DuPont Fluoropolymer Solutions and Zhonghao Chenguang Chemical Research Institute (Chenguang), a subsidiary of China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina), have formed a 50:50 joint venture for production and marketing of fluoroelastomer gums and pre-compounds in China.

Combining the two companies' expertise to launch new products, improve technology and optimize capacity toward guaranteeing a reliable supply of high-quality fluoroelastomers for markets and customers is the focus of the cooperation.

Both companies have strategic positions in the fluoroelastomers industry and are evaluating additional potential areas for strategic collaboration.

The joint venture, to be named DuPont Haohua Chenguang Fluoromaterials (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, will sell fluoroelastomers under the Chenguang and Viton brands, leveraging the DuPont technology leadership and the Chenguang integrated technology and manufacturing footprint. The jv also will invest in a new pre-compound manufacturing facility in Shanghai.

Thierry F. J. Vanlancker, president of DuPont Chemicals & Fluoroproducts, said the new company is " ideally positioned to support China's growing market for fluoroelastomers, particularly for high-performance applications in China's expanding automotive, aerospace, energy, electronics and telecommunications markets."

Robert Lu, vice president, China National Chemical Corporation said the cooperation will create a new entity that can more effectively serve customers in China and globally through new technologies and specialty fluoroelastomers.