GPCA Signs Mou With GCC Accreditation Center (GAC) In Historic Industry Milestone
The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the voice of the chemical industry in the Arabian Gulf, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the GCC Accreditation Center (GAC) to collaborate in the area of conformity assessment and accreditation and develop sustainable solutions for the petrochemical and chemical industry in the GCC region that will contribute to establishing a robust quality infrastructure.
The MoU will establish a framework that aims to improve the efficiency of conformity assessment processes in the region and ensure that chemical and petrochemical products and processes meet specified standards and regulations. Additionally, it is aimed at streamlining accreditation procedures, fostering conformity across various certification activities, and establishing a robust quality infrastructure within the GCC region.
Recognizing the critical importance of environmental preservation, the MoU highlights a shared commitment by both GPCA and GAC to combatting plastic waste. The agreement will involve the adoption of an efficient plastic pellets, flakes and powder management scheme to address plastic material leakage and safeguard marine environments and marine wealth regionally and globally, underlying GPCA members’ commitment to the Operation Clean Sweep program and foster a sustainable and circular plastic economy.
Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA, commented: “I welcome this valuable partnership with the Gulf Accreditation Center which marks a significant milestone in the history of the region’s chemical and petrochemical industry, underlying its commitment to accountability, transparency and compliance. Together we will collaborate closely on raising the bar and welcoming a new era in conformity assessment and accreditation across the industry in the region.”
Eng. Moteb Al-Mezani, Director General of GAC, commented “We are thrilled to support the initiatives of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) and contribute with GAC internationally recognized accreditation services to achieve the goals of this Memorandum of Understanding that reflects our joint dedication to fostering excellence and sustainability in the chemical and petrochemical industry within the GCC region. Together, we will pave the way for a future marked by accountability, transparency, and compliance, ensuring that our industry meets the highest standards and contributes to a cleaner, more environmentally responsible world.”
Insert Moulding Machine BOY 35 E VV at the MSV in Brno / Czech Republic
At the 64th MSV International Engineering Fair, the German machine manufacturer and its Czech partner 1.PLASTCOMPANY, spol. s.r.o. will present a BOY 35 E VV in hall G1 / booth 19 and 20. The fair will take place in Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic, from 10th to 13th October 2023.
Key areas of the MSV are the topics Industry 4.0 and Digital Factory, i.e. digitalisation in production, one of the most important trends in the innovation process. Another topic is the circular economy – the handling of material resources, which is a high priority for the sustainable development. BOY attaches great importance to these topics and tries to implement them steadily and sustainably (see photo).
At the trade fair booth, the BOY 35 E VV will overmould torque wrenches. The BOY 35 E VV with vertical clamping and injection unit corresponds to a horizontal machine in its basic concept – only the injection and clamping unit have been arranged vertically by a 90° rotation. On all BOY insert moulding machines the lower clamping platen is fixed, thus preventing the insert parts from slipping during the clamping process. Shot weights up to max. 69.5 g (PS) for high-precision applications, compact dimensions, ample space for peripheral equipment on the machine frame and the possibility to also use smaller injection units make the BOY 35 VV the ideal solution for fully automatic insert moulding.
“Cooperativeness, professionality and technical knowledge are always in the first place for us. We specialise in the supply, assembly and service of mechanical-technical equipment for the plastics processing and its recycling,” underlines 1.PLASTCOMPANY, spol. s r.o., a company with a family tradition and a friendly team that has been working with BOY since 2005.
For further information visit http://www.dr-boy.de/
Molecor (SEA) Sdn Bhd Will Participate in Thai Water from August 30th to September 1st 2023
A new edition of Thai Water Expo will take place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand, from August 30th to September 1st 2023 and Molecor (SEA) Sdn Bhd will be on booth Q61 in Hall 3 with the latest innovations in the world of PVC oriented pressure piping. New diameters for TOM pipes, the ecoFITTOM range of fittings in PVC-O, the geoTOM application to geolocate pipeline networks and much more.
Thai Water Expo is the reference event for the water supply and sanitation management sector in the country. In its previous edition, the fair welcomed more than 10,000 visitors from more than 31 countries, both from the public and private sectors, during the three days it was held.
The fair offers a unique opportunity to learn about the latest developments in the sector and the new technologies that are reinventing water channelling and creating solutions for a more efficient and sustainable world. Molecor’s alignment with these values can be seen in the products presented at the fair.
