PP catalyst plant of CB&I and Clariant begin production in 2015

CB&I and Clariant have announced that their new Ziegler-Natta (ZN) polypropylene catalyst production plant in Louisville, Kentucky, is on schedule to begin production in 2015. The plant is part of a long-term strategic partnership between Clariant’s Catalysts business unit and CB&I’s Lummus Novolen Technology business. Based at Clariant’s largest US production hub, the facility will combine innovative catalysts - jointly developed by both companies with high-capacity output to serve the fast growing polypropylene industry.
 
The strategic partnership with a major polypropylene process licensor like CB&I marks a new era for the polypropylene catalyst segment within Clariant. Stefan Heuser, Senior Vice President, Head of BU Catalysts Clariant, stated, “The successful joint development of new generation polypropylene catalyst and progressing of Louisville plant are key milestones for our catalyst business. It strengthens greatly our competitive position in this attractive and fast growing market.”
 
“Polypropylene producers will benefit from this joint catalyst development effort. High productivity, versatility and quality consistency will be the major benefits coupled with competitive economics. We are very pleased with the progress made with the Clariant team in all the areas of our joint effort,” added Daniel McCarthy, President of CB&I’s Technology operating group.