Clariant wins four awards including Outstanding Supplier 2022
Other prizes recognize performance, optimization and contributions to social projects
Awards demonstrate Clariant’s innovative customer solutions and commitment to sustainability
For the second year running, in 2022 Clariant has been named Outstanding Supplier by Anglo American. The award recognizes the partnership between the two companies.
Clariant was also recognized in the ‘Optimization’ category for its FLOTIGAM silica collectors, which enable a mine to separate silica from iron ore with minimal iron loses. Clariant customizes the collectors for each mine to achieve the maximum possible iron recovery while achieving or improving upon the required iron ore concentrate grade.
In the ‘Performance’ category Anglo American acknowledged Clariant’s ongoing support to enhance the silica collectors for reverse iron ore flotation and in other applications beyond flotation to help optimize operations.
In the ‘Sustainability/Social Projects’ category, Clariant was recognized for its work with nearby local communities. Clariant sponsors a project to promote sports activities among students, which expanded in 2022 to include one additional public school as well as classes for adults. The company also supports several other initiatives with students. This project has already benefited hundreds of people in the last six years and will continue in 2023. It’s the fourth time that Clariant and this important social initiative have been recognized by Anglo American.
“We are proud to receive the Outstanding Supplier Award from our customer Anglo American for the second year in a row. Additionally, being recognized again for our contributions to sustainability and social responsibility really shows our commitment to living out our purpose – Greater Chemistry, between People and Planet,” said Anna Dacar, Head of Business Segment Mining Solutions.
Clariant offers a wide portfolio of innovative, customized solutions to the mining industry, supported by a highly qualified team of experts and a robust global footprint, including application laboratories and competence centers in many of the major mining regions in the world. Clariant delivers sustainable solutions to the mining industry, including its Tailings Management Program to help mine operators reduce the amount of tailings they generate and improve their tailings storage practices.
Standardised HASCO Colour Table for Tolerances in The 3D Model
In 3D-CAD design in mould and tool making, defined colours are frequently employed for the identification of tolerances. With the aim of using uniform colour schemes to create an easy-to-use standard to make the work of the designers as easy as possible, HASCO – as a leading manufacturer of high-quality standard mould components and customised hot runner solutions – worked with various cooperation partners to produce the industry standard as part of a joint project.
Standardised colour tables simplify CAD design
A standardised colour table for mould and tool makers has been developed making it possible to easily and quickly identify tolerances of workpieces in 3D design. The result is a standardised colour table (VDWF Guideline 2020-1) for tool and mould making that is now available on the HASCO website and makes it possible to unambiguously label tolerances through defined colours. The CAM systems conventionally used can directly read in 3D models, automatically recognise the colours, and, from this, derive the tolerance.
Colour table standards simplify process automation
Misinterpretations when converting from a 2D drawing can be effectively avoided. ACTUAL dimensions are automated through corresponding measuring systems and can be compared with the 3D model. This simplifies process automation. Furthermore, this tool can be used for easy exchange of models for production at other locations.
Simply download the standardised HASCO colour table at www.hasco.com/en/hasco/cad, and take advantage of the benefits.
Standard mould units in the CAD system can do a great deal more than just replicate the geometry. Parameter-controlled native standard mould units offer the designer numerous advantages.
With the latest update of the SolidWorks Database, HASCO is providing its customers with an exclusive tool with around 100 further products. The parametric data allows simple and precise working.
In addition to the geometry of the component, the standard elements also contain information about the cutting geometry. Through Boolean operations, the cutting elements can be removed from the mould plates. This considerably facilitates installation of the mould units in the mould.
Native CAD data with installation spaces for ultra-short design times
The fully parametric data also have decisive advantages if any changes are made, since the relevant parts automatically adapt to the corrections. A new parts list is then generated, guaranteeing very high process reliability and completely eliminating the risk of incorrect orders. The largely automated ordering process ensures punctual delivery for the start of assembly and rounds off the overall process in a perfect manner.
