Jan 27 2011
Solutia Inc. (NYSE: SOA) today announced plans to expand its current Crystex(R) insoluble sulfur operations in Kuantan, Malaysia, as part of its strategic plan to remain the leading global supplier of insoluble sulfur.
This expansion will double current capacity, making Solutia's Kuantan site the largest insoluble sulfur manufacturing facility in the world. The site was selected following a rigorous selection process, which recognized the site's efficient operations, high-quality workforce and ability to serve the rapidly growing markets of both China and India.
"Tire manufacturing has seen a tremendous migration into Asia, as our strategic partners and customers continue to add resources and capacity in this growing world region," said Greta Senn, president and general manager of Solutia's Technical Specialties division. "As the long-term global leader in insoluble sulfur innovation and technology, we remain committed to providing products with demonstrable performance advantage and serving our customers worldwide."
Solutia currently produces Crystex insoluble sulfur at seven locations around the world, including facilities in Kuantan, Malaysia and Kashima, Japan. "This expansion will allow us to build on the proven success of the Kuantan facility and further strengthen Solutia's reliability of supply in the broader Asia-Pacific region," added Senn.
Crystex insoluble sulfur is the vulcanizing agent of choice for critical applications in the tire industry, providing the highest level of quality, consistency and performance. In addition, Crystex HD (High Dispersion) insoluble sulfur offers tire manufacturers improved productivity and safety in their manufacturing processes.
Solutia's Technical Specialties division offers advanced chemical and specialty products that meet or exceed rigorous specifications and are distributed through a proven, global supply system. As one of the world's largest producers of chemicals for the rubber and tire industry, Solutia's products help control the process of manufacturing rubber while improving its durability, flexibility and appearance.
Source: http://www.solutia.com/