Recent developments
Advanced packaging materials
Asahi Kasei introduced a photosensitive polyimide (PSPI) film for panel‑level packaging that supports fine wiring and copper‑pillar formation for AI‑class devices. BASF patented a hot‑gas welding process for PPA components, yielding stronger seams at lower gas temperatures for e‑mobility and fuel‑cell plastics. Evonik opened a PEEK rectangular magnet‑wire lab in China to optimize high‑temperature, high‑voltage insulation for NEV motors.
Compliance and insulation
BASF Ultramid and Ultradur engineering‑plastic grades obtained EN 45545 classifications for E&E railway parts using halogen‑free flame retardants. Mitsui Chemicals’ mass‑balance biomass plastics were adopted by Toshiba molded transformers, meeting Japan’s latest Top Runner efficiency rules with petroleum‑equivalent performance. First XLPE from Borouge 4 doubles regional output for high‑voltage cable applications and begins performance testing with UAE cable makers.
Battery materials shifts
Trinseo launched VOLTABOND 211 SBR binder to improve anode homogeneity and reduce DCIR for fast‑charging cells. Orbia engaged Worley to deliver a lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) production facility in Louisiana, advancing US electrolyte salt localization. Eni completed an equity investment in Nouveau Monde Graphite to secure natural graphite and active anode material for stationary batteries. CATL and HyperStrong agreed on 60GWh of sodium‑ion batteries for energy storage, with form‑factor compatibility to ease integration.
Critical minerals and metals
LKAB received an environmental permit for LKAB’s planned Industrial Park to recover phosphorus and rare earths from iron‑ore residuals. Worley will advise on St George Mining’s Araxá niobium and rare earths project in Brazil across feasibility and engineering. The Johnson Matthey 2026 PGM Market Report signaled persistent deficits in platinum, ruthenium and iridium amid evolving autocatalyst and hydrogen uses. Aurubis advanced circular copper capacity, with Complex Recycling Hamburg at first melt and Richmond ramp‑up, and raised guidance.
Portfolio and capital
WACKER placed 2.1 million Siltronic shares, cutting its stake to about 24% while remaining the largest shareholder. Mitsubishi Chemical will discontinue production and sales of certain epoxy resin grades at the Tokai Plant and maintain specialty grades for electronics. Elkem completed the sale of the majority of its Silicones division to Bluestar and redeemed Bluestar’s shares, altering governance. Lone Star’s acquisitions enable integration into a single global compounding platform under the TECHNYL brand.
Thermal and structural advances
Dow’s Coolant Care Network coordinates fluid testing, analytics and field mitigation to support direct‑to‑chip data‑center cooling with DOWFROST fluids. Covestro opened a TPU Application Development Center in Guangzhou to accelerate electronics, automotive and specialty film applications across APAC. ULTEM SU3102P is a reactive polyetherimide (PEI) oligomer to increase toughness at high thermoset loadings while maintaining processability for aerospace composites.
Energy transition inputs
Repsol converted a refinery unit at its Puertollano industrial complex to 200,000 t/y renewable diesel with integrated renewable hydrogen from biogas. Shanghai Petrochemical commissioned the first phase of a 30,000‑ton large‑tow carbon fiber project in Ordos, leveraging >60% green power and localized equipment. Linde’s inclusion in the S&P 2026 Sustainability Yearbook highlighted ongoing climate targets and customer abatement contributions.