Maximum process reliability through automatic parts list generation
If the design data, with the added value of the installation geometry, is channelled directly to the machining centre, further savings can be made at the downstream CAM stage.
The CAD specialists at HASCO are always available to assist SolidWorks users in implementing the database in their own systems.
Temperature control has a major influence on the quality of the mouldings. For around 35 years now, HASCO hot runner has been intensively involved in the further development of hot runner control units and offers a variety of different units for customised applications.
Basezone H1250/…
The basic control unit H1250/…, available in 1, 2 and 4 control zones, allows a high level of reliability in production. This reliability is ensured by the improved, self-optimising control characteristics, soft-start mode and LED displays for target/actual temperature, control parameters and an unambiguous alarm diagnosis. This device stands out for its simplicity, being designed as a plug-and-play controller and dispensing with additional features. It merely has the classic boost and stand-by functions and the possibility to switch over to manual mode.
Clickzone H1270/…
The module controller H1270/… allows 3-6 modular units to be fitted. Self-optimising control characteristics, a soft start for gentle drying of the heating unit, LED displays for target/actual temperature, control parameters and reliable error messages are some of the features of this controller. A two-colour LED strip shows the operating status. For flexible injection moulding production, the controller can also be replaced quickly and easily if necessary during operation.
Valuezone H1252/…
The multi-zone control units H1252/… are available in two versions with 6 and 12 control zones. A programmable soft start, a constant power display, unambiguous alarm diagnosis and permanent signalisation of the operating state via an LED strip ensure maximum reliability in production. The control accuracy of <1 °C under optimum conditions and switch-over temperature sensor are further features.
Primezone H1281/…
With the new generation of innovative control units, Primezone H1281/…, HASCO hot runner has made an important addition to its hot runner product portfolio. This range boasts outstanding control accuracy, intuitive ease of operation and comprehensive diagnostic functions. The touch-screen display and the latest software technology enables simple and intuitive operation just like a modern smartphone. With the three table-top sizes, it is possible to control between 6 and 48 zones precisely and reliably and, with the mobile version, between 64 and 96 zones.
All the control units allow a high level of production reliability and offer unique user friendliness, control accuracy and long service life. Apart from that, the new, smooth-running Co-Cart H1200/… transport trolley from HASCO hot runner allows perfect and secure positioning of the devices directly next to the mould.
KRAIBURG TPE offers THERMOLAST H HC/AD1/AP polar adhesion series for gaskets, seal and sealing components
The development of safe and effective medical devices has been the industry’s top priority. According to the World Health Organization, there are over two million different types of medical devices on the global market, each of which belongs to a specific generic device group. These devices are used in therapeutic and diagnostic procedures, as well as patient care and medical research.
A variety of medical instruments rely on high-performance gaskets, seals, and sealing components to protect them from dirt, dust, liquids, electromagnetic interference, electrostatic discharge, and flame, among other things.
As a result, thorough selection of the material capable in meeting these requirements for gaskets, seals, and sealing components is important.
Manufacturers are increasingly using TPEs due to their material properties and cost-effectiveness, with safety and efficacy being important parameters when developing medical devices and parts.
KRAIBURG TPE, a global TPE manufacturer of a wide range of TPE products and custom solutions for multiple industries, offers the THERMOLAST H HC/AD1/AP polar adhesion series for medical device components that require superior sealing performance, processing benefit, and overall cost savings for the manufacturer.
Suitable hardness and flexibility, simple processing
THERMOLAST H HC/AD1/AP series is available in a variety of hardness ranging from 30 to 80 Shore A, allowing the manufacturer to select the appropriate hardness for the application as needed. The compound can beinjection molded to adhere to polar thermoplastics such as PC, ABS, PC/ABS, ASA, SAN, PET, PETG, PS, and others. It also has optimized mechanical properties and a soft touch surface for product design flexibility.
Sterilisable, clean material
THERMOLAST H HC/AD1/AP series is sterilizable. This series is also free of animal ingredients, PVC, silicone, and latex, and it complies with regulations such as Cytotoxicity ISO 10993-5, GB/T 16886.5, RoHS, and REACH.
