In 2013 Total Petrochemicals will start manufacturing a new generation of expandable polystyrene (EPS). The new polymer, whose formulation has been developed by Total Petrochemicals research teams, has technical and insulating properties that are significantly better than those of conventional white EPS.
Following the acquisition, in August 2010, of two polystyrene lines with a combined capacity of 160,000 tonnes per year located at the Total Petrochemicals Feluy production site (Belgium), it was decided to modify one of the two lines in order to manufacture this new expandable polystyrene. The new line is scheduled to start up in early 2013.
This investment, and the subsequent launch of the new EPS range, will ensure the long-term continuation of styrenics production at the Feluy site.
The second polystyrene line will be used to manufacture all grades of PS - high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) and general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) - thus ensuring uninterrupted supply for our customers. Four other Total Petrochemicals sites in Europe also produce polystyrene: Carling and Gonfreville in France, El Prat inSpain and Stalybridge in the United Kingdom.
With this project, Total Petrochemicals is consolidating its position in styrenic polymers for the insulation market and the Feluy site is strengthening its position as the leading polymer production site in Europe.
