Grupa Azoty Zakłady Azotowe Kędzierzyn S.A. has expanded its product mix with the introduction of Oxoviflex, the first Polish non-phthalic plasticizer. The new product is a response to the growing demand for innovative solutions for the PVC processing market.Thanks to the most advanced plasticizer unit in this part of Europe, Grupa Azoty ZAK will be able to produce 50,000 tonnes of Oxoviflex per year.
On Wednesday, April 29th 2015, the new non-phthalic plasticizer unit, with a target budget of over PLN 40m, was officially placed in service. Włodzimierz Karpiński, Minister of the State Treasury, was the guest of honour at the ceremony.
"This unit, which was created using Polish technological talent, is a perfect example of successful collaboration between Polish science and business and proof that Grupa Azoty ZAK makes good use our most precious resource - human capital - in pursuing its investment plans. I am glad that this unit, the only one of its kind in Central and Eastern Europe, will operate in the Opole Province, contributing to the development of modern industry in the region," Mr Karpiński said.
"The OXO segment is one of our priorities. The new commercial strategy for the segment is proof of our commitment to technological innovation, but also to becoming increasingly competitive on the European market. This approach will guarantee success for both the Grupa Azoty Group and our partners," said Paweł Jarczewski, President of the Management Board of Grupa Azoty S.A.
Oxoviflex is not subject to any legal or application restrictions, and is safe. It is also one of the most advanced general purpose plasticizers, not only of excellent quality, but also competitively priced compared with similar products available on the market.
"Oxoviflex is a tangible effect of the cooperation between our technologists and the scientists from the Blachownia Institute of Heavy Organic Synthesis. This innovative product with strong market potential is modern, safe and competitive," stressed Adam Leszkiewicz, President of the Management Board of Grupa Azoty ZAK S.A.
Plasticisers are used to ensure elasticity and flexibility of PVC and PVC products. Without them, plastics processing would be practically impossible. The new plasticizer in the Grupa Azoty ZAK portfolio may be successfully applied to a wide range of PVC products, including floor coverings, vinyl wallpapers, flexible pipes, cable insulation and coverings, faux leather, foil and packaging. As opposed to phthalic plasticizers, Oxoviflex can be used to manufacture toys and goods that come into contact with foodstuffs.
Oxoviflex has already gained recognition from the Polish Agency for Enterprise Development, which has named it the Polish Product of the Future.