Versatile color advantage
THERMOLAST H HC/AD1/AP series is available in natural color and can be customized to meet the project's unique requirements. This property qualifies the compound for use in medical and healthcare seals and gaskets.
Sustainability successes of our TPE
KRAIBURG TPE’s recent sustainability innovations include a specially developed material solution for automotive, consumer, and industry applications comprising post-consumer recycled (PCR) and post-industrial recycled (PIR) content.
Global Clean-Tech Majors Bioweg and Ginkgo Bioworks to Combat Microplastic Pollution with Bio-Based Materials
Green alternatives to synthetic polymers being developed
Bioweg, an innovative ‘Bio-innovation to Business’ German producer of highly functional and customizable bio-based materials, has partnered with Ginkgo Bioworks (NYSE: DNA), global leaders in building platforms for cell programming and biosecurity, to announce a collaboration to optimize the production of bacterial cellulose and produce novel variants with improved performance to serve a variety of end markets. Biomaterials could prove to the most biodegradable, carbon-negative plastic alternative that could put the world on a more sustainable track. Bioweg was founded in Germany in 2019 by Dr Prateek Mahalwar and Srinivas Karuturi, two Indian-origin founders from Delhi and Bengaluru. Both share a common passion for combining bio-innovation and business problems.
The problem of microplastics is prevalent all over the world and also India is not unaffected. A recent study by the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) has found that microplastic pollution is very high on the east coast about 10 km into the open sea, with up to 308 particles per kg of sediment. It is therefore not surprising that an average person could be ingesting about 5 grams of plastic each week through the consumption of common foods and beverages, according to a study by the University of Newcastle. These microplastics are non-biodegradable and sometimes carry toxic chemicals on top of them. Regulatory agencies and communities around the world have addressed microplastics contamination through significant regulations. Bioweg’s current products based on biodegradable bacterial cellulose have already been tested and implemented by companies as an effective substitute for widely used synthetic polymers such as acrylates, polyethylene, and polystyrene. Synthetic polymers often appear as microbeads (micropowders) and texturants (rheology modifiers) in products throughout the cosmetics, homecare, personal care, agricultural coatings, and other industries, which contribute to microplastic pollution in surface waters worldwide.
“Consumers and companies are united in their commitment to finding better performing and more sustainable alternatives for everyday products to break the chain of microplastic pollution. Our solutions are not just tackling a major environmental, sustainability and health problem, but also present a robust market opportunity to replace plastic polymers in care, coatings, chemicals, and other industries,” said Prateek Mahalwar, CEO at Bioweg. “We believe that this partnership will be a win-win situation for us and will give us access to strain engineering and screening capabilities that can enable us to deliver our biobased solutions at scale and competitive pricing.”
“Bioweg is addressing a significant need in the marketplace to develop and produce a new generation of clean alternatives to synthetic polymers,” said Ena Cratsenburg, Chief Business Officer at Ginkgo Bioworks. “We are committed to supporting the shift to sustainable and bio-based high-performance alternatives and are happy to partner with Bioweg to address the pressing issues of microplastics contamination and promote responsible consumption.”
The Indian government has recognised the issue of microplastic pollution and is launching programmes like the Green Credit Program under the Environment (Protection) Act to incentivise sustainable measures in industry. The Union Budget 2023-24 also focuses heavily on green growth to accelerate the transition to sustainable growth. Bioweg aims to provide significant support in this regard and possibly establish a production facility for biologic microplastic alternatives in India in the near future, which could serve as a base for supplying the Southeast Asian market.
MAAG Group is a broadly diversified global solutions provider of Pump & Filtration Systems, Pelletizing & Pulverizing Systems, Recycling Systems and digital solutions.
More and more new developments in plastics are being made in China, one of the strongest growth markets in the world. MAAG Group takes this into account and will be present at Chinaplas in Shenzhen, China, from April 17-20, 2023 in the German Pavilion in hall 10, booth No. F11.
Our experts on site will be happy to inform you about our product portfolio for the polymer industry:
The MAAG Group extrex gear pumps GA are designed for common thermoplastic extrusion applications and offer a high overall efficiency and hence minimum abrasion due to leading gear and bearing technology. They convince with low pulsation pump action also in cases of high differential pressure and a simple and compact design. With over 15’000 MAAG gear pumps installed in China, you know that you have competence on your side. The newly developed extrex recycling pump ensures reliable extrusion in the recycling process. The extrex features an optimized geometry that, in many cases, eliminates the need for an upstream protective filter, saving space and reducing the energy required for heating and drive power. Like all MAAG pumps, extrex is designed to meet the high demands of everyday operation.
MAAG ETTLINGER ERF 350 is a high-performance melt filter for the filtration of heavily contaminated polymer feedstock. The filter is self-cleaning with a rotating, perforated drum, through which there is a continuous flow of melt from the outside to the inside. A scraper removes the contaminants that are held back on the surface and feeds them to the discharge system. This enables the filter to be used fully automatically and without any disruptions over long periods without having to replace the screen. The advantages: Reliable melt filtration, ultra-low melt losses and good mixing and homogenizing of the melts.
The BAOLI-3 strand pelletizer is outfitted with German-made core components and has been designed for use with both hard and soft pelletizing materials. The most noteworthy highlights are its compact design that features height-adjustment, left-side/right-side control capabilities that provide greater operational flexibility, and reduced noise generation during operation. At the same time it offers easy access for cleaning making it easy for maintenance, material changes, and color changes. The BAOLI- 3 pelletizer is based on MAAG’s more than six decades of experience and an installed base of nearly 1’000 BAOLI pelletizers in China to develop a new and enhanced version which provides high reliability, improved handling, and an optimized cost/benefit ratio.
The ZHULI system is a highly flexible, cost-efficient underwater pelletizing system designed for use with standard products, such as filled Polyolefins, Polyesters and Thermoplastic Elastomers. ZHULI ’s cutting tools deliver spherical pellets of the highest quality that are ideally suited for further processing, with throughput rates of up to 1,200 kg/h. The pelletizing system has a small footprint and is simple to operate.
For more innovations and information on our products, visit www.maag.com
SABIC to Launch at MD&M West 2023 New Chemically Resistant, Thin-Wall Transparent LNP CRX Copolymer Resins That Can Help Improve Medical Device Durability & Sustainability
SABIC, a global leader in the chemical industry, will introduce at MD&M West 2023 two new LNP CRX polycarbonate (PC) copolymer resins offering a distinct combination of robust chemical and impact resistance, thin-wall transparency, dimensional stability and processability. In device applications such as clear covers, screens and display lenses, the new materials can overcome key drawbacks of incumbent PC resins and co-polyester resins when exposed to disinfectants or aggressive chemicals. Customers can choose LNP ELCRES CRX1314TW copolymer or its bio-based equivalent, LNP ELCRIN CRX1314BTW copolymer, which offers up to a 42 percent reduction in carbon footprint based on life cycle assessment (LCA). Both grades feature limited biocompatibility according to ISO 10993 and coverage under SABIC’s healthcare product policy, which provides stringent management of change processes. Since SABIC’s first LNP ELCRES CRX copolymer resins were introduced at MD&M West 2020, the continued market need for chemically resistant materials has driven the development of these innovative thin-wall transparent materials.
Nithin Raikar, SABIC’s Senior Business Manager for LNP Resins and Compounds, will discuss these new LNP CRX materials at MD&M West 2023. His presentation, “Thin-wall Transparent, Chemically Resistant LNP CRX Copolymer Resins: Addressing Medical Device Durability and Sustainability Trends,” will take place on February 8 at 11:30 am in the Design Alley Theater.
“The rigorous healthcare disinfection protocols established during the COVID pandemic are ongoing and SABIC continues to innovate in the area of chemical resistance,” said Joshua Chiaw, Director, Business Management, LNP & NORYL, Specialties, SABIC. “Our Specialties business is developing new solutions that not only help device manufacturers avoid degradation from aggressive disinfectants, but also address other requirements. Our newest materials extend the LNP CRX portfolio by combining signature chemical resistance with other desirable properties, including sustainability. These thin-wall transparent copolymers, which complement our opaque LNP CRX grades, can help customers take a holistic approach when creating diagnostic devices and wearables that deliver longer service life, lower system costs and reduce environmental impact.”
Distinct Combination of Properties
Like all LNP CRX materials, the new grades feature exceptional resistance to harsh disinfecting chemicals, such as quaternary ammonium compounds, alcohols and peroxides, which can lead to the environmental stress cracking (ESC) of medical device displays and covers. Furthermore, these materials offer transparency equivalent to that of PC resins at thin-wall geometries of 0.8 mm to 1.0 mm, and offer translucency at higher thicknesses. They also deliver high impact resistance across a wide temperature range (down to -40°C), excellent dimensional stability and good processability. Both grades meet the UL94 HB standard for horizontal burning.
The new LNP ELCRES CRX1314TW copolymer and its bio-based version can help customers avoid the trade-offs associated with incumbent transparent materials. Amorphous resins like PC provide excellent clarity and dimensional stability for tight part tolerancing, but typically have insufficient chemical resistance to harsh disinfectants. Semi-crystalline materials, while offering higher inherent chemical resistance exhibit significant shrinkage and part warpage that can negatively affect part tolerances. Due to high moisture absorption, they may be difficult to process and generate excessive scrap resulting from surface defects. Amorphous co-polyesters may be incompatible with harsh disinfectants and may exhibit processing tradeoffs that may lead to potential production inefficiencies.
Improved Sustainability
The new SABIC materials contribute to sustainability goals by helping customers design and manufacture devices with optimized service life. Improved chemical and impact resistance can help to reduce premature part damage and failures. Greater durability results in a more positive life cycle, as fewer devices need to be replaced and, consequently, fewer are disposed to landfills.
Through expanded thin-wall design freedom, the LNP CRX copolymers enable sustainability to be incorporated in devices up front. They can help designers reduce overall part dimensions, consolidate parts and materials, and enhance manufacturing efficiencies with thin-wall molding, which is becoming increasingly important in the design of smaller and lighter-weight applications such as portable and hand-held medical equipment.
Materials based on certified renewable feedstocks could be a great option to help device manufacturers meet their sustainability objectives. Because medical device applications are subject to strict regulatory requirements, any change in material selection triggers product requalification efforts that are costly for manufacturers. The new LNP ELCRIN CRX grade enhances circularity through the incorporation of renewable feedstock derived from non-fossil, bio-based content from waste materials that do not compete with the food chain. The incorporation of renewable feedstock does not compromise product quality and provides identical performance compared to virgin materials. LNP ELCRIN CRX grade can provide a potential drop-in solution to avoid requalification and meet regulatory requirements.
LNP ELCRIN CRX1314BTW resin can offer reductions in carbon footprint of up to 42 percent when compared to the fossil-based version in accordance with ISO 14040/14044 protocols. SABIC’s Specialties business has received International Sustainability and Carbon Certification Plus (ISCC+) designation at its production facilities in Cobourg, Canada, Benoi, Singapore and Pontirolo, Italy, enabling recognition of its new LNP ELCRIN CRX1314BTW grade, and other mass-balance, certified renewable grades.
Streamlined Manufacturing
To streamline the manufacturing process, LNP ELCRES CRX1314TW and LNP ELCRIN CRX1314BTW grades can offer several advantages, including laser welding capability. To meet the healthcare industry’s growing need for high-precision, vibration-free assembly technology, these new copolymer resins provide near-infrared (IR) transmission optical properties that are required for laser welding. They enable leakproof, low-stress welds without the need for adhesives.
