ExxonMobil Chemical to Increase Polypropylene Compounding Capacity at Lillebonne Facility in France

06 Jul 2009 • by Natalie Aster

ExxonMobil Chemical is investing in increased polypropylene (PP) compounding capacity and capability at its Lillebonne Polypropylene Plant (LPP), France. Capacity will increase by 45,000 tons to meet growing demand for Exxtral™ performance polyolefins from automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) primarily in Europe. The expansion is due for completion by year end 2009.

The LPP facility currently manufactures neat, filled and compounded PP such as the new generation compound Exxtral BMU141 that was recently specified for the instrument panel of the new Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner. Exxtral polyolefins were also specified for the door panel, and upper and lower trim of these vehicles.

Exxtral polyolefins have been used primarily for interior and under the hood automotive applications but are increasingly being specified for exterior applications, such as bumper fasciae which also are driving demand.

“This expansion also increases the range of polymers manufactured at LPP. It is yet another demonstration of ExxonMobil Chemical’s commitment to meeting the needs of the growing global automotive industry. It follows announcements last year of capacity and capability increases in North America and Asia Pacific," said Samuel Deboos, automotive and appliance sales manager, polypropylene, Europe, ExxonMobil Chemical specialty compounds business. “As a result, customers will have easier access to a broader range of Exxtral polyolefins wherever they are located.”

Source: Communiqué EXXON MOBIL