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Clariant increases capacity in Daya Bay facility and expands Exolit™ OP portfolio for e-mobility

Fri, 5 Jun 2026 07:15:00 GMT

MUTTENZ, June 5, 2026 - Clariant completes its CHF 100 million investment in the Daya Bay facility, with the second production line fully operational in November. This expanded capacity strengthens Clariant's ability to meet growing demand for more sustainable flame-retardant solutions in Asia and globally, particularly in the rapidly expanding e-mobility sector. "Our continued investment in the Daya Bay facility underscores our commitment to supporting the significant growth of engineering plastics applications in e-mobility and electrical & electronic segments," said Angela Cackovich, Business President Adsorbents & Additives and EMEA and Member of the Executive Steering Committee. "With this world-class manufacturing plant, we strengthen our leading position in innovative and more sustainable fire safety solutions while improving our ability to serve customers across the Asia Pacific region with reduced delivery times and tailored solutions." In addition, Clariant announced the expansion of its Exolit OP flame retardant portfolio with two new high-performance solutions specifically designed for polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) applications in e-mobility. The new products, Exolit OP 1242 (TP) and Exolit OP 1266 (TP) were featured at K 2025. Meeting critical e-mobility challenges The new Exolit OP flame retardants address two critical challenges in e-mobility applications. Exolit OP 1242 (TP) offers exceptional hydrolysis stability, while Exolit OP 1266 (TP) provides a stable comparative tracking index (CTI) of 600 V even after extended storage periods. Both products meet the UL 94 vertical test with V-0 classification down to a sample thickness of 0.4 mm at dosing levels of 15-20%. These innovations are particularly significant as the e-mobility industry transitions to higher voltage systems of 800 V and above, requiring materials with superior electrical insulation properties and long-term stability under demanding conditions. Sidestepping antimony market volatility The new halogen-free flame retardants offer manufacturers an attractive alternative to traditional systems based on antimony trioxide (ATO), which has experienced dramatic price increases and supply chain volatility in recent years. "Our new Exolit OP solutions not only deliver superior technical performance for e-mobility applications but also help manufacturers reduce their exposure to antimony market fluctuations," explained Mariano Suarez, Head of Marketing Additives at Clariant. "By offering halogen-free and ATO-free alternatives that don't require fluorinated polymers like PTFE, we are enabling our customers to meet growing OEM environmental requirements while maintaining reliable supply chains." Expanding the Exolit AP portfolio With tightening regulations and melamine being classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under EU REACH, the company has also developed Exolit AP 422 A, a halogen-free ammonium polyphosphate flame retardant with an improved sustainability profile for use in insulation materials, composites and intumescent coatings. It is SVHC-free according to Article 31 of the REACH Regulation as it contains less than 0.1% melamine. In polyurethane foam applications, this versatile flame retardant serves as an effective replacement for TCPP (tris(chloropropyl) phosphate) and TEP (triethyl phosphate), providing robust flame retardancy without unwanted plasticizing effects. With improved powder flowability for more efficient production handling, Exolit AP 422 A enables customers to create safer, more sustainable building materials that align with evolving regulatory requirements. Exolit™ IS A TRADEMARK OF CLARIANT.

Celebrating 50 years of flame retardants: Exolit™ AP leads the way to a more sustainable future

Fri, 5 Jun 2026 07:15:00 GMT

MUTTENZ, June 5, 2026 - In 2025, Clariant is proud to celebrate a significant milestone: 50 years of Exolit AP flame retardants protecting lives and property around the world. Based on advanced ammonium polyphosphate (APP) technology, these pioneering flame retardants have become the industry benchmark in a wide range of applications, including intumescent coatings, fire barrier sealing systems, thermoset composites for e-mobility battery housings and coatings, rigid polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation foams and more. As Clariant marks this golden anniversary, it is not just celebrating past achievements but actively shaping the future of fire protection. A legacy of innovation Since producing the first batch of Exolit AP at the Knapsack site in Germany in 1975, the Exolit AP product line has pioneered flame retardant technology. What began as a groundbreaking solution has evolved into a comprehensive portfolio that sets industry standards for performance and reliability. The recent launch of a SVHC-free Exolit AP grade demonstrates how this spirit of innovation continues today. Innovation for today and tomorrow The successful launch of SVHC-free Exolit AP marks a significant step forward in more sustainable flame retardant technology. This SVHC-free solution demonstrates Clariant’s commitment to meeting stringent safety and sustainability demands while maintaining superior fire resistance across multiple Passive Fire Protection (PFP) solutions such as fire stop systems and intumescent coatings, as well as flame-retardant applications like insulation panels. This development responds to the rising demand from health- and sustainability-conscious consumers and brands, including those who are actively seeking safer alternatives to products containing substances of concern. Similar to the growing adoption of PFAS-free alternatives across various markets, there is a clear shift in purchasing behavior towards safer solutions in PFP. Exolit AP 435: same trusted performance, now even better for tomorrow Building on this momentum, Clariant is excited to preview the next evolution in the journey towards SVHC-free fire protection: an enhanced version of the trusted Exolit AP 435. This evolution maintains the exceptional performance characteristics in water-based formulations that have made Exolit AP 435 the industry benchmark for shelf-life stability, while incorporating forward-thinking improvements to meet future regulatory requirements, all without compromising on fire protection performance. The power of partnership Clariant's success is built on strong customer partnerships, many spanning generations. As development of new sustainable flame retardant solutions continues, Clariant is actively seeking partners who share that commitment and want to help shape solutions that meet performance and compliance demands in practice. Working closely with customers ensures that new developments stay grounded in actual market needs – from the earliest stage through to final application. Milestones that matter Clariant’s 50-year journey has been marked by significant breakthroughs: 1975: Introducing Exolit AP 422 flame retardant 1983: Launching Exolit AP 462, encapsulated ammonium polyphosphate (APP) 1990s: Development of specialized solutions for intumescent coatings 2000s: Strategic expansion of intumescent coatings market 2015: Launching Exolit AP 435, setting new standards in viscosity control 2024: Introduction of new SVHC-free Exolit AP 2025: Continuing development of next-generation solutions "Through changing times and evolving industry needs, Exolit AP has remained at the forefront of innovation. From its origins in Hoechst AG to becoming a cornerstone of Clariant's portfolio in 1997, each decade has brought new challenges and achievements. The introduction of Exolit AP 462 in 1983 marked our first major breakthrough in encapsulated ammonium polyphosphate technology, setting new industry standards for performance and reliability," said Achim Hennemann, Head of Market Segment Passive Fire Protection. Today, this legacy of innovation continues. “The launch of new SVHC-free Exolit AP represents more than just a new product,” explained Adrian Beard, Global Industry Market Manager Flame Retardants. “It embodies our commitment to combining five decades of expertise with tomorrow's sustainability demands.” The road ahead As Clariant looks to the next 50 years, its commitment to innovation remains stronger than ever. The success of the new SVHC-free Exolit AP grade and the evolution of Exolit AP 435 demonstrate how the company can meet evolving industry needs while maintaining the high-performance standards that have defined Clariant’s products for half a century. Stefan Brejc, Global Vice President Segment Coatings & Adhesives proudly stated, “The same pioneering spirit that drove our first innovations in 1975 still drives us today. As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we're not just looking back at 50 years of achievement, we're building on this foundation to create the next generation of more sustainable flame retardants.” Note to the editors: Clariant celebrates a significant milestone in 2025: 30 years since its foundation and 50 years of Exolit AP. These anniversaries are closely linked, as Exolit AP was originally developed by Hoechst AG, whose specialty chemicals business was acquired by Clariant in 1997. This acquisition not only expanded Clariant's global presence but also brought Hoechst's innovative portfolio into the Clariant family. It's important to note that while Clariant was officially founded in 1995, the legacy of Exolit AP dates back to Hoechst AG, making 2025 a double celebration of innovation and heritage for both Clariant and its renowned flame retardant additive. This context highlights the shared heritage and provides clarity for readers. For more details on Clariant’s history and milestones, visit our history page: Clariant at a Glance – History. Learn more about Clariant’s intumescent coatings here. Exolit™ IS A TRADEMARK OF CLARIANT. [1] SVHC-free according to Article 31 of the REACH Regulation as it contains less than 0.1% melamine.

