The project is in response to growing regional and global demand for the products in various applications, such as hygiene products and non-woven textiles used in health care, including face masks. The peroxides are also used in a wide variety of rubber goods, for instance rubber hoses, seals, cable insulation, athletic shoe soles and yoga mats.

Another use is plastics recycling where the organic peroxides can enhance the properties of recycled PP, allowing customers to replace virgin, fossil-based material.

“This investment supports Nouryon’s strategy of maintaining our leading position in organic peroxides. It also underlines our focus on supporting our customers’ growth and ‘closing the loop’ in plastics,” said Alain Rynwalt, senior vice president of polymer specialties. “The customer interest in improving the properties of recycled PP continues to rise, in line with increased consumer awareness.”

Nouryon also produces organic peroxides in Tianjin, China; Asa, Japan; Mahad, India; Mons, Belgium; Pasadena, California, USA; Los Reyes, Mexico; and Itupeva, Brazil.

The Ningbo site in China is Nouryon’s largest in the country, consisting of seven plants that produce chelates, ethylene amines, cellulose ethers, organic peroxides, surfactants and expandable microspheres.

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist