Starr launches new polyurethane dispersion plant in Singapore to strengthen Asian market presence

Recently, Stahl announced the opening of a new factory in Singapore focused on the production of high-performance polyurethane dispersions (PUD), marking an important step in the expansion of Starr's market in Asia and the South Pacific.

The new plant is designed to better meet the growing demand for polyurethane dispersions in the region. Starr said the new facility not only underlines its strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, but will also help the company achieve its environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals.

It is understood that this new factory will focus on the production of a series of high-performance polyurethane dispersions, these dispersions have excellent fastness, water resistance, print retention and high flex durability, can provide critical performance support for multiple industries. These advanced PUD products are an ideal choice, especially in extremely demanding material applications.

Starr emphasizes that PUD technology plays a key role in reducing solvent use and is an important part of Starr's broader sustainability strategy. By increasing production of waterborne coatings, Starr is further reducing the environmental impact of its operations while supporting industries in their transition to more sustainable materials.

It is worth noting that the Singapore facility will also actively explore renewable energy and bio-based formulations to further advance the company's ESG goals and lay a solid foundation for future innovation. Dennis Koh, site and operations manager at Starr Singapore, said: "The new facility is designed to serve the vast Asian and South Pacific markets from China and Japan to New Zealand. This expansion not only supports our ESG goals, but also simplifies the supply chain and shortens the lead time for our customers by increasing the production of waterborne coatings and reducing the use of solvents. We are very proud to be able to include PUD in the scope of our services and enhance our technical capabilities in challenging projects." Dennis Koh also praised his team for working closely with prime contractor Essential Engineering & Construction to successfully complete the project in just 18 months.

At the same time, in the field of specialty chemicals, Rabig Refining and Petrochemical Company (Petro-Rabigh) has also cooperated with China Jiahua Chemical. The two sides signed a 12-month memorandum of understanding to explore the establishment of a specialty chemicals manufacturing plant in Rabig.

According to the statement, the new plant will produce specialty chemicals derived from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, which have a wide range of applications in the construction and automotive industries. Key materials for the new project will be provided by Petro-Rabigh.

The partnership is in line with Saudi Arabia's strategic objectives to boost local production of specialty chemicals, reduce imports and support the development of downstream industries related to the construction and automotive sectors. The statement also pointed out that the two sides will work together to promote the smooth implementation of this project and provide high-quality specialty chemicals for Saudi Arabia and related industries worldwide.