A new, safer solution with exceptional fire performance: Clariant’s Exolit™ AP 422 A

Fri, 5 Jun 2026 07:15:00 GMT

MUTTENZ, June 5, 2026 - Clariant launched it’s next-generation SVHC-free[1] flame retardant, a safer solution that provides superior fire resistance and meets the stringent demands of modern industries. In 2023, melamine was classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) making Exolit AP 422 A a valuable asset for the firestop industry, enabling the creation of coating and sealant products that maintain high performance standards while being SVHC-free. In anticipation of the current and future regulatory challenges around melamine, Clariant has been proactively working on this innovative solution for several years, developing an SVHC-free alternative to the existing Exolit AP 422 flame retardant. “Exolit AP 422 A upholds the trusted reliability that Exolit products are recognized for in the market and ensures that our clients’ fire protection offerings remain competitive, particularly in terms of chemical compliance. It allows manufacturers to adapt to evolving legislation while preserving the effectiveness of their fire safety solutions,” said Sebastian Moschel, Clariant’s Technical Business Development Manager Passive Fire Protection. The new Exolit AP 422 A addresses the concerns surrounding melamine as a Substance of Very High Concern at the same time as providing superior fire resistance across multiple applications including intumescent coatings, firestop sealing systems, and PIR insulation panels. Its non-halogenated nature helps minimize hazardous emissions, providing safer usage in critical industries. Customers that have already incorporated Exolit AP 422 A into their firestop products describe the new SVHC-free flame retardant as a significant step forward, as it provides reliable fire protection performance at the same time as aligning with sustainability commitments. One client commented on their new competitive edge in the market, by being able to offer safer, more environmentally friendly solutions to customers. Flame retardants are found in many applications around us, including electronic devices; transportation systems and buildings. As e-mobility expands, they provide safer protection for everything from charging points to circuit breakers. With evolving chemical regulations like REACH, Exolit AP 422 A provides manufacturers a solution designed to create more sustainable, superior and fully compliant flame-retardant formulations, ensuring reliability and trust. Exolit™ IS A TRADEMARK OF CLARIANT. [1] SVHC-free according to Article 31 of the REACH Regulation as it contains less than 0.1% melamine.

Closing the loop: How Clariant is enabling circular plastic

Wed, 3 Jun 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Séval Schichtel, Sales and Business Development Manager, Ethylene, and Sebastian Lars Löscher, Business Development Manager, Purification, recently sat down with Kristina Morgan, Global Marketing Manager, Petrochemicals, at Clariant, to discuss how we’re enabling a circular economy where plastics are continuously reused rather than ending up in landfills, incinerators, or the environment. This interview explains how Clariant enables the chemical recycling process through its complementary portfolio of adsorbents and hydrogenation catalysts. These technologies work seamlessly together to valorize challenging plastic waste streams, including mixed and contaminated materials, transforming them into virgin-quality feedstocks that integrate directly into existing petrochemical plants, closing the loop and enabling a truly circular plastics economy. MUTTENZ, JUNE 3, 2026

Welcome, Séval and Sebastian. Thank you for taking the time to talk to me about today’s topic: Circularity and Plastics Recycling. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do here at Clariant. To start off, can you explain in simple terms why plastic waste has become such a critical environmental issue today?

Séval: Plastic waste has become one of our most pressing environmental challenges because of the sheer volume we produce and how long it persists in the environment. Globally, we produce over 400 million tons of plastic annually, with approximately half designed for single-use purposes. When these plastics can't be recycled effectively, they end up in landfills where they can take hundreds of years to break down, or worse, they're incinerated, releasing greenhouse gases. Currently, only about 9% of all plastic ever produced has been recycled, while an estimated 8-10 million tons enter our oceans each year. Sebastian: The real issue is that we've been operating in a linear economy – we make, use, and dispose – rather than a circular one where materials are continuously reused. Transitioning to better recycling and circular practices could significantly reduce CO2 emissions; recycling plastic saves at least 50% of carbon emissions compared to virgin production, with some studies showing savings of 70-80%. If plastics are not recycled, we need to explore for more fossil-based oil – which increases emissions; but, if we keep the plastic in the loop, we can reduce the exploration of oil and reduce the overall CO2 impact. Furthermore, while recycling is essential, the direct reduction of plastic production and consumption stands as a critical second pillar in the fight against environmental pollution, as preventing waste at the source is the most effective way to eliminate its ecological footprint. Why is plastics recycling so much more difficult than, say, recycling glass or aluminum?

Séval: Recycling glass and aluminum is relatively straightforward because they are elemental materials that can be melted and reformed indefinitely without losing quality. In contrast, plastics are a diverse family of polymers, each with unique chemical structures, melting points, and additives that make them difficult to process together. When different plastic types are mixed or contaminated with food residue and adhesives, the resulting material is often brittle and unusable for high-grade products. Additionally, each time you mechanically recycle plastic, it can degrade in quality, which limits how many times it can be recycled. It's like trying to unscramble an egg – once different plastics are mixed and contaminated, separating them becomes extremely challenging. What happens to mixed plastic waste that can't be mechanically recycled? Where does it typically end up?

Sebastian: When mixed plastic waste exceeds the capabilities of mechanical recycling, often due to multi-layer compositions or heavy contamination, it is typically diverted into a "leakage" or "end-of-life" stream. The most common destination is waste-to-energy incineration. While this process prevents plastics from lingering in the landscape and generates usable electricity or heat, it fundamentally transforms the material into CO2 and other atmospheric emissions, effectively "linearizing" the carbon. Alternatively, these plastics end up in landfills, where their high molecular stability ensures they persist for centuries as a dormant environmental burden. From a resource perspective, this represents a significant loss of embedded energy. Plastics are essentially "solid oil," derived from fossil fuel feedstocks; when we incinerate or bury them, we discard both the physical material and the immense caloric energy used in their original synthesis. This inefficiency is the primary driver behind the development of advanced or chemical recycling, which aims at closing the loop where mechanical methods fail. Tell me more about chemical recycling – can you explain what that means in everyday language? How is it different from traditional recycling?

Séval: To understand the difference between these two methods, imagine mechanical recycling as shredding and reforming: you are physically breaking the plastic into flakes and melting them to create something new, but the underlying molecular chains remain the same (and grow weaker with each cycle). Chemical recycling, often called advanced recycling, is more akin to molecular deconstruction. It breaks the plastic down to its original chemical building blocks, allowing us to "reset" the material to its virgin state. The most common method used is pyrolysis, a process that subjects mixed plastic waste to high heat in the absence of oxygen. This breaks the polymers down into a liquid known as pyrolysis oil (or "pyoil"). This oil serves as a secondary feedstock that can be purified and re-introduced at the very beginning of the plastic production chain. The primary advantage here is twofold: first, it can process complex, contaminated, or multi-layered plastics that mechanical systems reject; and second, the resulting plastic is chemically identical to "new" fossil-based plastic. This allows for infinite loops without the loss of quality typically seen in traditional recycling. What are the main technical hurdles that have prevented the plastics industry from achieving true circularity until now?

