Chemtura expands capacity of Low Free MDI prepolymers in Italy

Chemtura Corporation announced the expansion of the Low Free (LF) MDI polyurethane elastomers production capacity at its Latina, Italy, facility. The expansion, due for completion by the end of 2016, will complement the company’s existing LF MDI production capability in Gastonia, NC, USA, and ensure a flexible, reliable supply to its customers.

According to Chemtura, the company manufactures one of the broadest lines of Low Free prepolymers, including product families based on Low Free TDI, MDI, PPDI, and HDI for cast elastomer applications. Adiprene LF MDI prepolymers form part of the company’s MbOCA replacement technology, which is said to offer improved processing over MbOCA-free alternatives and very good performance in demanding urethane applications.

Chemtura says its increased manufacturing footprint in Italy will position the company to best respond to growth in customer demand following the restriction of MbOCA use within the EU REACH legislation applicable countries, for polyurethane production by 22 November 2017. At the same time, the move allows the Gastonia facility greater flexibility to balance production between the different LF prepolymer chemistries, says Chemtura.

Chemtura, with 2015 sales of USD 1.7 billion, is a global manufacturer and marketer of speciality chemicals. The company's Urethanes business is a leader in hot-cast prepolymers and a leading manufacturer of speciality aqueous urethane dispersions, urethane surface coatings, and polyester polyols.