The company’s continued commitment to oriented PVC has enabled it to develop an exclusive manufacturing process using air instead of water, which reduces the environmental impact of its manufacture and has broken the limits that previously restricted the use of the material. This has led to the production of TOM pipes, the only oriented pipes manufactured in nominal diameters from 90 to 1200 mm and ecoFITTOM, the first fittings produced entirely from oriented PVC to apply the advantages of the material to more parts of the water pipe network.
In addition, geoTOM, an application for digitalizing and geopositioning water piping projects in a simple and intuitive way, will be available for demonstration at the fair. The software developed exclusively by Molecor allows users to quickly obtain all the technical information of each of Molecor’s parts and enter the data of any other part, regardless of the manufacturer and product material, to manage networks efficiently. It also allows users to add comments, photos, manage incidents and much more.
Foreign Minister of Switzerland visits Archroma in Pakistan
Archroma, a global leader in specialty chemicals towards sustainable solutions, was highlighted for its advanced sustainable practices and innovation in Pakistan by the Swiss Embassy. Foreign Minister of Switzerland, Mr. Ignazio Cassis who was on an official state visit to Pakistan visited Archroma Center of Excellence at Karachi on 9 July 2023 along with high-level officials and three Members of Swiss Parliament.
Mr. Ignazio Cassis was greeted by Archroma employees at the Archroma Center of Excellence. He inaugurated the company’s “Wall of Pride”, an impressive collection of recognitions, accolades and honors earned by Archroma in Pakistan since the company’s inception in October 2013.
Foreign Minister of Switzerland H.E. Mr. Ignazio Cassis felicitating Mr. Mujtaba Rahim at the inauguration of “Archroma Wall of Pride”.
Mr. Cassis visited the Research & Technology (R&T), Application, Analytical Laboratories & Training Academy spread on three floors at the Archroma Center of Excellence and saw the developmental work in progress. He was shown printing of multi-colored fabrics along with research based developmental analysis in the laboratories.
The globally acclaimed ‘Zero Liquid Discharge Sustainable Effluent Treatment Plant’ and the aniline-free* indigo produced at Jamshoro were the two of the main highlights showcased as best-in-class sustainable practices in the industry. Presentations and discussions were held on continued enhancement of these landmarks with the local industry.
“Sustainable practices of Archroma are most befitting for a specialty chemical company. We are delighted to get oriented with measures taken by Archroma Pakistan not only towards saving water by Zero Discharge Plant but also combating water pollution by producing aniline-free indigo. High standards of quality in the labs can be compared with any other global institution,” commented Foreign Minister of Switzerland Ignazio Cassis.
“Archroma is a torch bearer in saving natural resources and bringing the advantages of sustainable practices to the industry as well as the local community. The textile industry is emulating our best practices in their mills. We are therefore honored that Ignazio Cassis visited us and appreciated our engagement to transform our industry,” Mujtaba Rahim, CEO of Archroma Pakistan, said in his address.
INEOS Styrolution Introduces New ASA Grade to Address the Growing Market of Small Medical Devices for Home and Hospital
Luran S MED 797S SPF30: One of the first ASA materials in the market specifically for medical device housings. High impact and UV resistance with good processability and strong chemical resistance against disinfectants. Also compliant with ISO 10993-5/10
Luran S ECO MED 797S SPF30 BC40: Also available using renewable feedstock.
INEOS Styrolution, the global leader in styrenics, today announced the introduction of a new ASA “MED” material dedicated to applications in the healthcare industry. It was designed specifically having small medical device housings and casings in mind.
The new Luran S MED 797S SPF30 is a member of INEOS Styrolution’s ASA product family Luran S. Luran S excels with strong property performance such as chemical resistance, UV resistance, and impact strength. Suitable for injection moulding applications, Luran S offers excellent flowability for easy processing.
Luran S MED 797S SPF30, available in NR (Natur) and in white (WT000112), builds on these strengths. The product shows excellent chemical resistance against alcohols (e.g. IPA, ethanol, propanol) or alcohol based disinfectants. It also shows good resistance against quaternary ammonium or glutaral based disinfectants making it a material of choice for clinical environments.
High impact strength specifically at room temperature and at lower temperatures (5°C) contribute to a better protection of devices, e.g. avoiding cracking failures when a device drops to the floor. This particular performance trait makes Luran S MED 797S SPF30 a compelling alternative to standard ABS materials.