Sebastian: Historically, true circularity has been hindered by two primary technical barriers. First is the "chemical cocktail" inherent in mixed plastic waste; this volatile mix of polymers and contaminants - such as chlorine and nitrogen - varies with every batch, often jeopardizing equipment integrity and product quality. Maintaining a stable output from such unpredictable feedstock remains a significant engineering challenge. Second is the difficulty of achieving industrial-scale consistency that meets the petrochemical sector’s rigorous specifications. Earlier processes were often energy-intensive, costly, and produced unacceptable qualities. Only recent advancements in catalytic and sorptive technologies have made it possible to refine these complex waste streams into high-purity feedstocks efficiently, finally allowing chemical recycling to meet the stringent requirements necessary for closing the loop at scale. What does Clariant offer to support the plastic recycling industry lift off?

Sebastian: Imagine our offering like a layered defense against unwanted impurities: In the first stage, mineral based catalysts of the Clarit™ Pyrolyze series help the pyrolytic process to obtain a better pyrolysis oil with reduced impurities. Following, Clarit Protect adsorbents work like the second layer, they capture and remove larger particulates and contaminants from the pyrolysis oil, similar to how a filter removes sediment from water. We call them Clarit Protect since they're particularly good at protecting the life of the downstream refinery assets by taking out impurities that would otherwise clog or damage it. Séval: The final and most throughout layer of defense are our HDMax™ catalysts, which act like a specialized filter that doesn't just remove impurities but actually transforms problematic molecules into harmless ones: It facilitates chemical reactions that convert contaminants like chlorine compounds, nitrogen compounds, and unstable molecules into forms that can be safely removed or that meet quality specifications. Together, they clean up the pyrolysis oil so thoroughly that it becomes compatible with existing petrochemical plants – what we call "cracker-compatible" feedstock. What is the sustainability advantage of using Clarit Pyrolyze and Clarit Protect compared to other options?

Sebastian: Think of Clarit Pyrolyze as the "intelligence" inside the pyrolysis oven. While many processes still rely on raw, blunt heat to melt and break down plastic, Clarit Pyrolyze works at a molecular level to ensure the resulting oil is high-quality and contains fewer impurities from the start. This makes the process overall more economic and sustainable. Clarit Protect Adsorbents then steps in as the essential secondary purification phase. It’s a specialized adsorbent series designed to strip away another bulk of the contaminants, ensuring the oil is stable and clean enough for safe transport. For plant operators, this is a major strategic win: it provides a low-CAPEX way to hit strict purity standards while acting as a vital buffer to smooth out the inevitable fluctuations in waste quality. For the industry this allows to have smaller, decentralized plastic pyrolysis plants, close to where the waste accumulates. What makes Clariant's multi-stage hydrogenation process more efficient than alternative methods that require three to four reactors?

Séval: This is one of the key innovations that make our technology commercially viable. Some alternative technologies need three to four separate reactors to achieve the same level of purification that our HDMax catalysts deliver in a single step. Think about what that means practically: fewer reactors mean significantly lower capital investment – you're building less equipment. It means reduced operational complexity – less equipment to monitor and maintain. It means lower energy consumption – you're not heating and cooling materials multiple times. And it means a smaller physical footprint for the facility. Additionally, our technology enables subsequent hydrocracking to produce naphtha-like hydrocarbon fractions, giving producers even more flexibility in their product output. This efficiency is crucial for making chemical recycling economically competitive with virgin plastic production, which is essential for widespread adoption. If someone reading this blog wants to support the transition to a circular plastics economy, what can they do?

Séval: First, continue recycling diligently – sort your plastics properly and keep them clean. This helps mechanical recycling work efficiently for the materials it handles best. Second, support brands and companies that are investing in recycled content and circular solutions. Consumer demand drives corporate action, so when you choose products made with recycled materials, you're sending a powerful market signal. Third, stay informed and advocate for policies that support circular-economy infrastructure. We need investments in both mechanical and chemical recycling facilities, and supportive regulatory frameworks. The transition to a circular plastics economy is happening, and everyone has a role to play – from individual consumers to global corporations. Together, we can close the loop. Learn more about efficient plastics recycling with Clariant Catalysts and Adsorbents. ^{™ ARE TRADEMARKS OF CLARIANT.}

Mondi introduces re/loop FlowWrap with 35% post-consumer recycled content for wet wipes packaging

Tue, 2 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

2 June 2026 – Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, has launched re/loop FlowWrap for wet wipes packaging, helping customers in the home and personal care industry transition to more sustainable polymer-based packaging. Re/loop FlowWrap is a form-fill-and-seal solution (FFS) made from mono-polypropylene (PP) that replaces non-recyclable laminates for applications requiring a customisable barrier, such as baby care, cosmetics, and household wipes. It is compatible with polypropylene (PP) mechanical recycling according to the CEFLEX D4ACE guidelines and contains 35% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. Extensive internal testing and customer trials demonstrated performance comparable to virgin-based alternatives, including reliable sealing, barrier protection and smooth machinability for wet wipes applications. The solution is compatible with existing packaging lines, enabling a straightforward switch to re/loop FlowWrap. From 1 January 2030, the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) sets a target of 35% recycled content from post-consumer plastic waste for this category of plastic packaging. With 35% recycled content, Mondi’s innovative solution is well-positioned to support future compliance with this target and help brands and converters meet sustainability requirements while maintaining product protection and line efficiency. External trials on IMA Ilapak equipment confirmed strong runnability at very high line speeds for wet wipes packaging. Industry professionals had an early opportunity to see the new material at the INDEX fair from 19 to 22 May this year, where Mondi and IMA Ilapak showcased re/loop FlowWrap operating live on packaging machinery. The trials highlight Mondi’s focus on material innovation and collaboration with machine partners and customers. For years, Mondi has helped customers advance their sustainability goals by integrating post-consumer recycled content into packaging solutions as market needs and regulations evolve. “With this launch, we show that wet wipes packaging can move towards circularity without sacrificing performance,” said Alessandro D’Agostino, Business Development Manager Home and Personal Care, Mondi Consumer Flexibles. “By combining a material designed for recycling with PCR content and excellent machinability, we help customers transition faster towards sustainable packaging solutions while maintaining operational efficiency.”

Mondi strengthens corrugated solutions operations in Germany through targeted site upgrades

Mon, 1 Jun 2026 12:30:00 GMT

1 June 2026 – Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, is strengthening its corrugated solutions operations in Germany through targeted upgrades at its plants in Greven, North Rhine-Westphalia, and Ebersdorf near Coburg, Bavaria. The measures focus on enhancing operational performance, aligning both sites with Mondi’s global safety standards and reinforcing their long-term competitiveness, while creating added value for customers and employees. At both sites, Mondi has implemented production-related upgrades aimed at improving efficiency, quality and reliability. These include enhancements to existing production equipment and the optimisation of internal processes. At the Ebersdorf plant, the continued development of pallet-free production plays a key role, reducing handling steps, improving product quality consistency and supporting more resource-efficient operations. In Greven, increased automation further stabilises processes, reduces waste and strengthens overall product quality. In addition, Mondi has established a dedicated onsite sales team at the Greven plant, enabling closer customer collaboration, faster response times and more tailored packaging solutions. Health and safety remains a clear priority at both locations. Mondi has aligned safety standards at the Greven and Ebersdorf plants with its global benchmarks through improvements to the working environment and dedicated safety training programmes. These measures reinforce safety as a fundamental part of daily operations and contribute to stable, reliable performance. “Together, the upgrades at Greven and Ebersdorf strengthen our ability to deliver consistently high product quality, reliable delivery performance and more sustainable production processes for our customers. At the same time, they reinforce Mondi’s corrugated solutions footprint in Germany and support long-term, reliable partnerships with our customers,” says Paulus Goëss, COO Corrugated Solutions at Mondi. Mondi has integrated the Greven and Ebersdorf plants following the acquisition of Schumacher Packaging´s Western European assets, strengthening its footprint in Germany. Since the acquisition, Mondi has systematically embedded its operational excellence approach and global health and safety standards across both plants, further enhancing performance, consistency and reliability while unlocking additional potential for long-term value creation.

