Eastman increases 2- ethylhexanoic acid capacity

Eastman Chemical Company (Kingsport, TN) has announced expansion plans in manufacturing capacity for Eastman 2-ethylhexanoic (2-EH) acid by means of a debottlenecking project at its Kingsport manufacturing facility.

The additional quantity, scheduled to come on stream in late 2001, will increase Eastman's 2-EH acid capacity from 40 million pounds to 80 million pounds annually.

"This increase is in response to growth in a number of end-use markets for 2-EH acid," said Rob Carlstrom, business unit director for Eastman's Organic Specialties business. "We continue to see sustained growth in synthetic lubricants, PVC heat stabilizer, and plasticizer markets, all of which are driving increased demand for 2-EH acid."

Eastman increased the capacity from 32 million to 40 million pounds annually in 1999.

Metallic salts of 2-EH acid are used as driers for paints, inks, varnishes and enamels. The esters of this product have found use in the preparation of synthetic greases and lubricants. The chemical is also used as an intermediate for plasticizers, catalysts and synthetic antibiotics.

Edited by Drew Bowden
Assistant Editor, Chemical Online