The new Luran S grade is also available using renewable feedstock, based on a mass balance process certified under ISCC PLUS. Luran S ECO MED 797S SPF30 BC40 contains 40% renewable content resulting in a carbon footprint reduction of up to 52% compared to fossil-based Luran S.
Bernd Elbert, Market Development Manager at INEOS Styrolution says: “The market segment of small, mobile medical and hospital devices is growing rapidly. The properties of our new Luran S MED 797S SPF30 make it a very strong contender for device housings and casings in this specific category. I invite every application designer to explore our new product for their next project.”
Starlinger & Co GmbH: Pioneering Sustainable Packaging Solutions for a Greener Tomorrow
An Exclusive interview with Angelika Huemer, Managing Partner Starlinger & Co GmbH
Modern Plastics India, Modern Business India: Fantastic! Let’s dive right in. Can you provide us with an overview of Starlinger recycling technology and its role in the mechanical engineering and process technology landscape?
Angelika Huemer: Absolutely. Starlinger recycling technology is a pioneering division of Starlinger & Co GmbH that specializes in developing advanced machinery and equipment for recycling plastic waste. Our solutions enable the transformation of used plastics into high-quality raw materials that can be reused in various industries. We focus on promoting sustainability, circular economy practices, and resource conservation through innovative technology.
MPI, MBI: That’s truly commendable. Could you highlight some of the key innovations and technologies that set Starlinger recycling technology apart?
Angelika Huemer: One of our flagship innovations is the “circular packaging” concept, where we offer systems to recycle post-consumer plastic waste that can subsequently be used to produce the same type of packaging again. For instance, we are known for our PET bottle-to-bottle recycling technology which guarantees food-safe recycled PET that has the same properties like virgin PET and can be used to produce high-quality food and beverage packaging. The Starlinger PET recycling process has received Letters of Non-Objection from the US FDA, positive opinions from the European EFSA, and has recently also been approved by the Indian FSSAI. Or our “viscoSHEET” technology, which enables the production of high-quality PET sheets from recycled materials which can be used for packaging applications in a wide range of industries like automotive, consumer goods, and others.
Furthermore, our “recoSTAR” plastics recycling technology employs sophisticated processes that can turn even heavily contaminated plastic waste from PE, PP, PA, PS, BOPP etc. into valuable raw materials. One of our latest projects is called “From big bag to big bag” and involves the recycling of big bags made of polypropylene in a way that the recycled polypropylene can be used for producing heavy-duty fabric for big bags again – a challenge that we have mastered successfully.
MPI, MBI: Impressive range of innovations, indeed. How does Starlinger recycling technology ensure that its solutions are environmentally friendly and aligned with the principles of sustainability?
Angelika Huemer: Sustainability is deeply ingrained in our company’s DNA. We design our machinery to maximize energy efficiency, minimize waste generation, and ensure that the recycling process itself has a lower environmental footprint compared to traditional manufacturing. By giving plastic waste a new life, we contribute to reducing the demand for virgin materials and help combat plastic pollution.
MPI, MBI: It’s clear that Starlinger recycling technology is making significant strides. Could you share any recent success stories or projects that exemplify the impact of your technology?
Angelika Huemer: Certainly. One notable example is our collaboration with a major global beverage company that aimed to increase the sustainability of its packaging. By implementing our PET recycling technology, they were able to close the loop, recycling used PET bottles into new bottles. This not only reduced their environmental impact but also showcased the viability of circular economy practices in the industry.
MPI, MBI: That’s a great testament to your technology’s effectiveness. As we wrap up, where do you see the future of mechanical engineering and process technology headed, and how does Starlinger recycling technology plan to stay at the forefront?
Angelika Huemer: The future holds immense opportunities for advancements in mechanical engineering and process technology. As environmental concerns grow, industries are becoming more conscious of their resource utilization and waste management practices. We see ourselves as a key contributor to this transition. We’ll continue to invest in research and development to refine our recycling processes, explore new materials, and adapt our technology to evolving needs. By doing so, we aim to remain leaders in driving positive change regarding how we approach plastic waste and its transformation.
MPI, MBI: Your focus on customization is noteworthy. How does Starlinger recycling technology ensure that its solutions remain at the forefront of innovation and technology?
