Estimating 2014 global demand for DEHT at 500,000 tons, Eastman Chemical anticipates continued growth for nonphthalate plasticizers and expects the market to need its next phase of capacity expansion by mid-2016, according to Jon Woods, Plasticizers Business Unit Director. "This additional capacity would also leverage the existing plants in Kingsport and Texas City and be a relatively low-cost investment that would take our full capacity for Eastman 168 above 200,000 tons. The combination of our Kingsport and Texas City manufacturing allows Eastman to sustain its leadership position to serve both the North American and export markets, with Europe being a particular area of focus," says Woods.

Nonphthalate plasticizers are broadly used in products such as toys, childcare items, food contact materials and medical devices, and are also used to provide flexibility to PVC in a variety of applications. End markets for nonphthalate plasticizers include building and construction, health and wellness, and a broad range of consumer products.