DSM raises prices for EPDM-based TPEs

Heerlen, the Netherlands - DSM Thermoplastic Elastomers will raise its prices for the Sarlink, Kelprox and Keltaflex product lines by Euro 150 per tonne and 8 cents per pound USD. The price increase will be effective from 1 Sept. 2006. In a statement, DSM said, "to maintain the

quality, the innovation capability and service level DSM s customers have come to expect and rely on, this price increase has become unavoidable."

Justifying the increase, the company said, "Energy costs have continued to surge to very high levels and as a result the prices of key raw materials for Sarlink have increased substantially. DSM added that it has," has worked hard to optimise global operations including a steady stream of debottlenecking programs in its plants. Despite all these efforts and with the relentless energy related cost increases, DSM now must pass on part of the raw material, energy and transportation cost increases.