Angelika Huemer: Innovation is one of the key factors in our approach. We invest significantly in research and development to stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements. Collaborating closely with our clients enables us to understand their specific challenges and requirements, which drives us to create tailored solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible. This innovative process ensures that our technology remains cutting-edge and aligned with the evolving needs of the industry.
MPI, MBI: It’s clear that customer collaboration is pivotal. Can you share any success stories or notable projects that exemplify the impact of Starlinger recycling technology’s specialized solutions?
Angelika Huemer.
Angelika Huemer: Definitely. One recent success story involves a partnership with a major textile manufacturer. They faced challenges in recycling their production waste, which included nonwoven materials. Through close collaboration, we developed a bespoke recycling solution that not only addressed their waste management needs but also enabled them to incorporate recycled materials into their new products, which helped them align with their sustainability goals.
MPI, MBI: That’s a powerful testament to your problem-solving abilities. As we look ahead, how does Starlinger recycling technology envision its role in shaping the future of recycling machines for thermoplastics?
Angelika Huemer: Our vision is to remain at the forefront of technological innovation, driving positive change within the recycling landscape. As industries become more environmentally conscious, the demand for sustainable solutions will continue to grow. We aim to be the go-to partner for companies seeking cutting-edge recycling technologies that not only solve challenges but also contribute to the circular economy and reduce the environmental footprint of plastic waste.
MPI, MBI: As we conclude, is there a message you’d like to share with your clients, partners, and the industry as a whole about Starlinger recycling technology’s dedication to excellence?
Angelika Huemer: To our valued clients, partners, and everyone who believes in our mission, I want to express our gratitude for your trust and collaboration. Our commitment to excellence drives us to innovate and create solutions that have a lasting positive impact. Together, we’re shaping the future of recycling and sustainability, one specialized application at a time.
MPI, MBI: Thank you for your insights. It’s been enlightening to learn about Starlinger recycling technology’s contributions to the world of recycling machines for thermoplastics.
Angelika Huemer: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure to share our journey and aspirations for a greener and more sustainable future.
STIHL Honors Envalior as ”Supplier of the Year 2022”
Award from STIHL
Secure and reliable supply of products and services
Global production network as well as product and development expertise available worldwide
STIHL has named LANXESS Performance Materials GmbH, which is now part of Envalior, as one of its “Suppliers of the Year 2022” alongside four other companies. The family company has been honoring suppliers for outstanding performance in terms of quality, technology, innovation, service, and value for money since 1990. The awards were presented on June 28, 2023, at the recently opened STIHL Brand World in Waiblingen by Anke Kleinschmit, Executive Board Member for Research and Development, and Marc Moser, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Purchasing. Among other things, Envalior supplies STIHL with Durethan-brand polyamide compounds – in some cases in customized shades.
Long-standing, pancontinental partnership “STIHL, a long-standing partner of ours, was particularly appreciative of our reliable, fast and flexible supply of products and services to all of its locations around the world despite the global supply chain disruption,” said Tim Albert, Sales Director for Germany, Austria and Switzerland at Envalior. This success is based on the fact that Envalior and its production has a pancontinental presence and is therefore close to its international customers everywhere. “Moreover, our product and development expertise is available in all major economic areas. We can therefore provide our partners with targeted and extensive support wherever they are,” explains Dr. Thomas Brackemeyer, Vice President Business, Performance Materials, at Envalior. For example, Envalior operates compounding facilities for Durethan polyamides and Pocan polyesters in Krefeld-Uerdingen in Germany, in Wuxi in China, in Gastonia in the U.S. and in Porto Feliz in Brazil. It also has a dense network of regional and local centers for product and application development. For example, Envalior operates these service centers in Wuxi, Hong Kong, Porto Feliz and in Jhagadia in India.
STIHL develops, manufactures, and sells power tools for forestry, agriculture, landscaping, construction, and home gardeners. It has been the world’s top-selling chainsaw brand since 1971.
Envalior is a new company formed as a result of the merger of two industry leaders, DSM Engineering Materials (DEM) and LANXESS High Performance Materials (HPM). It is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high performance engineering plastics.
Certified Recyclates for High-Quality Applications
Plastics distributor and compounder WIS Kunststoffe is continuously expanding its product range. At Fakuma 2023, the company is now presenting new certified recyclates from up to 100 percent post-consumer collections with various approvals for demanding applications.
