DSM looks at new Louisiana EPDM plant

24 June 1996 00:00  [Source: ICB]

DSM Elastomers BV is studying the feasibility of an ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber plant in Addis, Louisiana, US. Capacity of the unit will be between 30 000-40 000 tonne/year. The intended investment costs for the project are put at above $30m.

If study results are positive, a decision to proceed will be taken in H1 1997.

The plant will start up during 1999. It will use a new low valency catalyst technology developed by DSM called Lovacat (ECN 24 June p20). This will be used in combination with DSM's solution process for polyolefins.

The plant will focus on high performance EPM copolymer production for the polymer modification, engine oil additives and wire and cable markets.

DSM also intends to manufacture EDPM terpolymers for higher performance elastomers for automotive and construction applications.

DSM Elastomers has a total global EPDM capacity of 200 000 tonne/year produced in the Netherlands, Japan, through a joint venture with Idemitsu, the US and Brazil.

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