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EUROPEAN PLASTICS NEWS
Published: November 28, 2013 6:59 pm ET
Updated: November 28, 2013 7:02 pm ET
Muttenz, Switzerland-based Clariant International Ltd. has opened its first "Project House" – a technological showcase for its masterbatch business unit, in Pogliano, Italy.
The Project House is a 400 square meter facility in Pogliano, Italy, which will house chemists and technicians as well as equipment, including extrusion machinery and analytical equipment. Its key objective is to pursue breakthrough concepts and solutions in masterbatch products and processes. The Project House represents an investment of approximately 2 million euros.
Clariant hopes to co-located industry know-how and bring together teams of experts around the world. The company claims the project will identify strategic areas and bring together interdisciplinary, cross-functional teams of scientists, technologists, marketer, academics and suppliers to exchange expertise, explore emerging technologies and look at innovative concepts.
The Project House will be integrated with Clariant's masterbatch activities globally, with connections to other business units including R&D and the company's new innovation center in Frankfurt, Germany.
Hans Bohnen, who leads Clariant's masterbatch business unit, said: "We recognize that Clariant needs to reach beyond its current portfolio in order to create maximum value and address the significant unmet customer and market needs that exist. We are committed to generating cutting-edge products, processes and services that ensure the sustainability of the masterbatches innovation pipeline. Through the Project House, we can effectively address relevant customers' needs in global markets throughout the value chain."
Clariant masterbatches are currently used in bottles, microwaveable trays, biodegradable food containers, multi-layer laminate, active packaging, durable industrial drums and tear-resistant shrink wrap. | |
