Arkema expanding bio-based TPE production

Paris –  Arkema SA is to increase its global production capacity for its Pebax polyamide-polyether thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) by 50%, the French group announced 11 July.

The expansion, which is focused particularly on Arkema’s amino 11-based Pebax RNew TPEs, is part of a wider investment programme in bio-based polyamide materials.

Overall, Arkema said it plans to invest €300 million over five years in the bio-sourced nylon 11 chain to increase its global production capacity by 50%.

The expansion plan will see the construction of a “world-scale” plant in an undisclosed location in Asia. This will mainly produce Rilsan PA11 bio-sourced polyamide from castor oil.

The new Asian facility, which will produce both the amino 11 monomer and its polymer, is expected to come on stream in late 2021.

Arkema predicts 7% growth annually for bio-based polyamide that are used in 3D printing, automotive-parts and consumer-goods, among other applications.

“This project represents a milestone in the development of our speciality polyamides over the next few years,” said Thierry Le Hénaff, Arkema chairman and CEO, in the release.