Recent developments
R&D and low-VOC
Specialty innovation advanced, as Nouryon started a customer experience and innovation center in Itupeva, Brazil targeting home and personal care. BASF introduced the modern amine catalyst Lupragen N 208 for low-VOC PU foams. AGC obtained the first UL2809 third-party verification for its Fluon PTFE G grade resin, using recycled fluorite to support circularity in fluoropolymers.
Battery materials moves
In batteries, Arkema and Semcorp agreed to collaborate on next‑generation separator technologies. Financing progressed with the EIB’s €250 million to Vulcan Energy's Phase One Lionheart Project in Germany. Execution began as Vulcan broke ground on a geothermal and lithium extraction plant in Landau, integrating heat, power, and lithium hydroxide supply for European e‑mobility.
Portfolio restructurings
Fine chemicals capacity shifted: CABB signed to sell Jayhawk Fine Chemicals to Anupam Rasayan, bolstering the buyer’s US footprint while CABB refocuses on pharma/life-science specialties. Asahi Kasei will discontinue hexamethylene diamine production by April 2027 without affecting downstream PA66. AGC will exit its specialty glass business for chemical strengthening by Q3 2026.
Labeling and bio-based
UPM outlined a joint venture with Sappi for its graphic paper business and confirmed a new biorefinery in Leuna, Germany for bio‑based chemicals and fuels. In adhesives materials, UPM will cease label materials production at its Nancy site, converting it to slitting and distribution to improve cost efficiency.