Clariant secures FDA approval for bio-based Licocare™ RBW additives in rigid PVC food-contact applications

Thu, 28 May 2026 07:15:00 GMT

MUTTENZ, May 28, 2026 - Clariant has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its bio-based Licocare RBW wax additives for use in rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) food-contact applications. The authorization, effective May 7, 2026, extends the company's existing FDA approval beyond polyester materials to include rigid PVC. The approval covers the complete Licocare RBW product range, including the RBW 100 series, RBW 300 series, and the grades Licocare RBW 360 Vita and RBW 560 Vita. The additives are authorized for use as processing aids, lubricants, release agents, and slip additives in single- and repeat-use rigid PVC applications across all food types, except for infant formula and human milk contact. For direct food-contact applications, the additives are approved at levels up to 0.5% by weight under conditions of use C through H, with a temperature maximum of 80°C for hot-fill applications. Clariant has also received an Opinion Letter of No Objection (LONO) for repeated use up to 1% concentration in food-contact articles for food processing equipment made of rigid PVC. The dual authorization enables use across multiple applications, including rigid PVC containers, packaging materials, and food processing equipment components such as conveyor belts, cutting boards, storage containers, seals, and gaskets. The different concentration levels allow formulators to adjust specifications based on their specific application requirements while maintaining regulatory compliance. The FDA approval adds to Clariant's existing regulatory authorizations for the Licocare RBW portfolio. In February 2026, the EU Commission published authorization based on EFSA's positive opinion for the same product line in PET, PLA, and rigid PVC materials. The company also holds authorization from the Japanese food safety authority. This combination of approvals provides manufacturers with regulatory compliance across major international markets. "Achieving FDA approval for our Licocare RBW additives in rigid PVC applications demonstrates Clariant's commitment to delivering sustainable solutions that meet the highest regulatory standards across multiple jurisdictions," said Diederik Goyvaerts, Market Manager, Additives at Clariant. "This authorization represents years of dedicated work and opens significant opportunities for manufacturers to transition to renewable alternatives while maintaining full compliance with food safety regulations in both North American and European markets." Licocare RBW additives are derived from rice bran wax and provide a renewable alternative with substantial carbon footprint reductions compared to conventional fossil-based montan waxes. The industry has experienced supply constraints with montan wax, which is extracted from lignite coal deposits in Germany that are actively depleting. This has resulted in supply disruptions and price increases for manufacturers. The rice bran wax additives provide processing benefits including lubrication, mold release, nucleation effects, and enhanced dispersion properties. The products are biodegradable and industrially compostable, which supports end-of-life sustainability requirements for packaging materials. The production process avoids the landscape disruption and biodiversity impact associated with lignite mining. The FDA approval for rigid PVC follows Clariant's approach of securing regulatory authorizations across different materials and regions. With approvals now covering FDA, EFSA, and Japanese authorities, the company has established regulatory compliance for its bio-based Licocare RBW portfolio in key global markets. This provides manufacturers with the regulatory framework needed to implement renewable alternatives in their food-contact application. Licocare™ IS A TRADEMARK OF CLARIANT.

Mondi baut Wettbewerbsfähigkeit und Kundennutzen am Standort Ebersdorf aus

Wed, 27 May 2026 10:40:00 GMT

27. Mai 2026 – Mondi, ein weltweit führender Hersteller nachhaltiger Verpackungs- und Papierlösungen, entwickelt seinen hochmodernen Standort für Wellpappenlösungen in Ebersdorf bei Coburg konsequent weiter. Gezielte Modernisierungen am Maschinenpark und damit verbundene effizientere Produktionsabläufe stärken die Leistungsfähigkeit, richten den Standort konsequent an den globalen Standards von Mondi aus und sichern langfristig die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit. Davon profitieren Kunden ebenso wie Mitarbeitende. Zu den zentralen Projekten gehört der Ausbau der palettenfreien Produktion. Sie verbessert den Materialfluss im Produktionsprozess, sichert eine konstant hohe Produktqualität und unterstützt ressourcenschonende Abläufe. Parallel dazu hebt Mondi die Gesundheits- und Sicherheitsstandards am Standort auf das globale Niveau des Unternehmens an. Verbesserungen im Arbeitsumfeld sowie gezielte Schulungsprogramme stärken das Sicherheitsbewusstsein und fördern stabile Arbeitsabläufe im Betriebsalltag. Ergänzt werden die Maßnahmen durch neu gestaltete Arbeits- und Sozialbereiche sowie moderne Informationsterminals. Diese erleichtern den Informationsaustausch, beschleunigen Abstimmungsprozesse und fördern die Zusammenarbeit zwischen den Teams. Durch die Maßnahmen profitieren Kunden von einer konstant hohen Produkt- und Lieferqualität und noch nachhaltiger produzierten Verpackungslösungen. „Mit den gezielten Investitionen in unsere Produktionsprozesse, das Arbeitsumfeld und unsere Sicherheitsstandards stärken wir den Standort Ebersdorf nachhaltig – operativ und als Arbeitgeber. Damit bieten wir unseren Kunden langfristig hochwertige und nachhaltige Wellpappenlösungen und schaffen gleichzeitig ein attraktives Arbeitsumfeld für unsere Mitarbeitenden“, sagt Markus Skiba, Geschäftsführer von Mondi Ebersdorf. Mondi hat den Produktionsstandort Ebersdorf im Jahr 2025 im Rahmen der Akquisition des westeuropäischen Geschäfts von Schumacher Packaging übernommen. Das Werk zählt zu den größten Verarbeitungsstandorten für Wellpappenverpackungen in Europa und investiert kontinuierlich in moderne Technologien, um die Effizienz zu steigern und seinen Kunden qualitativ hochwertige Produkte zu liefern. Bereits im letzten Jahr wurden die digitalen Druckkapazitäten erweitert: Durch die Ergänzung der Sechsfarben-Drucktechnologie um digitales Weiß können in Ebersdorf nun auch auf braunen Oberflächen brillante, mehrfarbige Druckbilder realisiert werden – das ist derzeit einzigartig in Deutschland. Mondi entwickelt und fertigt in Ebersdorf maßgeschneiderte Verpackungslösungen für zahlreiche Branchen wie eCommerce, Lebensmittel und Getränke, Möbel, Industrie und Logistik und bietet innovative, rein papierbasierte Alternativen zu Kunststoffverpackungen, die Kunden bei der Erreichung ihrer Nachhaltigkeitsziele unterstützen.

