W.R. Grace & Co Partners with China Coal Shaanxi to Double Polypropylene Production
In a significant move set to propel the polypropylene industry forward, W.R. Grace & Co (Grace), based in Columbia, Maryland, has officially expanded its licensing agreement with China Coal Shaanxi Energy & Chemical Group Co., Ltd. (China Coal Shaanxi Company), effectively doubling the Chinese firm’s polypropylene production capability. Announced on February 14, 2024, this strategic partnership is aimed at enhancing China Coal Shaanxi's production capacity from 300,000 to 600,000 metric tons per year.
Positioned in Yulin City, Shaanxi province, China, the new reactor line, expected to commence operations in 2025, will focus on producing a wide array of polypropylene products, including high-quality homopolymers, random and impact copolymers, and terpolymers. This expansion not only signifies a substantial increase in the capacity of China Coal Shaanxi Company but also underscores the growing demand for polypropylene products globally.
Highlighting the synergy between Grace’s cutting-edge UNIPOL PP process technology and UNIPOL UNIPPAC process control software, Thomas Deman, President of Specialty Catalysts, Supply Chain, and Procurement at Grace, expressed enthusiasm about supporting China Coal Shaanxi Company. "We are delighted to support China Coal Shaanxi Company in expanding their PP production capabilities to meet customer demand," said Deman. The integration of Grace's renowned technology and software is touted as the most effective way to boost reactor performance, ensuring China Coal Shaanxi Company gains a competitive edge in terms of product differentiation, quality, and cost.
The partnership roots back to 2011 when China Coal Shaanxi Company first licensed a 300,000-m.t./yr line from Grace. The decision to extend this relationship underscores the trust and confidence China Coal Shaanxi Company places in Grace's advanced PP technology, reliable production capabilities, technical service, and the unparalleled efficiency of the UNIPOL UNIPPAC process control software.
As the global polypropylene market continues to expand, driven by a surge in demand across varied industries, this collaboration between W.R. Grace & Co and China Coal Shaanxi Energy & Chemical Group Co., Ltd. is set to play a pivotal role in meeting the burgeoning market needs, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality polypropylene products worldwide.
Analyst comment
Positive news. The partnership between W.R. Grace & Co and China Coal Shaanxi to double polypropylene production indicates a growing global demand for polypropylene products. With the integration of Grace’s technology, China Coal Shaanxi will gain a competitive edge in terms of product quality and cost. This collaboration will play a pivotal role in meeting market needs and ensuring a steady supply of high-quality polypropylene products worldwide.
