Eastman Expands Manufacturing Capacity of Non-phthalate Plasticizer by 6,000 TPA

KINGSPORT, TENN. -- Eastman Chemical Company has announced that it is increasing its manufacturing capacity of Eastman 168 non-phthalate plasticizer at its Kingsport, Tennessee site by approximately 6,000 tons annually.

The expansion work begins less than one month after the company purchased a manufacturing facility for the production of Eastman 168 in Texas City, Texas, and less than one year after completing a debottlenecking process in Kingsport in February. The additional manufacturing capacity from this expansion is scheduled to be on line before the end of 2011.

"Eastman is committed to continual growth and reinvestment in our business," said Heidi Barnes, Oxo and Plasticizers business director. "We believe that Eastman 168 is the best general-purpose non-phthalate plasticizer available on the market today and the steady growth in demand that we are experiencing is validating that belief. We are investing significant capital to ensure that we can supply product to our customers now and in the future."

Around the world, market and regulatory pressures are driving manufacturers of toys, childcare articles, medical devices and other PVC plastic products to switch to non-phthalate plasticizers. Eastman 168 has proven to be a ready replacement for customers who are looking for a track record of regulatory approval and high performance. Eastman 168 has been thoroughly tested with a clean toxicological profile and broad regulatory acceptance.