Solvay to increase Tecnoflon (PC Fluoroelastomers) production capacity in Spinetta Marengo

Solvay announces that it has decided to increase the production capacity for Peroxide Curable Fluoroelastomers, commercialized under the trademark Tecnoflon®, in the Solvay Solexis plant at Spinetta Marengo, Italy. Solvay is investing EUR 10 million in the capacity increase, which is expected to start producing in the first half of 2012.

Demand for PC Fluoroelastomers in the automotive industry is rapidly growing as these polymers withstanding high temperatures and presenting a marked chemical resistance are very well suited for low emission and alternative fuels applications, such as biodiesel which is more demanding for the equipments than conventional mineral diesel. They are also used in systems for alternative fuels containing methanol or ethanol where their low permeability reduces fuel losses, in shaft seals without spring that have less friction and thus higher energy efficiency or in more energy efficient turbo charge
hoses as they function at higher temperatures.

For their flexibility combined with superior mechanical properties, PC Fluoroelastomers are equally used for demanding applications in the aerospace industry and in the aggressive chemical and very hot environments that are common in the oil and gas extraction.

“Our outstanding high-performance fluoroelastomers are helping our customers to increase energy efficiency and reduce emissions. Demand for these products has rebounded impressively above pre-crisis level and is expected to continue growing as they are substituting less performing materials and are used in new applications. We are committed to support our clients in this endeavor and maintain our leadership position in this area”, comments Pierre Joris, Managing Director of Solvay Solexis. “The performances of our unique range of high-performance specialty polymers clearly demonstrate chemistry is helping to respond to the global challenges”, adds Augusto Di Donfrancesco, General Manager of Solvay’s Strategic Business Unit Specialty Polymers.