Mondi verbessert den Kundenservice und stärkt Wettbewerbsfähigkeit am Standort Greven

Wed, 27 May 2026 10:30:00 GMT

27. Mai 2026 – Mondi, ein weltweit führender Hersteller nachhaltiger Verpackungs- und Papierlösungen, entwickelt sein Kundenangebot am Wellpappenstandort in Greven, Nordrhein-Westfalen, gezielt weiter. Seit der Übernahme des Werks im Zuge der Akquisition des westeuropäischen Verpackungsgeschäfts von Schumacher Packaging investiert Mondi kontinuierlich in die Weiterentwicklung des Standorts und stärkt damit nachhaltig dessen langfristige Wettbewerbsfähigkeit. Am Standort wird ein neues Vertriebsteam angesiedelt, was die Zusammenarbeit zwischen Kundenservice, Entwicklung und Produktion verbessert. Dadurch werden Abstimmungsprozesse beschleunigt, Reaktionszeiten verkürzt und Kundenprojekte können effizienter umgesetzt werden. Zusätzlich investiert Mondi in neue Automatisierungslösungen in der Produktion. Diese erhöhen die Prozessstabilität, reduzieren Materialverluste und unterstützen eine konstant hohe Produktqualität. Auch Sicherheit und Arbeitsumfeld bleiben zentrale Themen am Standort. Laufende Verbesserungen stellen das Wohlbefinden der Mitarbeitenden in den Mittelpunkt, richten die Sicherheitsstandards konsequent an den hohen Anforderungen von Mondi aus und tragen zu stabilen Produktionsabläufen bei. Die Maßnahmen schaffen spürbare Vorteile für Kunden und stärken zugleich die Attraktivität des Standorts als Arbeitgeber. „Unsere Investitionen in Greven sind ein klares Bekenntnis zu unseren Kunden und unseren Mitarbeitenden“, sagt Charles Humblet, Geschäftsführer von Mondi Greven. „Durch die enge Verzahnung von Vertrieb und Produktion, weitere Automatisierung und hohe Sicherheitsstandards stärken wir unseren Kundenservice und schaffen gleichzeitig ein modernes und attraktives Arbeitsumfeld. So können wir gemeinsam mit unseren Kunden nachhaltige und leistungsstarke Verpackungslösungen entwickeln.“ Greven zählt zu den größten Produktionsstandorten für Wellpappenverpackungen in Europa. Das Werk produziert nachhaltige Verpackungslösungen für Branchen wie eCommerce, FMCG (Produkte des täglichen Bedarfs), Haushaltsgeräte, Möbel sowie Logistik und Transport. Der Standort ist auf gestanzte und geklebte Verpackungslösungen, Faltschachteln, Endloswellpappe (Fanfold) sowie Lösungen mit ein- und doppelseitigen Selbstklebeverschlüssen spezialisiert. Moderne Flexodruck- und Digitaldrucktechnologien ermöglichen sowohl effiziente Druckauflagen in hohen Stückzahlen als auch individuell angepasste Lösungen mit hoher Druckqualität.

From AI-driven shopping to real-world delivery: Mondi research shows packaging drives customer loyalty in a digital world

Wed, 27 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT

27 May 2026 – Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, has released its annual eCommerce trend report 2026 (a whitepaper combining findings of an online survey as well as expert interviews), revealing a shift in online shopping. The report is based on insights from 6,000 consumers across Europe and Türkiye[1], and it shows that while artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how consumers buy, packaging is increasingly impacting whether they buy again. It further highlights how rapidly evolving digital behaviour is placing new demands on physical packaging. Reflecting this year’s theme of innovation at the centre of retail and packaging demands, the report also brings together expert perspectives from across the eCommerce ecosystem. In addition to Mondi’s own innovation expertise, contributions from leading automation machine providers offer insights into how packaging is evolving alongside fulfilment technologies to support efficiency, scalability and sustainability. Consumers expectations towards eCommerce packaging Six in ten shoppers now use AI tools during their shopping journey, with more than half willing to let AI make purchasing decisions on their behalf. Despite this digital transformation, packaging remains a critical driver of customer satisfaction, brand perception and even consumer loyalty. The survey’s findings show that product protection remains a non-negotiable expectation towards eCommerce packaging, with 98% of consumers ranking it as their top priority, while 86% expect packaging to be sustainable. At the same time, two-thirds say packaging directly influences the unboxing experience and encourages repeat purchases, reinforcing its role far beyond a functional requirement. Retailers have a clear opportunity to strengthen customer loyalty through smart packaging choices. The survey shows that more than seven in ten consumers would avoid oversized packaging, underlining the value of right-sized, fit-for-purpose solutions that enhance the customer experience while reducing waste. “AI is fundamentally reshaping how consumers discover and purchase products, but the physical experience still matters as much as ever,” says Armand Schoonbrood, COO Mondi Group eCommerce. “Our research shows that packaging in eCommerce is a strategic driver of customer experience, operational efficiency and sustainability performance. Retailers that align these elements will be best positioned to succeed in an increasingly complex eCommerce environment.” Ian Jindal, Chief Editor and Co-Founder at RetailX, adds: “This year’s research highlights a clear and sustained shift in eCommerce. While AI is impacting the online customer journey, expectations of the physical delivery experience continue to rise in parallel. Compared with previous years, the role of packaging has strengthened further. Our findings suggest that this is not a short-term trend, but a long-term shift in how consumers evaluate online retailers.” The persistent rise of sustainability expectations towards eCommerce packaging Sustainability expectations continue to rise, with consumers increasingly recognising improvements such as reduced material use and greater recyclability of the packaging their online order arrives in. With four in ten noticing the top three sustainability efforts of right-sized packaging (41%), more recycled materials (39%) and less packaging overall (37%). At the same time, the findings highlight an opportunity for retailers to further strengthen trust in data-driven packaging approaches. The report also points to a gap between intention and behaviour, particularly when it comes to recycling, with interesting splits between the generations. This creates an opportunity for retailers and brands to support consumers with clearer communication and more intuitive packaging design, helping to make sustainable choices easier in everyday use. In line with its focus on innovation, the report underscores how collaboration across the value chain - from material suppliers to automation partners - will be key to shaping the future of eCommerce packaging and meeting the growing expectations of both consumers and regulators. The full report can be downloaded here. ^{[1] The survey was conducted online in January 2026, surveying 1,000 consumers in each of France, Germany, Poland, Sweden, Türkiye, and, for the first time, the UK.}

Clariant's FAMAX™ catalysts deliver outstanding performance at two Yihua formaldehyde plants in China

