 "DSM and NHU launch their JV for high performance PPS compounds")
DSM, the Dutch multinational active in the fields of health, nutrition and materials, and specialty chemicals producer Zhejiang NHU Special Materials Co Ltd (NHU) have inaugurated their joint venture company for polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) compounds, DSM NHU Engineering Plastics Zhejiang Co Ltd. The JV, which was announced May 2015, has been established in Zhejiang province, close to NHU’s linear PPS polymer plant in Shangyu, for manufacturing of the high performance compounds.
DSM has a 60 percent share in DSM NHU Engineering Plastics Zhejiang Co Ltd, with NHU holding the remaining 40 percent. Products, which are branded Xytron PPS, are marketed globally and targeted principally at automotive, electrical and electronics, water management and industrial markets. DSM will be marketing the product globally, including China.
The PPS polymer plant operated by NHU uses proven technology to provide high quality base polymer for the compounds. The joint venture will take over NHU’s existing compounding capacity. DSM for its part brings its long-standing expertise in application development and materials science, as well as access to its global customer network.
“Xytron PPS compounds will further enhance DSM’s offering in the high temperature performance engineering plastics space, adding to our leadership positions with Stanyl polyamide 46 and our ForTii polyamide 4T. They also complement our offerings in Akulon polyamide 6 and 66, and in Arnite and Arnitel thermoplastic polyesters for engineering applications. We now have a strengthened portfolio of solutions for customers operating in key markets,” said Roeland Polet, president DSM Engineering Plastics.
In the run-up to the official inauguration, the joint venture has already captured business in three important applications in both China and Europe, with materials currently being evaluated by numerous customers, including key automotive OEMs and tier ones. One of the three products already commercialised is an engine block heater for electric generators, which is required to operate in continuous contact with water at temperatures between 35 and 50°C.
