DSM ventures into HNBR field with Thortan

HEERLEN, The Netherlands (Feb. 12)—DSM N.V. has entered the hydrogenated nitrile rubber market, with a product tradenamed Thortan. The specialty product is a result of a new technology that substantially cuts the cost of HNBR manufacturing, and the first samples of the rubber were made last year, the company said. DSM's HNBR business is being managed by DSM Venturing & Business Development, part of the parent group's Other Activities segment. DSM joins Bayer A.G. and Zeon Chemicals L.P. as suppliers of the specialty elastomer, which is used heavily in the automotive industry where it exhibits good temperature and harsh environment resistance.