ST. LOUIS (May 30, 2008) — Flexsys America L.P., a subsidiary of Solutia Inc., is evaluating sites in Asia-Pacific for potential growth in Crystex insoluble sulfur capacity.
Crystex is a vulcanizing agent for critical applications in the tire industry. Solutia estimates that by 2010 global annual tire production will reach 1.7 billion units, up from 1.4 billion in 2005.
According to the company, Asia has become an increasingly important center for tire production based on strong local demand and as an exporter to other world areas.
Flexsys has seven plants worldwide that produce Crystex, including two in Asia — in Japan and Malaysia.