At Fakuma 2023, WIS Kunststoffe will present its capabilities as a compounder and distributor. WIS Kunststoffe places particular emphasis on its high-quality regranulates. WIS offers recyclates from both post-consumer sources (PCR) and post-industrial sources (PIR). Daniel Römhild, authorized signatory at WIS Kunststoffe, explains, “We have secured long-term access to recycling streams and, because we have our own production facilities, we can respond very individually to our customers’ requirements. In our fully equipped in-house laboratory, we can constantly monitor the quality of our products at the highest level,” explains Daniel Römhild. WIS Kunststoffe offers compounds with different recycled content optimized for specific applications. For example, recyclates with high color purity can be offered in white or natural colors, which have approval for the production of cosmetic packaging or toys.
Broad portfolio of application-specific recyclates
At Fakuma, WIS Kunststoffe will show odor-optimized polypropylene and polyethylene recyclates. These are suitable for sensitive applications, such as toys or household applications. For applications in the automotive industry, special “high-tech” recyclates (PCR) have been developed that meet the high standards of the industry and already fulfill the criteria of the upcoming regulations in this area. Reinforced variants (e.g. with glass fibers, glass beads, or talc) are also offered for exterior components, while odor-optimized grades with low emission values are available for interiors. Also new are polyamides with high heat resistance for technical applications, especially in the engine compartment. For the packaging industry, WIS now offers recycled polystyrenes (rPS).
The company from Breitungen has invested substancially in its technical equipment. Among other things, new extruders, testing equipment as well as modern recycling technology were purchased. “Only with state-of-the-art machines can we meet the high state of the art is it possible to meet our customers’ high quality demands,” Daniel Römhild knows.
Certified recyclates – safe to use
Daniel Römhild explains: “The demand for recyclates with high purity is constantly increasing and this trend will continue. and this trend will continue. More and more consumers and companies are attaching importance to sustainability and resource conservation in combination with a low low carbon footprint. We want to take account of this development and our certified PCR recyclates, we are opening up new application markets for our customers. We are particularly proud of the certification of our recycling plant according to EuCertPlast. This officially confirms that WIS Kunststoffe handles post-consumer plastics according to best practices and with respect for the environment.
EuCertPlast certification is the prerequisite for ensuring, for our recyclates to be used in the production of products bearing the “Blauer Engel” an important argument for environmentally conscious plastics processors.” In addition, the company is currently planning the acquisition of a larger photovoltaic system with the aim of achieving CO2-neutral production.
: Colorful recyclates for a wide range of applications, such as cosmetics, toys, automotive and much more.
High purity – great safety
All materials from WIS Kunststoffe have application-specific approvals. These include European food approvals according to (EU) No. 10/2011 , FDA, leave-on & rinse-off for cosmetics (EC) No. 1223/2009 and EN-71 for the toy industry. All common conformities can be confirmed, such as REACH, California Proposition 65, SVHC, etc. Furthermore, automotive applications can be realized according to European as well as global standards. Individual solutions for applications from the electronics sector (some with flame retardancy) can also be implemented, always tailored to the requirements of the respective project.
Daniel Römhild says: “We are looking forward to discussions and a common exchange about exciting projects and applications. Visit us at our new trade fair stand, which is entirely dedicated to the topic of the circular economy and awaits you with numerous concrete application examples. Let’s find out together how uncomplicated the use of high-quality recyclates can be.” WIS Kunststoffe GmbH, Hall B4, Booth B4-4307
“FORWARD!” action plan: Annual savings of around EUR 150 million from 2025 onward and more efficient positioning
Second-quarter sales down 11.1 percent to EUR 1.778 billion
EBITDA pre exceptionals down 57.7 percent year-on-year at EUR 107 million
Positive contribution from the Microbial Control business acquired from IFF in 2022
Net debt reduced by around a quarter to EUR 2.9 billion
Guidance for full year: EBITDA pre exceptionals between EUR 600 million and EUR 650 million
CEO Matthias Zachert: “We are taking measures to counter the economic downturn, but we urgently need competitive framework conditions – above all an electricity tariff for industry.”
With its “FORWARD!” action plan, special chemical company LANXESS counteracts the phase of weak economic development. This will initially save LANXESS around EUR 100 million in 2023 through one-time cost reductions and lower investments. In addition, the Group is positioning itself more efficiently and will permanently reduce its annual costs by around EUR 150 million from 2025 onward.
