Recent developments
Grid and cabling polymers
Borealis’ Stenungsund XLPE expansion targets MV/HV/EHV cable demand in Europe, adding a new MV unit and upgrading HV/EHV grades with bulk delivery and cleanliness controls, with availability from 2027. In wire and cable, SABIC introduced non-fluorinated SILTEM resin blends as PFAS alternatives for automotive and industrial harnesses. For high-voltage insulation and housings, Toray’s Torelina A660HV PPS UL certification anticipates revised UL1557 requirements.
Semiconductor consumables
To support advanced nodes, Air Liquide’s €130 million Singapore nitrogen units under long-term contracts will supply ultra-high-purity N2 by 2027 with digitalized operations. Solvay expanded Zhenjiang electronic grade hydrogen peroxide expansion to meet single-digit‑ppt purity needs. Upstream in specialty gases, Messer signed a long-term helium SPA with QatarEnergy, improving supply diversification for lithography, cryogenics, and fiber optics.
Battery value chain
Strategic shifts continued in batteries. Toray’s divestment of its Hungarian separator JV to LG Chem refocuses its separator activities in Japan and Korea. Europe saw upstream capacity plans with Eni Storage Systems’ Brindisi LFP project targeting >8 GWh and future recycling, while Turkey’s ASPİLSAN’s LFP investments span drones and Li‑poly R&D. On performance and safety, AkzoNobel and NIO’s battery underbody coating won an industry award for durability and mass reduction, and new halogen-free Exolit OP flame retardants for PBT address e-mobility requirements.
Design and supply tools
Regional service and digitalization progressed. UPM Adhesive Materials’ Northern Vietnam terminal will add slitting and targeted inventory near Hanoi by mid‑2026, supporting durables and electronics labeling with shorter lead times. In virtual design workflows, Covestro’s Imagio integration with Autodesk VRED provides photorealistic polycarbonate material twins and AxF assets, with planned links to simulation for mechanics, rheology, and weathering.
Healthcare-grade polymers
In medical devices, Mitsubishi Chemical’s ZELAS AMP research collaboration with Kyushu and Osaka universities targets an antithrombogenic thermoplastic elastomer for catheters and bypass circuits. The amphiphilic polymer aims to reduce anticoagulant use and eliminate coatings by compounding into PVC and PU, with global launch targeted for 2027.
Catalysts and co-catalysts
In organometallics, Mitsui Chemicals’ acquisition of Nippon Aluminum Alkyls consolidates production and sales of alkyl aluminum for polyolefin catalysts, co‑catalysts for synthetic rubber and high-grade alcohols, and electronic information materials, aligning with VISION 2030 while maintaining earnings guidance.