SABIC’s first LNP ELCRES CRX materials that were launched in 2020 are opaque and custom colorable. The introduction of thin-wall transparent LNP CRX copolymers now gives customers a broader selection of high-performance materials for a wide range of applications across multiple industries.
In addition to providing benefits for healthcare devices and wearables, the new LNP CRX products can help protect against the effects of chemicals used in sunscreen, hand creams and insect repellent, which can potentially degrade consumer electronics and industrial applications.
SABIC’s new LNP ELCRES CRX1314TW and LNP ELCRIN CRX1314BTW copolymer resins are globally available.
SABIC’s new LNP ELCRES CRX1314TW copolymer and its bio-based equivalent, LNP ELCRIN CRX1314BTW copolymer resins offer a distinct combination of robust chemical and impact resistance, thin-wall transparency, dimensional stability and processability and are well-suited for clear covers, screens and display lenses.
Borouge Accelerates Sustainability and Circularity in India With Innovative Polyolefin Solutions
Borouge’s design solutions incorporate recycled polyolefins to drive towards a circular economy
Its sustainable and differentiated solutions for India’s Infrastructure sector aim to better serve local communities
2023 marks 25 years of Borouge’s continual commitment to value chain partners and customers
Borouge Plc (ADX symbol: BOROUGE / ISIN: AEE01072B225), a leading petrochemical company that provides innovative and differentiated polyolefin solutions, is advancing its sustainability and circularity ambitions in India with its value-creating products.
To further accelerate the transition to a circular economy, Borouge is showcasing groundbreaking innovations and solutions from its portfolio including Agriculture, Advanced Packaging, Circular Economy, Energy, Healthcare, Infrastructure and Mobility at PLASTINDIA 2023 from 1 to 5 February 2023 in New Delhi.
Rainer Hoefling, Chief Executive Officer, Borouge Pte Ltd said, “2023 marks a significant milestone for Borouge as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of service to our customers including our Indian subcontinent partners. India has always played a critical role in our business expansion and we are heartened by the collaboration and partnerships that we have formed in the market. We see a perfect synergy between Borouge’s growth ambitions in India and bringing our innovation and technological expertise to our partners in the market. We are committed to supporting the fast-growing industries in India by developing creative solutions that bring value to partners and customers.”
PLASTINDIA 2023 marks the 11 th edition of Asia’s largest polymers exhibition. Borouge has been a key participant of the tri-annual trade show while contributing to the local communities via agriculture, water and gas infrastructure projects of national significance including the recent completion of 900 greenhouses in Jaipur, Rajasthan and the Urja Ganga Gas Pipeline Project.
“Borouge’s participation in PLASTINDIA 2023 allows us to showcase our latest products and gives us the opportunity to reconnect with our customers in person to ensure that we are helping them respond to the dynamic market needs. The polyolefin market in India has expanded rapidly over the past two decades and we are proud that our differentiated solutions not only contributed to industry developments in India, they have had positive impact on society as well. This is why we are confident and well-positioned in supporting our Indian customers while advancing our efforts in innovation, circularity and sustainability for a better tomorrow,” added Eddie Wang, Senior Vice President, Asia South, Borouge Pte Ltd.
Highlights of Borouge’s products and solutions
With the company’s expansion of strategic partnerships with recycling companies recently, Borouge has also introduced design solutions that incorporate recycled polyolefins to drive the transformation towards a zero waste economy. Highlights include courier bag, collation shrink film, non-food bottle and cap application, all of which contain a combination of post-consumer recycled polyolefins and Borouge’s premium Anteo and Borstar polyethylene grades. Other circular economy solutions include full PE mono-material pouches and packaging developed in collaboration with value chain partners.
Anteo FK1826 is a bimodal terpolymer linear low-density polyethylene produced using the proprietary Borstar technology for high performance flexible packaging requirements. With its superior mechanical and sealing performance, Anteo promotes high throughput and cost-efficient processing in blown film production, offering further downgauging potential and cost competitiveness when used together with the Borstar family.
