Braskem to build new ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene plant

Braskem says that the main advantages of UTEC are its "excellent" mechanical properties, such as high abrasion resistance, impact strength and low coefficient of friction. UTEC is a self-lubricating, high-strength, lightweight machinable product used for semi-finished goods. UTEC is eight times lighter than steel and reportedly lasts ten times longer than HDPE. UTEC is used in a vast array of applications in the following industries: construction, agriculture, automotive, textile, pulp and paper, food and beverage, coal and mining, high performance fibers, battery separators and waste water treatment.

"We are excited about today's announcement. We believe our investment reinforces Braskem's dedication to the plastics industry and to our strategic markets and clients," said Fernando Musa, CEO, Braskem America.  "This is the next logical step for our UTEC business as we have been providing UTEC to clients in the United States and Europe for over ten years. Further, this new plant will potentially enable Braskem to serve more markets than we have been able to serve in the past," Musa added.