FERRARA, Italy—Versalis S.p.A. has started up a new EPDM production unit in Ferrara where the company already operates an existing plant for the manufacturing of elastomers and other basic chemicals.
The Italian specialty chemicals company announced Sept. 12 that the new $292 million project included the construction of a new production line and modernization of parts of the existing elastomer plant.
The expansion project adds 50,000 metric tons of annual production capacity to plant, which already manufactures 100,000 tons of elastomers each year.
The EPDM products, marketed by Versalis under the Dutral brand, mainly will be supplied to the automotive industry.
Because of the durable, mechanical and elastic properties, as well as its resistance to aging, EPDM materials have a wide range of applications, including in construction, roof insulation and automotive.
Versalis also renewed its "commitment to the development of the elastomer business," saying it aimed to maintain its "leading position" in the global market.