Wed, 27 May 2026 07:00:00 GMT

MUTTENZ, May 27, 2026 - Clariant, a sustainability-focused specialty chemical company, today announced the successful operation of its FAMAX formaldehyde catalysts at two world-scale production facilities operated by Yihua Group in China. The advanced catalyst technology, integrated with process technology from engineering partner Wuxi Xiyuan Engineering Technology Co., Ltd., is delivering exceptional performance at both the major 100 kt/a formaldehyde plant in Inner Mongolia and the 120 kt/a formaldehyde plant in Hubei province. The Inner Mongolia facility successfully started up in March 2026, while the Hubei unit was commissioned in November 2025. Both large-scale iron-molybdenum formaldehyde plants supply high-quality feedstock to downstream the world-scale pentaerythritol production units, reinforcing Yihua Group's position as a leading global pentaerythritol producer. Clariant's FAMAX catalysts enable both facilities to achieve superior operational efficiency through significantly reduced energy consumption, higher plant productivity, and improved product quality. The catalyst's innovative design delivers 10-15% reduced pressure drop, while the advanced chemical composition improves low temperature activity, resulting in higher formaldehyde yields and extended catalyst lifetime. "We are extremely satisfied with the outstanding performance of Clariant's FAMAX catalysts and Wuxi Xiyuan’s technology at both our major facilities," said Lulu Zhuï¼ŒProject Manager from Yihua Group. "The technology has enabled us to achieve our ambitious production targets efficiently while maintaining high-quality formaldehyde feedstock essential for our pentaerythritol manufacturing. This highly successful collaboration strengthens our confidence in continuing to work with Clariant and Wuxi Xiyuan for future world-scale projects." Nora Schiefenhoevel, Vice President and Head of Clariant Specialty Catalysts, commented: "These two major projects with Yihua Group demonstrate the proven value of our FAMAX catalyst technology in formaldehyde production. We are proud to support Yihua's strategic growth as a leading global pentaerythritol producer. Our continued partnership with Wuxi Xiyuan exemplifies how integrated technology solutions create exceptional value for China's mega-projects." Clariant's FAMAX catalysts are designed specifically for iron-molybdenum formaldehyde production. The catalyst's special shape design reduces pressure drop and enables potential capital cost reduction through optimized reactor configurations. The advanced chemical composition provides improved low temperature activity, allowing operation at reduced cooling medium temperatures while maintaining lower hotspot temperatures. This contributes to higher reaction selectivity and reduced by-product formation, supporting improved formaldehyde quality. Building on decades of experience in formaldehyde catalyst technology, Clariant continues to advance iron-molybdenum based formaldehyde production throughout the region. Clariant’s high-performance EnviCat™ emission control catalyst was also selected for the off-gas treatment of the two formaldehyde plants. The catalyst effectively removes harmful VOCs with an exceptional conversion efficiency of up to 99% and even beyond, while operating up to 400°C low temperatures. This greatly reduces fuel consumption and stress on equipment, resulting in significant economic, operational and safety advantages for producers. Learn more about Clariant’s FAMAX catalysts and EnviCat emission control catalysts. ^{™ ARE TRADEMARKS OF CLARIANT.}

Clariant catalysts continue to shrink customer footprints: 45M tons of CO2e avoided in 2025

Tue, 26 May 2026 07:15:00 GMT

MUTTENZ, May 26, 2026 - Clariant, a sustainability-focused specialty chemical company, today announced that its catalysts had enabled significantly higher emission reductions in 2025 compared to the previous year. Avoided greenhouse gas emissions amounted to 45 million tons of CO2e, 5 million tons higher than in 2024. The emission reductions[1] were made possible by the company's innovative technologies, such as reforming catalysts for producing direct reduced iron (DRI) and nitrous oxide abatement catalysts for nitric acid plants, as well as syngas catalysts for producing green methanol either through electrolytic hydrogen from renewable electricity or from bio-feedstocks[2]. Additionally, Clariant's catalysts for refinery off-gas purification contributed to these avoided emissions, helping refineries and crude-to-chemical complexes reduce their environmental footprint. The DRI process, as one example, has only half of the CO2 intensity compared to conventional steel production[3]. Jens Cuntze, President of Clariant Catalysts, commented, "Enabling a cleaner, more sustainable future remains one of our core focus areas as we support complex-to-abate industries through continuous innovation. Our sustainability efforts cover the full value chain—from reducing our own direct and indirect emissions to creating solutions that help our customers lower theirs.” Richard Haldimann, Chief Strategy & Technology Officer at Clariant, added, “Ambitious climate goals can be greatly accelerated through collaborations with producers and industry partners. The success of these low carbon processes is based on leading edge technology allowing for economically attractive CO2 savings.” While the majority of carbon savings come from established industrial processes, novel and unconventional applications are gaining increasing attention. Last year marked a significant milestone with the successful startup of two lighthouse green methanol projects: European Energy's e-methanol plant, which converts biogenic CO2 and green hydrogen using our MegaMax™ catalysts, and Shanghai Electric's bio-methanol facility that uses farm waste to produce methanol, both demonstrating the commercial viability of sustainable methanol production at scale. As frontrunners in this transformation, Clariant's catalysts are already enabling the production of greener chemicals today, paving the way for a lower-carbon future. Green methanol is one of the many carbon-neutral technologies Clariant supports. In line with their philosophy of “Greater chemistry – between people and planet,” the company is committed to accelerating the energy transition by transforming its product portfolio and operations to solve global challenges. Through continuous investment in catalyst solutions, Clariant strives to advance decarbonization in the chemical and fuel industries. Learn more about Clariant’s catalysts. MegaMax™ IS A TRADEMARK OF CLARIANT. [1] The methodology used by Clariant to calculate carbon reductions achieved by its customers is based on internationally recognized standards. [2] Clariant calculates the emission savings per ton of product produced (DRI iron, methanol, HNO, etc.) relative to the benchmark processes and multiplies this by the annual production tonnage that the catalysts supported in 2025. The benchmark processes are: conventional steel production using the Blast Furnace-Basic Oxygen Furnace (BF-BOF) route; conventional syngas processes through steam methane reforming without carbon capture; and nitric acid production without catalytic NO abatement. [3] Mission Possible Partnership, Net-Zero Steel Sector Transition Strategy, 2022.

Belden’s 2025 Sustainability Report Marks Major Progress and Raises the Bar

Wed, 20 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Venlo, The Netherlands – May 20, 2026 – Belden Inc. (NYSE: BDC), a leading global provider of complete connection solutions, is proud to release its 2025 Sustainability Report: Connecting What Matters Most. The report highlights the company’s significant strides toward meeting its environmental, social and governance goals. Belden first defined its sustainability goals in 2021, setting 12 clear objectives to be achieved by the end of 2025. This year’s report marks the successful conclusion of the company’s first set of four-year goals, including these milestones: 49% reduction of scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions compared to our 2019 baseline, far exceeding the goal of 25%. 45% of electricity consumption comes from renewable sources, far exceeding the goal of 15% and highlighting Belden’s dedication to more sustainable and responsible operations. Belden is certified as a Great Place to Work® in 20 countries, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to creating a positive culture and leading with transparent and ethical practices. Over 99% of employees have attested to Belden’s Code of Conduct, showing dedication to upholding ethics and responsibility all through our operations. 65% of employees participate in Belden’s Be Well program, which promotes physical, financial, social and emotional wellness. “Our sustainability progress is powered by the commitment and passion of our employees,” says Brian Anderson, Executive Vice President – Chief Legal and Risk Officer, who leads Belden’s sustainability program. “Their dedication has been essential to turning our ambitions into measurable results. Together, we’ve successfully delivered our first set of four-year milestones, and we’re building on that momentum by setting even bolder goals for the future. We’re excited to raise the bar on what we can achieve and to accelerate the impact of our sustainability efforts.” In addition to these accomplishments, the 2025 report also outlines Belden’s next set of goals for 2030. These new goals reflect Belden’s continued dedication to sustainability: Reducing scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 70%, compared to our 2019 baseline. Completing lifecycle assessments for 100% of Belden product families as a baseline for potential environmental product declarations. Achieving an 80% engagement score on the Great Places to Work survey. Earning ISO 14001 certification for 100% of Belden’s manufacturing footprint. While Belden has always prioritized ethical and responsible operations, establishing a formal sustainability program has allowed the company to prioritize making a more substantial positive impact on the environment, employees, customers and communities. To learn more about Belden’s sustainability initiatives and how they play a role in creating a more connected, responsible and sustainable world, visit belden.com/resources/sustainability.

Syensqo NYSCC 2026 press kit

Tue, 19 May 2026 09:00:00 GMT

At NYSCC 2026, Syensqo (previously part of Solvay Group) will be unveiling new hair and skin care solutions, including an advanced biotech peptide and a novel ceramide delivery technology.

