Covestro Lays Foundation for TPU Plant in China

Covestro breaks ground on new thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) production facility in Zhuhai, China. The new plant, to be built in three phases, is expected to produce up to 120,000 tonnes of TPU annually upon completion of the final expansion phase. The first phase is scheduled for mechanical completion in 2025, which will provide production capacity of approximately 30,000 tonnes per year. Initial investment for this first phase is in the mid-double-digit million euro range. The final phase is expected to be completed in 2033. TPU is a versatile plastic material used in diverse applications including sports shoes, brooms, smart speakers, IT devices such as phone cases, automotive applications like paint protection film, and wind turbine blade protection. Dr. Andrea Maier-Richter, Head of Covestro TPU, stated: "We are excited to announce the start of construction of our new TPU facility. This demonstrates our commitment to strengthening our production network for our Solutions and Specialties business unit overall and our TPU business in particular. As one of the world's leading TPU suppliers, it strengthens our position and places us at the center of important supply chains." Upon completion, the facility will cover an area of 45,000 square meters and, with maximum potential capacity of 120,000 tonnes, will be Covestro's largest TPU facility worldwide. With the new TPU facility, Covestro aims to provide customers with high-performance and sustainable solutions faster and more flexibly. To this end, Covestro will offer products labeled "CQ" at the new Zhuhai facility. Products labeled in this way comprise at least 25 percent alternative, non-fossil raw materials. The facility will also use state-of-the-art production technologies and operate on 100 percent renewable energy. Source