Huntsman Expands Hungarian PU Catalyst Plant
Huntsman has announced plans to expand its production facilities for polyurethane catalysts and specialty amines at Petfurd, Hungary. The Texas-based US chemical producer did not say how much the capacity upgrade will cost, only that the “multi-million dollar” project is receiving a $3.8 million grant from the Hungarian government.
Expected to be completed by mid-2023, the expansion will not only increase global capacity but also provide more flexibility and innovative technologies for the polyurethane, coatings, metalworking and electronics industries, said the company that counts itself among the world’s leading amine catalyst producers.
In recent years, demand for its JEFFCAT-brand amine catalysts has accelerated globally, Huntsman noted. The specialty amines are used to manufacture foam for automobile seats, mattresses and energy-efficient spray foam insulation for buildings. Additionally, the company said its “latest generation innovative portfolio” supports the industry’s efforts to lower emissions and odors of consumer products and contributes to global sustainability efforts.
Commenting on the plans, Chuck Hirsch, senior vice president of Huntsman’s Performance Products segment, said the additional capacity “builds upon our previous expansions to further improve our capability and expand our product range of polyurethane catalysts and specialty amines.” With consumers increasingly demanding cleaner, eco-friendly solutions, he said the expansion “will position the company well for significant growth with these global sustainability trends.”
Author: Dede Williams, Freelance Journalist