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Mondi delivers massive savings on protective packaging for Ovoko’s car bumper

Mon, 18 May 2026 10:25:00 GMT

18 May 2026 – Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, has partnered with Ovoko, a leading online marketplace for car parts, to co-create packaging tailored to the demands of its eCommerce supply chain. eCommerce is often associated with small parcels and lightweight products. Yet companies selling automotive spare parts online require specialised packaging solutions for large and fragile components. Ovoko approached Mondi to solve the challenge of shipping car bumpers. The previous packaging was costly and offered insufficient protection, leading to product damage and additional operational effort. Mondi adapted a proven heavy-duty solution from its automotive portfolio, precisely shaping the packaging to the bumper’s geometry. This eliminates empty space and reduces material use. The result: a 42% reduction in unit packaging costs, improved operational efficiency and more responsible material use. Following successful testing under real-life conditions, the solution was approved and the first trial order delivered within two weeks. “Sometimes the best solution is the simplest one. By adapting a proven packaging concept, we were able to quickly deliver a reliable and cost-efficient corrugated packaging solution that met Ovoko’s needs,” Dmitrijus Curkinas, Regional Sales Manager, Mondi Poland. Following successful testing under real-life conditions, the solution was approved and the first trial order delivered within two weeks. "At Ovoko, we needed packaging that was simple to assemble, cost-effective, and tough enough to protect everything we ship. Mondi listened carefully to our needs and proposed a solution that allowed us to reduce packaging costs while improving product protection.” Agnius Skudutis, Packaging Project Manager from Ovoko. “In eCommerce, it is not only the speed of delivery that matters, but the safety of the product throughout the logistics chain. For large and demanding items such as car bumpers, well-designed packaging ensures the product reaches the customer in perfect condition and helps build lasting customer trust,” adds Dawid GalusiÅ„ksi, eCommerce Sales Manager, Mondi Group. This project demonstrates that eCommerce packaging goes far beyond small parcels. By combining automotive packaging expertise with eCommerce know-how, Mondi develops solutions that protect products effectively while optimising costs - regardless of size or complexity. If you would like to see a complete portfolio of eCommerce packaging, visit eCommerce packaging | Products and solutions | Mondi Group.

SONGWON delivers strong Q1/2026 financial results

Wed, 13 May 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Ulsan, South Korea – May 13, 2026 – SONGWON Industrial Group (www.songwon.com) today released its financial results for the 1st quarter of 2026. After a challenging 2025, SONGWON started the new year strongly, with higher revenues compared to the previous quarter and improved profitability. In Q1/2026, SONGWON Industrial Group achieved consolidated sales of 269,204 million KRW and reported a 272.5% year-on-year increase in net profit to 18,091 million KRW, partly due to a one-off adjustment to the employee benefit program. Compared to the same period of the previous year, gross profit increased 35.9% to 55,362 million KRW in Q1/2026 and the gross profit margin rose from 14.8% to 20.6%. Q1
In Million KRW
2026
2025
âˆ†%
Sales 269’204
275’753
-2.4% Gross profit 55’362
40’743
-35.9% Gross profit margin
20.6%
14.8% Operating profit 26’558
10’937
142.8% EBITDA 37’611
21’957
71.3% EBITDA margin
14.0% 8.0% EBIT 26’731
11’543
131.6% EBIT margin
9.9% 4.2%
Profit for the period 18’091
4’857
272.5%
SONGWON delivered a solid performance in Q1/2026, achieving strong earnings growth against a backdrop of a complex macroeconomic environment and ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting global markets. In the 1st quarter of 2026, Division Industrial Chemicals recorded consolidated sales of 191,003 million KRW (Q1/2025: 208,133 million KRW). Division Performance Chemicals recorded consolidated sales of 78,201 million KRW, up 15.6% compared to Q1/2025 (67,620 million KRW). SONGWON’s key Polymer Stabilizers business performed strongly in Q1/2026, supported by higher volumes compared to both the prior-year period and expectations, with January and February stronger than anticipated. In March, heightened geopolitical tensions tightened supply conditions and increased customer demand, which drove volumes higher. Compared to Q4/2025, SONGWON’s Fuel & Lubricant Additives also recorded higher volumes in Q1/2026, supported by prior-quarter destocking and timing-related logistics effects, with demand and pricing conditions stable throughout Q1/2026. After a subdued start to the quarter and a strong finish in March, Coatings recorded higher net sales and volumes in Q1/2026 compared to Q4/2025, in line with seasonal patterns. In Q1/2026, market demand remained neutral for Tin Intermediates, with the business seeing no sustained recovery but fluctuations between lower revenues in February and a rebound in March due to the impact of the Lunar New Year holiday. During Q1/2026, market conditions were weak in Japan and EMEA, but stable in Korea and SEA, with price competition intensifying in the U.S. Despite Tin ingot prices trending downwards throughout the quarter, they remained above expectations and supported revenues. PVC saw demand improve slightly in Q1/2026, particularly in Korea, with SEA remaining stable and EMEA continuing to develop strongly, especially in Africa and the Middle East. During the 1st quarter, SONGWON maintained its market positions in existing regions and developed emerging opportunities in new markets. SONGWON expects 2026 to remain challenging, with ongoing macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty, including a difficult trade environment, regulatory developments and a slowdown in key markets, weighing on customer confidence and demand visibility. Together with higher logistics costs, tighter supply conditions and industry-wide price adjustments, these factors are expected to increase volatility and limit forecasting accuracy. Going forward, the Group will closely monitor market developments, swiftly respond to changing conditions and safeguard profitability through disciplined pricing and targeted actions. By leveraging its global footprint and supply capabilities, SONGWON will focus on maintaining high product quality and reliable supply for customers, while pursuing selected opportunities aligned with its strategic priorities and adopting a prudent approach to navigating market uncertainty. The Q1/2026 Report can be downloaded at: www.songwon.com/investors/reports-publications.

Mondi and Dreco launch powder detergent packaging with 50% post-consumer recycled content

Tue, 12 May 2026 10:45:00 GMT
12 May 2026 – Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, has partnered with Dreco to develop a new powder detergent packaging solution containing post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, while maintaining the high level of product protection required for moisture-sensitive products. Packaging for powder detergent must protect the product effectively against moisture and water throughout its lifecycle. Mondi’s re/loop PillowBag demonstrates that high levels of recycled content can be successfully integrated into flexible packaging for demanding FMCG applications, without compromising performance, quality or consumer convenience. From 1 January 2030, the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) sets a target of 35% recycled content from post-consumer plastic waste for this category of plastic packaging. With 50% recycled content, the re/loop PillowBag is well-positioned to support future compliance with this target and significantly reduces the use of virgin plastics. The solution has already been launched in retailers across Germany, positioning Dreco as an early adopter of future-ready packaging, well ahead of regulatory deadlines. To ensure transparency and traceability across the value chain, Mondi applied a mass balance approach under its ISCC PLUS certification, enabling traceable allocation of PCR materials across its supply chain. In line with Mondi’s MAP2030 sustainability framework, re/loop PillowBag is designed for recycling and has been assessed according to Mondi's Path to Circularity Scorecard and the CEFLEX D4ACE guidelines. The structure is considered compatible with established polyolefin (PO) mechanical recycling streams, supporting effective end-of-life processing. Alongside its sustainability credentials, the packaging has been designed with end-consumer convenience in mind. The easy-opening bag supports practical handling and everyday use, while high-quality print designs ensure strong shelf presence. Milo Drehsen, Owner and Managing Director Dreco says: “Reducing the environmental impact of our packaging is a key priority for us, but performance is critical for products like powder detergent. Working with Mondi has enabled us to introduce a solution that combines high recycled content with the protection our products require. Launching this packaging across retailers in Germany marks an important step in our sustainability journey.” Sandor Kardos, Managing Director Mondi Békéscsaba, says: “This project shows how technical expertise and shared sustainability goals can deliver practical, scalable solutions. Together with Dreco, we have developed a high-PCR packaging solution for a moisture-sensitive application that is designed for recycling, helping our customer move ahead of regulation while meeting today’s market expectations.”

