Materials - New breed of high performance materials

Clariant International Ltd's BU Pigments for instance, considers the markets in the Middle East and Africa as one of its most important revenue sources and intends to increase its market share in this region. "BU Pigments' Portfolio for the plastic industry is extremely comprehensive starting from very cost competitive pigments to high-end products for demanding applications in engineering resins, for instance," according to Philippe Lazerme, Head of Strategic Marketing Plastics. The unit has new pigments under development, in the field of Quinacridones, while its latest addition to its range is PV Fast? Yellow E4G, (PV 19). The company also recently launched a range of "Low Halogen Controlled" pigments.

"As far as Azo pigments are concerned, we have to mention that the new products launched beginning of 2012 (PV Fast Red HGR, PV Fast Orange H2GL, PV Fast Yellow H4G) are high performanceAzos. This class of pigments displays various advantages for the masterbatchindustry and beyond for the packaging or fibreindustries, and we see good potential for these in the years to come," Mr. Lazerme adds.

The low halogen pigments are also increasingly being preferred by OEMs in the electronic industry and consumer goods production. "These sectors are setting their own regulations in terms of halogen content in their products and as a consequence in their specifications to the colourant industry. Recognising this trend, Clariant's BU Pigments has developed a specific range of pigments and polymer soluble dyes with controlled levels of halogen (Chlor and Brom). The limits set by Clariant are far below the lowest limit set by the industry," Mr. Lazerme stressed.

Excel International FZC, a distributor of oxo-biodegradable additives and other plastic materials in the region, feels an increased demand for oxo-biodegradable additives.

"We expect an increase of at least 25% in our business of 'Reverte' additives owing to mandatory usage of  'Oxo-biodegradable plastics' in UAE effective January 2013. Other GCC countries should also consider similar legislation in the near future. If that happens, the increase would be much more," said Shakul Rai, Managing Director, Excel International FZC.

In some African countries like Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, there is growing awareness of ill effects of plastics litter and the need for finding a solution. Excel International has work very closely with its British principals Wells Plastics Ltd. to propose and introduce the concept of using 'Oxo-biodegradable plastics' as a cost-effective solution to the respective governments.

Mr. Rai considers the MENA market as one of the fastest growing regions and feels the company is well-positioned to serve these markets with its high quality and reasonable pricing.These markets have recovered well and are on the path chemicals, personal care products and bottled water segments. These sectors are growing considerably and demand is expected to grow in 2013.” Duplas Al Sharq L.L.C is a plastic manufacturing company, engaged in the production of high quality PE, PET, PP and PC bottles and closures. However, factors such as price, market stability and a general sense of confidence will be paramount in determining the regional of high growth. "We plan to introduce high barrier bags for vacuum packaging of meat, beef, chicken and sea food etc. These are made from co-extruded films in 7 and 5 layers out of various combinations of EVOH, Polyamide (PA) and PE."