Teknor Apex partners with Nexeo for TPE growth

Teknor Apex is growing its partnership with materials distributor Nexeo Plastics.

On Jan. 1, Nexeo began distribution of Teknor Apex's Sarlink and Monprene brand thermoplastic elastomers in Europe. The agreement includes specialty adhesion-modified grades for multi-shot molding onto a wide variety of engineering resins.

Sarlink thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) are used in sealing applications that require elasticity and long-term performance in the automotive, industrial, consumer and building and construction markets. Styrenic-based Sarlink grades provide automotive OEMs with more design flexibility and colorability for interior applications.

Monprene TPEs have a wide hardness range and broad thermal performance. These materials are used in consumer products, industrial applications and packaging, and include grades formulated for food-contact applications.

In a news release, Nexeo Europe Middle East and Africa Vice President Joost d' Hooghe said that the partnership with Teknor Apex "enlarges our portfolio of high-value TPEs and complements the solutions we offer key industries."

Stef Hordijk, TPE Europe sales and marketing director for Teknor Apex, added that the two firms "complement each other well, with our highly customer-centric approach and similar broad customer base and market coverage."

He also said that Nexeo's extensive distribution network in Europe "significantly expands our reach in important target markets."

Teknor Apex, based in Providence, R.I., is one of North America's 30 largest compounders and concentrate makers. The firm operates 13 plants worldwide in the U.S., Belgium, Germany, China and Singapore and has annual sales of more than $1 billion.

Nexeo, based in The Woodlands, Texas, distributes resins and compounds in North America, Europe and Asia for more than 30 suppliers. The firm has annual sales estimated at around $2 billion.