Solvay increases global derivatized guar production by 40 percent

Brussels, 19-3-2013 — /europawire.eu/ — Solvay announced that it has finalized plans to increase its global derivatized guar production by 40 percent with the completion of recent expansions in the USA and China. Derivatized guar is a polymer produced from a bean grown mainly in India. Its inherent natural properties make it an ideal bio-based solution for applications in the oil and gas industry as a gelling agent, in hair care as a conditioner, and in agrochemicals as an anti-drift formulation.

“These expansions represent a significant step in the execution of our 2016 growth ambition,” Solvay Novecare President Emmanuel Butstraen said. “They enhance our leadership position and will support the growth plans of our customers and their innovation needs.”

The expanded Vernon, Texas USA derivatized guar facility will serve Solvay’s customers in the dynamic North American oil and gas market. The increased capacity at Solvay’s Zhangjiagang, (Jiangsu province) China site will help its home and personal care customers meet growing regional demand for high-end hair care products. With a third facility in Melle, France, Solvay is the only guar supplier with production capabilities in North America, Europe and Asia.

In addition, Novecare’s leadership in processing technologies give it added flexibility to meet its customers’ individual product development needs. Solvay also enjoys a 50-year joint venture partnership with an Indian-based leader in guar gum and guar extracts, helping secure its raw material supply.

“With our expansion investments, global footprint and security of supply, we are uniquely positioned to be the preferred provider for our customers,” Butstraen added.

NOVECARE, one of Solvay’s major Global Business Units generated net sales of approximately €1.6 billion in 2011 and is a global leader in developing surfactant, solvent and specialty polymer solutions. Serving the agrochemicals, coatings, home and personal care, industrial, and oil and gas markets, Novecare’s technology platforms are built on leading positions in surfactants, amines, phosphorus derivatives, natural & synthetic polymers and monomers, and eco-friendly solvents.

SOLVAY is an international chemical Group committed to sustainable development with a clear focus on innovation and operational excellence. It is realizing over 90% of its sales in markets where it is among the top 3 global leaders. Solvay offers a broad range of products that contribute to improving the quality of life and the performance of its customers in markets such as consumer goods, construction, automotive, energy, water and environment, and electronics. The Group is headquartered in Brussels, employs about 31,000 people in 55 countries and generated EUR 12.7 billion in net sales in 2011 (pro forma). Solvay SA (SOLB.BE) is listed on NYSE Euronext in Brussels and Paris (Bloomberg: SOLB.BB – Reuters: SOLBt.BR).

Contacts