Speciality chemicals producer Polynt-Reichhold (Durham, North Carolina / USA; www.polynt.com/en) said it plans to invest in the production of maleic anhydride and phthalic anhydride intermediates in the Americas. CEO Rosario Valido said the company will either purchase or build the capacity as part of its strategy to expand in the region.

The company “will purchase capacity or build maleic and phthalic plants with total combined capacity above 100,000 t/y,” Valido said. Integrating intermediates and resin production has allowed the group to gain a strong position in the European composites business, and this investment in the Americas will enable it to leverage its proprietary technologies and experience of operating intermediates facilities in Europe and Asia, he added.

Polynt-Reichhold comprises composite specialist Polynt (Scanzorosciate / Italy; www.polynt.it) and polyester resin producer Reichhold (Research Triangle Park, North Carolina / USA; www.reichhold.com) – see Plasteurope.com of 24.05.2017.

Polynt is also installing a new maleic anhydride reactor at its Ravenna plant. The plant is to replace the existing 60,000 t/y reactor at the site, with start-up scheduled for 2021.