Eastman Chemical Co. (Kingsport, TN) has opened a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) application development center. The new facility will reportedly enable Eastman to combine its portfolio of high-performance additives and specialty polymers with its technical expertise to help compounders, component manufacturers, and OEMs develop solutions for new TPE applications. Moreover, the facility will assist Eastman in the development of unique blends based on its product line of Eastman copolyester elastomers.

Equipped with the latest compounding equipment, including single-screw and twin-screw extruders, a two-roll mill, film extrusion (with the capability to coextrude up to five-layer films), and injection molding capabilities, the facility will enable users to develop and test their products with the help and guidance of Eastman experts.

“Bringing together Eastman’s insight and unique products with the know-how and ingenuity of compounders and OEMs, our new facility offers a one-stop-shop for the development and testing of groundbreaking TPE products,” said Carol Perkins, platform leader, Resins & Specialty Polymers. —[email protected]