LANXESS’ business figures for the second quarter were again dominated by the weak global demand in many customer industries: Sales amounted to EUR 1.778 billion, down 11.1 percent from the previous year’s figure of EUR 1.999 billion. EBITDA pre exceptionals decreased by 57.7 percent from EUR 253 million to EUR 107 million. For the full year 2023, LANXESS expects EBITDA pre exceptionals of between EUR 600 million and EUR 650 million. The Group therefore confirmed the provisional guidance for the second quarter and the full year 2023 published on June 19.
The negative earnings performance was due to continued weak demand in many customer industries, ongoing inventory reduction among customers, and lower selling prices. China, the world’s largest chemical market, also failed to stimulate demand. Only the Consumer Protection segment achieved growth in sales. The contribution from the Microbial Control business acquired from IFF at the beginning of July 2022 had a positive effect here.
The Group’s EBITDA margin pre exceptionals was 6.0 percent, against 12.7 percent in the prior-year quarter. Net income from continuing operations declined to EUR -145 million in the second quarter compared with EUR 48 million in the prior-year quarter.
“The chemical industry and LANXESS are in a difficult situation right now. There is currently no sign of a recovery in demand anticipated for the second half of the year. We are therefore taking countermeasures: With our ‘FORWARD!’ action plan, we are stabilizing our earnings in the short term, lowering our costs in the long term and refining our structures and processes. When the economy picks up again, we want to get back on track quickly,” said Matthias Zachert, Chairman of the Board of Management of LANXESS AG. “But that is not enough. Politicians need to finally wake up. In the current phase of economic weakness, the location Germany is not competitive internationally. We urgently need sustainable framework conditions – above all an internationally competitive electricity tariff for the industry, the reduction of excessive bureaucracy and faster approval procedures.”
“FORWARD!” action plan
The “FORWARD!” action plan has three parts. As a first step, the Group has taken immediate measures to quickly stabilize its earnings for the current fiscal year. The measures include strict cost discipline in all areas as well as a Europe-wide hiring freeze. This will result in one-time savings of EUR 100 million, half of which from cost reductions and half from lower investments.
With a package of structural measures, the Group intends to become more efficient in the long term and reduce its costs by EUR 150 million a year. The measures will be implemented successively and will take full effect from 2025 onwards. LANXESS projects one-time costs of around EUR 100 million for the implementation. The focus is on analyzing energy-intensive operations among the global plants and facilities and a streamlining of administrative structures.
Among the German production facilities, the plans are focused on the Krefeld-Uerdingen site: The hexane oxidation there is very energy-intensive and is to be shut down by 2026. The facility for chromium oxide production at this location is to be sold. For the event that a sale cannot be realized, LANXESS is also considering shutting down this facility.
The third part of the action plan is the further refinement of the business model. “In recent years, we have consistently reoriented our portfolio toward specialty chemicals and already achieved leading market positions in many areas. It is now time to fully leverage the potential of our new businesses. In addition, we want to further expand our range of sustainable products,” said Zachert.
Debt significantly reduced
LANXESS significantly reduced its debt in the second quarter. Net financial liabilities decreased by 24.9 percent from EUR 3.814 billion as of December 31, 2022, to EUR 2.863 billion as of June 30, 2023. The decrease resulted primarily from the payment received in connection with the formation of the joint venture Envalior. As of April 1 this year, LANXESS contributed its High Performance Materials business unit to the joint venture with the private equity investor Advent International in return for a payment of around EUR 1.27 billion from Advent.
Segments: Low demand from nearly all industries
The integration of the Microbial Control business acquired as of July 1, 2022, made a significant contribution to the Consumer Protection segment’s sales in the second quarter of 2023. Sales rose by 8.2 percent from EUR 558 million in the prior-year period to EUR 604 million. However, lower selling prices and volumes had the opposite effect. EBITDA pre exceptionals therefore amounted to EUR 82 million, down 8.9 percent on the prior-year period’s figure of EUR 90 million. The EBITDA margin pre exceptionals reached 13.6 percent, against 16.1 percent a year ago.
