Texas Eastman Expansion

KINGSPORT, TENN. — Eastman Chemical Company has announced plans to expand production of hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins at both its Longview, Texas and Middelburg, The Netherlands, facilities.

According to a company news release. the Middelburg expansion, which is the third expansion of its Regalite hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins at this site since 2006, will increase current capacity by more than 20%. It is expected to be completed in the second half of 2011. In Longview, the company is planning a capacity increase of greater than 10% for its Eastotac hydrogenated aliphatic hydrocarbon resins. This expansion is planned for completion in early 2011.

“Around the world, demand continues to grow for Eastman’s hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins,” said Brad Lich, vice president and general manager of Eastman’s coatings, adhesives, specialty polymers and inks business. “These investments are a demonstration of our commitment to growing with our customers and to meeting demand in developing regions in advance of further capacity investments.”

Eastman’s hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins are used as raw materials essential in hot-melt and pressure sensitive adhesives, and as binders in nonwoven products such as disposable diapers, feminine products, and pre-saturated wipes. They are also used in a wide range of applications including plastics and rubber modification. Due to their versatility and broad compatibility, Eastman’s hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins can be formulated with a wide range of Styrenic and Polyolefinic polymers, and offer excellent color, stability, and adhesion.

“We are proud to announce these expansions in Middelburg and Texas,” said Ruud van der Eerden, business manager, hydrogenated and C9 hydrocarbon resins. “These two expansions will better allow us to serve growing markets and assure our customers that we are well positioned to reliably meet their needs now and in the future.”