Chemtura to expand Adiprene LF MDI prepolymers capacity in Italy

Chemtura Corporation is expanding the low-free (LF) MDI polyurethane elastomers production capacity at its Latina (Italy) facility. The expansion, due for completion by the end of 2016, will complement Chemtura’s existing LF MDI production capability in Gastonia (North Carolina, USA) and ensures a flexible, reliable supply of LF MDI for Chemtura's customers.
 
Chemtura manufactures the broadest line of low-free prepolymers, including product families based on low-free TDI, MDI, PPDI and HDI for cast elastomer applications and benefits from one of the most efficient and effective LF manufacturing processes in the industry.
 
Adiprene LF MDI prepolymers form part of Chemtura’s premium MbOCA replacement technology, which offers improved processing over MbOCA-free alternatives and outstanding performance in the most demanding urethane applications. Chemtura's increased manufacturing footprint in Italy will position the company to best respond to growth in customer demand following the restriction of MbOCA use within the EU REACH legislation applicable countries, for polyurethane production by November 22, 2017. At the same time, the move allows Chemtura's Gastonia facility greater flexibility to balance production between the different LF prepolymer chemistries.