon fiber and advanced composites.
Low‑carbon technologies
Clariant’s HySat catalyst eliminates Cr VI in hydrogenations. Its EDHOX Technology targets lower‑temperature ethane‑to‑ethylene with reduced Scope 1 emissions. China’s Green Technology Innovation Cases highlighted bio‑aviation fuels, cyclohexanone routes, ethylene‑valorization catalysts, and dual‑membrane desalination. A PHA dispersion technology advanced for compostable paper barriers, and BASF expanded APG production in Thailand for bio‑based surfactants.
Advanced materials
Brenntag will distribute Calyxia microencapsulation technology for CASE and composites, including Catalyx H and Calyshield L. DuPont began building a MOLYKOTE specialty lubricants plant in Zhangjiagang to improve regional supply. UPM’s OptiCut RL54 linerless material achieved two million cuts in GeBE printers, lowering maintenance. PPG maintained an AAA MSCI sustainability rating.
Policy and trade
The EU introduced safeguard measures on ferroalloy imports with TRQs through 2028, potentially affecting Elkem’s FeSi sales; silicon metal is excluded.