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Styrolution is expanding its presence in the Americas. The German-based supplier of styrenic plastics will soon begin construction on a production line for alpha methyl styrene acrylonitrile (AMSAN) at its site in Altamira, Mexico. The new production line will enable Styrolution to expand its product offering and increase supply reliability in the region.

PlasticsToday Staff

October 30, 2013

2 Min Read
Styrolution to start production of specialty styrenics in the Americas

Styrolution is expanding its presence in the Americas. The German-based supplier of styrenic plastics will soon begin construction on a production line for alpha methyl styrene acrylonitrile (AMSAN) at its site in Altamira, Mexico. The new production line will enable Styrolution to expand its product offering and increase supply reliability in the region. It will also position the company for further growth throughout the Americas as well as in industries, such as automotive and construction. Production is set to start in the second quarter of 2014.

Products that include AMSAN are reportedly known for "exceptional heat resistant characteristics and excellent aesthetics." These qualities make Styrolution's AMSAN-based products, such as Luran S 778T, Novodur HH 106 & 112, and Luran HH 120, ideal for use in the automotive industry where applications demand premium appearance and performance at elevated temperatures. AMSAN is also compatible with other polymers such as PVC. The addition of AMSAN to PVC as a heat resistance modifier is especially important in the building and construction market for producers of siding, decking and fencing, the company said.

Currently, AMSAN is imported to the region from its plant in Ludwigshafen, Germany. The company says this new AMSAN line complements its production capacity in Europe. With this line, Styrolution will be the only producer of AMSAN in Europe and the Americas.

Styrolution's intention to start AMSAN production in Altamira aligns with the company's business strategy, which calls for a shift to lend greater focus on measures that will expand its footprint in three areas: styrenic specialties, emerging markets and higher-growth industries. The new plans for Altamira follow on the heels of an announcement by Styrolution and Braskem in early October 2013 where the two companies stated their intent to explore a joint venture to produce ABS and styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) copolymers in Brazil for the South American region.

"This new AMSAN capacity for the America's region is a key to fulfilling Styrolution's triple shift strategy," said Alexander Glueck, president of Americas, Styrolution. "Not only will it enable us to better serve customers throughout the Americas region, but we also anticipate the new specialties capacity will help us grow market share in higher growth industries."

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