Weak demand, especially from the construction and electronics industries, negatively affected the Specialty Additives segment’s sales and earnings. Sales amounted to EUR 620 million in the second quarter of 2023, down 18.8 percent compared with the prior-year quarter’s figure of EUR 764 million. EBITDA pre exceptionals amounted to EUR 37 million in the second quarter of this year, down a considerable 72.4 percent from the previous year’s figure of EUR 134 million. The EBITDA margin pre exceptionals decreased from 17.5 percent in the previous year to 6.0 percent.
Lower selling prices and volumes negatively affected the Advanced Intermediates segment’s figures. Demand was weak from the construction and chemical industries in particular. Sales amounted to EUR 484 million in the second quarter of 2023, down 17.5 percent from the previous year’s figure of EUR 587 million. EBITDA pre exceptionals decreased by 68.9 percent from EUR 74 million in the prior-year period to EUR 23 million. The EBITDA margin pre exceptionals declined to 4.8 percent, against 12.6 percent a year ago.
EcoSol: A Path to More Convenient, Safer, Precise Packaging!
When we think of packaging, our minds often go to papers or plastics that surround a product and must be thrown away or reused after the contents have been removed. However, PVA dissolvable packaging is another growing, desirable option for a variety of markets. Cortec discusses some of the advantages, opportunities, and historical use of EcoSol below.
Advantages of Water-Soluble Plastic Film
EcoSol is a PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) packaging film that dissolves in water at room temperature. This special characteristic offers several advantages for specialty packaging applications.
Precision: Products that are added to a watery environment can be dosed precisely by the manufacturer. All the end user has to do is place the EcoSol pouch or package directly into the environment where it needs to go.
Safety: Chemicals or contaminated items packaged inside EcoSol can be handled without touching them directly. Since EcoSol is water-soluble and biodegradable, it is also less likely to pollute the environment like other forms of plastic packaging.
Convenience: The previous two characteristics are part of the greater overall convenience of EcoSol packaging. Application of the encapsulated product simply means tossing the entire unit—bag and all—into the target area without extra mess or hassle.
Expand Packaging Options with EcoSol
EcoSol has good mechanical properties and is heat sealable, allowing it to be made into bags, sachets, or pouches for a wide range of products. Some examples are as follows.
Healthcare – EcoSol can be made into bags for dirty laundry or contaminated instruments. When collected, these bags can be thrown directly into the washing machine or parts washers to eliminate direct contact with dirty items.
While the linens or instruments are cleaned, the EcoSol bag is washed away, leaving its clean contents behind.
Agriculture – fertilizers or other soil or livestock nutrients can be packaged in EcoSol and easily mixed with water for final application.
Construction – EcoSol is a great way to package concrete additives. The pouches can be tossed into ready-mix water to dissolve prior to adding cementitious materials.
Water Treatment – EcoSol is an excellent packaging and dosing choice for biologicals and nutrients that will be added to wastewater, or for corrosion inhibitors and scale removers that will be added to industrial boilers or heat exchangers. The film will dissolve quickly in these warm, wet environments.
Cleaning Supplies – EcoSol can be used to wrap detergent cartridges that can be inserted touch-free into the dishwasher. It is also a great way to package powder cleaning concentrates for easy addition to buckets of wash water.
Personal Care Products – EcoSol can be made into disposable cases for beauty products or used to wrap bathing products that will be directly thrown into bath water (e.g., bath salts).
The list goes on, with many other creative and practical uses.
Preventing Product Loss
EcoSol Film was able to take packaging in a new direction for an agriculture supplement company that packaged manure and feed additives in regular bags. When the powders were dumped out of the bags for application, the wind sometimes carried part of the product away. Using EcoSol allowed the company to package the manure additive powders in pouches that customers could add directly to a watery environment without fear of product loss.
Make Life Easier with EcoSol
Dissolvable packaging is an excellent solution for many packaging applications. The chief benefit is to make life easier for the end user, which in turn makes business easier for manufacturers who want products to work well for customers. If you have an application that might benefit from water-soluble packaging, contact Cortec to discuss EcoSol options.
Eng. Moteb Al-Mezani, Director General of GAC, commented “We are thrilled to support the initiatives of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) and contribute with GAC internationally recognized accreditation services to achieve the goals of this Memorandum of Understanding that reflects our joint dedication to fostering excellence and sustainability in the chemical and petrochemical industry within the GCC region. Together, we will pave the way for a future marked by accountability, transparency, and compliance, ensuring that our industry meets the highest standards and contributes to a cleaner, more environmentally responsible world.”
