TOKYO—Shin-Etsu's silicones business has posted a slight growth in sales and a healthy increase in operating income for the first half of its financial year, from April through the end of September.

WAUKEGAN, Ill.—The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has proposed a fine of nearly $1.6 million against AB Specialty Silicones for 12 alleged willful safety violations connected with a fatal explosion and fire at the company's manufacturing facility May 3.

TEMPE, Ariz.—A medical molding plant in Tempe that Viant Medical, formerly MedPlast, closed in September is on the auction block.

AKRON—Thanks to growing demand for high consistency rubber in liquid injection molding segments, Shin-Etsu of America has expanded its team dedicated to these products.

PHILADELPHIA—Stockwell Elastomerics has created a new demonstration video showing the benefits of using silicone gasket tape.

ADRIAN, Mich.—Wacker Chemical has launched a new website, Silmix.com, for U.S.-based silicone rubber customers.

SCHAUMBURG, Ill.—In the age of Industry 4.0, companies are accelerating their drive to automation. However, that might not be the best idea for everyone.

BALLSTON SPA, N.Y.—Specialty Silicone Products has signed an exclusive sales agreement with Queensland Gaskets, covering Australia and New Zealand.

DALTON, Mass.—Sinicon is growing through acquisition and positioning itself for new work by participating in the startup of a regional innovation hub.