SABIC’s pioneering laser-weldable NORYL™ V0 resins deliver breakthrough in solar PV manufacturing

Tue, 12 May 2026 10:25:00 GMT
Bergen op Zoom, The Netherlands, May 12, 2026 - SABIC, a global leader in the chemical industry, today announced the launch of NORYL™ V0150TW and V0150IR2 resins, the first laser-weldable thermoplastics for photovoltaic (PV) applications. NORYL V0150TW (absorptive) and V0150IR2 (transmissive) resins uniquely combine flame retardancy and excellent weatherability and sealing performance. They can streamline the manufacturing of PV microinverters and other components while significantly enhancing their reliability and outdoor stability to accelerate solar energy adoption. These novel materials recently won a Silver 2026 Edison Award, one of the most respected accolades for global innovation. “To address expanding global adoption of solar energy, SABIC is developing new specialty materials that expedite mass production of components and meet rigorous performance requirements,” said Sergi Monros, vice president, SABIC Polymers, Specialties BU. “Our laser-weldable NORYL V0 resins offer important advantages over metal and polymers traditionally used for enclosures – from faster, cleaner assembly to extended service life under harsh conditions. We’re confident that these unique materials will help increase availability and adoption of the solar photovoltaic infrastructure.” Microinverters convert solar-generated direct current into alternating current. These exterior components require enclosures that provide robust flame retardancy, weatherability and mechanical integrity. New NORYL V0 resins meet these requirements with robust thin-wall FR (UL94 V0 5VA @1.5 mm); excellent weatherability with up to 15 years of outdoor service; and mechanical integrity up to 150°C. Compared to metal, these materials help reduce part size by up to 40 percent, weight by up to 35 percent and material usage by up to 30 percent. Further, as microinverter manufacturers scale up production to meet growing global demand for solar energy, NORYL V0 resins are helping the industry achieve higher throughput and improved economies of scale. By enabling a shift from ultrasonic welding to laser welding, they help to expedite assembly. For example, laser welding eliminates curing dependent bonding materials used in ultrasonic welding, helping to reduce cycle times and lower system costs. NORYL V0 resins are well suited for housings of solar tracker boxes, junction boxes and solar optimizers, as well as microinverters. These new products are available globally.

In focus every three years: KRAIBURG TPE at PLAST 2026 in Milan

Tue, 12 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT
KRAIBURG TPE has traditionally maintained close business relationships with its Italian customers. Accordingly, PLAST 2026 in Milan is much more than just a must-attend event. As part of the three-year trade fair cycle, the TPE developer and manufacturer will focus in particular on the range of its product and service portfolio.
PLAST was established in 1964 in the course of the European Plastics Congress and is now one of Europe’s longest-standing and most important plastics trade fairs. It captures the attention of the entire industry in the years it takes place, not least because it is held every three years. Strong presence in a key European market KRAIBURG TPE’s long-standing presence at the trade fair reflects its close cooperation with Italian customers. Italy is—after Germany—the company’s second-largest market in Europe. A comprehensive service network ensures proximity to customers across various regions and industry segments, especially the automotive industry. Focus on an overall presentation of KRAIBURG TPE The long interval between the PLAST editions means that exhibiting companies focus on both current developments and the most comprehensive possible presentation of their product and service portfolios during the four days of the trade fair (June 9 to 12, 2026, at Fiera Milano). Luca Triglia, Sales Manager Italy at KRAIBURG TPE, explains: “For us as material experts, the main goal at PLAST is to present ourselves as a company that can always meet the increased requirements of today’s markets, both regionally and globally. This of course includes the specific services we provide for our customers in our core industries. Looking at the big picture, however, we also want to emphasize general plastics topics as well as the issue of sustainability. When it comes to direct contact with our customers in the region, our exceptional commitment to service and quality is a key selling point. Our Italian partners, in particular, really appreciate the fact that we are able to provide them with personal support at every location in their country.” Significant progress in sustainability and recycling As a globally active specialist in the development of complex material solutions, KRAIBURG TPE’s focus extends far beyond traditional industry boundaries. Decades of expertise in the core markets of automotive, consumer, industry, and medical technology specifically enable targeted synergies between different industrial sectors. At the same time, the highly diversified R&D division has comprehensive expertise in the development and customized adaptation of compounds to specific customer requirements. This makes it possible to successfully meet even the most complex requirements for material solutions. We are particularly proud,” says Lucia Triglia, “of the progress we have made in the areas of sustainability and recycling since the last PLAST.” This includes, among other things, a new, recycling-based product range for automotive OEMs and suppliers that covers a broad range of applications with some products containing over 75 percent recycled materials. The corresponding material series comprise hardness ranges from 20 to 95 Shore A and are suitable for numerous interior and exterior as well as powertrain applications.

Avocado all day, every day: Westfalia Fruit unlocks new consumption moments at PLMA 2026

Mon, 11 May 2026 11:05:00 GMT
Westfalia Fruit, a global leader in the avocado industry, is redefining avocados from a weekend treat to an everyday habit, with its ready-to-use portfolio developed for growth. At PLMA 2026 (Hall 1, booth B44), Westfalia Fruit will exhibit a full product range, including fresh and ready-to-eat solutions on 19 and 20 May. The company features the scale of the opportunity ahead and highlights why Westfalia Fruit is the natural supplier of choice. The numbers tell the story. Avocado is one of the fastest-growing global fruit categories, with over 2.9 million tonnes traded internationally in 2024/2025, worth more than $9 billion. It is one of the most nutritious and versatile fruits on the shelf, and it sits precisely where today's consumer is heading: health, convenience, and premium. Based on our internal research, there are approximately 3 billion eating occasions in Europe each day, of which only 2% currently include avocado. Breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner: the opportunity is clear. From a weekend brunch item to an everyday ingredient, is the prize that Westfalia Fruit is putting on the table at PLMA. Under the banner ‘Westfalia Fruit Convenience’, the company will present its full ready-to-use portfolio meeting all eating occasions. Featuring our guacamole in a variety of flavours and textures, avocado cubes for smoothies, smashed for toast, slices for bowls, wraps, and oils for cooking and salads. Alongside a new generation of avocado spreads as a source of fibre and protein, designed to support a healthy lifestyle. PLMA 2026 also marks an important milestone for the business. Westfalia Fruit Convenience now fully integrates Syros, bringing the Belgian specialist's processing capability together with Westfalia Fruit's global sourcing and category expertise. The result is a single convenience platform: one trusted partner to maximise opportunities from farm to fork. "Avocado consumption is growing fast, but we are only scratching the surface in terms of usage occasions," says Geoffroy Beaujean, Convenience Director for Europe at Westfalia Fruit. "We see a clear opportunity to integrate avocado into everyday eating moments, from breakfast to dinner, through convenient, high-quality solutions. With our expertise and integrated supply chain, we are uniquely positioned to help our partners grow the category." At PLMA, the team will be available at the Westfalia Fruit booth, Hall 1, B44 to discuss new product development, private label partnerships, and the 2026 to 2027 pipeline with retailers across Europe.