Sumitomo to build thermoplastic olefin elastomer plant in USA

Sumitomo to build thermoplastic olefin elastomer plant in USA

Sumitomo Chemical announced that it will build a TPE thermoplastic olefin elastomer manufacturing facility in Georgia, through its wholly owned U.S. subsidiary Sumitomo Chemical America, Inc.

The plant is scheduled to begin operation in the 2nd half of 2004, with a production capacity of approximately 5,000 tons [10 million pounds] per year. Thermoplastic elastomers [TPE] are lightweight, rubber-like resins valued for their excellent heat, weather, and chemical resistance as well as their good processability. Demand for TPE is growing, with recent TPE applications spanning a broad range, including hoses, stationery supplies, and synthetic leather, with its main use being for automobile parts such as interior sheet skins and airbag covers.

At the new Georgia facility, SCAI will be producing automobile body seal materials, in addition to the airbag cover resins and interior sheet resins currently manufactured on commission in Texas. SCAI will then have a complete lineup of Sumitomo TPE products.