RH668MO is a polypropylene random copolymer, based on proprietary Borstar Nucleation Technology (BNT) that combines excellent clarity and aesthetics with superior productivity, designed for use in premium houseware and food containers. Its combination of high flow and BNT allows for cycle time reduction and energy savings, providing tangible cost and sustainability benefits.
Also featured is the Borstar FB1200, a bimodal polyethylene designed for agriculture films which come with a unique matt surface, excellent mechanical strength and toughness, and superior melt strength and higher bubble stability. It complements Borouge’s suite of agriculture solutions for greenhouses, mulch films, aqua pond liners, and drip irrigation, enhancing farming efficiencies with precision farming with benefits including crop yield improvement, water savings and resource conservation.
Borouge is also displaying its differentiated solutions for the Infrastructure sector, featuring its latest product portfolio that promotes durability and sustainability with the goal of better serving communities in India and globally.
One of Borouge’s key exhibits at PLASTINDIA 2023 is BorSafe HE3490-ELS-H, its latest PE100 solution for thick-walled and large diameter pipes in industrial applications. A recent addition to Borouge’s high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pressure pipe portfolio, it has superior low sag properties that enable a more uniformly distributed wall thickness compared to conventional PE100 materials, delivering tangible material savings for pipe producers.
Borouge has also recently introduced Borstar HE3477-RT, a new innovative polyethylene of raised temperature resistance (PE-RT) Type II bi-modal material, designed for heating and industrial pipes that can achieve more than 50 years of service life at elevated temperatures. Its superior processability allows for easier production of heating and industrial pipes with larger diameters than most PE-RT Type II currently available. It is also an excellent material that can address the growing demand for replacing conventional metallic materials in district heating and industrial applications.
Borouge is bringing its polymer solutions to life with live machine demonstrations at PLASTINDIA 2023, which will be open to all event participants. Borouge’s booth at
PLASTINDIA 2023 is located at 2H, GF-D1.
With great sadness Covestro and its employees learned about the death of Michel Baulé, entrepreneur in the cast polyurethane industry, who has passed away January 13th at the age of 79.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Michel’s family,” said Thomas Braig, Head of Elastomers at Covestro. “We will forever and fondly remember the entrepreneur, the exceptional man and our friend who was at the origin of Covestro Elastomers.”
Graduated with a PhD in chemistry, the native of Cavaillon, France embarked on entrepreneurship in 1976 at the age of 33 by creating a molding company for cast polyurethane parts in Romans-sur-Isère, France. Fate, circumstances and his passion for innovation made him establish a second business in 1983, specializing in the formulation of cast elastomers systems. Together with companions such as Philippe Jeantin, currently Head of the Machines business at Covestro Elastomers, Antonio Alvarez and Mauro Modugno he then founded even another business in 1987, dedicated to the design and manufacture of low pressure dispensing machines.
These businesses became a leader in its realm as a cooperation. It later divested its molding entity to its executives to become EXSTO, while Baulé, combining the material formulation and the machines manufacturing, successfully established a Joint Venture with the MaterialScience division of the Bayer company in 2008. In 2012, this turned into a merger, and Baulé’s former business became officially part of the Bayer group. In 2015, it became part of the carve out of Covestro from its parent company Bayer. Today, this business finds its heritage in the Elastomers Business Entity of Covestro, still headquartering in Romans-sur-Isère.
“We pay tribute to genius that was Michel Baulé, for inspiring dozens of innovations in the cast polyurethane industry, among them the development of three-components systems with quasi-MDI-prepolymers and many innovative processing concepts that lead us to maintain and promote the brand Baulé for our machine technology. He will be missed dearly,” Abdel Arhzaf, Managing Director of Covestro Elastomers SAS, added.
After a valuable contribution to the growth of the cast polyurethane industry, Michel Baulé developed a family office called EXIMIUM which has maintained all its entrepreneurial culture through acquisitions and participations while developing financial activities and support services. Until his last days he remained very active and energetic in his entrepreneurial role.
