The USA based Huntsman Corporation, the world's leading multinational manufacturer and distributor of performance products, adhesives and polyurethanes, intends to increase the capacity of its polyurethane catalyst and speciality amines production facilities at Petfurdo, Hungary. The capacities of these plants, which are scheduled for commissioning in the second quarter of 2023, have not been revealed.

The company has been continuously building its capabilities and product lines over the past decade, with the most recent being in 2018 for the expansion of its polyurethane catalyst plant at the Petfurdo site that rendered a 20% increase to its globally installed capacities.

The performance product division of Huntsman Corporation decided to go for further expansion after seeing the surge in the demand for its assorted polyurethane catalysts and speciality amines worldwide. The Hungarian government also backed Huntsman's proposed expansion with an investment grant of USD 3.8 million.

Polyurethane catalysts and amines are majorly used in the production of polyurethanes that find extensive application in the manufacturing of flexible foams for mattresses, automobile seats. They are also used in the formation of highly resistant adhesives, coatings, sealants, durable metal frameworks, insulation panels etc. The proposed expansion will strengthen Huntsman’s manufacturing base and aid in proliferating its polyurethane-based product segments.

ChemAnalyst says – “The addition of polyurethane catalyst and amine capacities will aid in the supply of polyurethanes in surplus amount. The construction and automotive sector are expected to occupy the highest volume share for polyurethanes with the transition towards the use of sustainable and energy-efficient materials in the American and European regions. The higher production volume is anticipated to bring stabilization in the prices of polyurethanes in the near future.”