DSM Engineering Materials has officially opened its newly upgraded and expanded Evansville, IN, compounding facility. The investment, which has resulted in significant technology- and sustainability-focused improvements, will help DSM Engineering Materials meet growing demand for next-generation high-performance polymers used in a range of applications and will help drive the shift to a low-carbon, circular economy.

The 40,000-square-foot facility now integrates the latest state-of-the-art production technologies and runs on 100% purchased renewable electricity. The investment will help to meet long-term increased regional demand for high-performance polyamide, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and other advanced materials, such as Akulon PA6/PA66, Arnite PET/PBT, Arnitel TPC, EcoPaXX PA410, ForTii PA4T/PPA and Stanyl PA46. Arnitel TPC is a high-performance thermoplastic copolyester.

The extensive enhancement and expansion of the site is being driven by increasing customer demand for advanced material solutions for vehicle electrification and supporting infrastructure, along with lightweighting technologies in multiple industries. Enhancements to increase DSM’s capability to produce more sustainable bio-based and recyclate-based materials were also a key consideration when planning the project. The company has made a global commitment to produce bio-based and recyclate-based alternatives for its entire materials portfolio by 2030.

In addition to the transition to 100% renewable electricity, the project includes a number of advanced energy-saving features. The well-insulated structure is ventilated for optimal occupant health and comfort, while emissions are scrubbed to meet stringent environmental and safety standards. Cooling is conducted with environment-friendly, non-flammable refrigerant. Variable-speed drives are used on all compounding lines to reduce energy consumption, and optimized facility controls lead to further energy reductions.

“Our investment in the latest production equipment has reduced energy consumption in Evansville and lowered our environmental impact. Through this project, we also aim to strengthen our business partnerships by continuing to invest in key areas of sustainable growth,” said Roeland Polet, President of DSM Engineering Materials. “Additionally, this investment reinforces our focus on North America as a key growth market for our business."

Dave Miller, DSM Engineering Materials’ Evansville Site Director, added: “Investing in state-of-the-art technology provides both short- and long-term value. Enabling optimal health and comfort for all our colleagues – and increasing capacity – has positive effects we can see today, but this investment also underlines our commitment to sustainability and reducing our environmental impact in the long term. And by producing more bio- and recycled-based materials, we’ll be able to help more of our customers do the same.”