tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64923341830698327222024-03-13T03:20:32.982-07:00Chennai-RocksChennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-16918249993867226212012-07-06T09:06:00.000-07:002012-07-06T08:36:52.590-07:00Leather technology & the environment<DIV> <H1><SPAN lang=EN><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=4><SPAN lang=EN> <P align=justify>A. SAHASRANAMAN</P><FONT size=2 face=Arial><FONT size=2 face=Arial> <P align=justify>Vice-Chairman</P></FONT></FONT><FONT size=1 face=Arial><FONT size=1 face=Arial> <P align=justify>Chennai Environmental Company of Tanneries (CEMCOT), Chennai</P></FONT></FONT></SPAN></FONT></FONT></FONT></FONT></B></SPAN></H1> <H1><SPAN lang=EN><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=4>Introduction</FONT></H1></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QJu3BRhywic/T_cGFMXWzLI/AAAAAAAAAxU/kcFWp82b-_w/s1600/BE27C42B%2540A773E92B.0F06F74F-712596.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QJu3BRhywic/T_cGFMXWzLI/AAAAAAAAAxU/kcFWp82b-_w/s320/BE27C42B%2540A773E92B.0F06F74F-712596.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5762080934532140210" /></a>India has emerged as a major tanning centre of the world, processing about 3,000-tonnes of raw materials per day. The main centres of tanning include Jullunder in the North; Kanpur, Unnao and Kolkata in the East; and Chennai, Ranipet, Ambur, Vaniyambadi, Pernambut, Erode, Dindigul and Trichy in the South. About 45% of country's total tanning capacity is in the South; 18% in Kolkata; 25% in Kanpur; about 7% in Jullunder and the rest scattered in rural areas. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Being a water-intensive process, tanning generates considerable volume of wastewater. On the average, about 35-m3 of wastewater is generated while processing one tonne of raw material. It is roughly assessed that about 100,000-m3 of wastewater is generated per day by the tanneries in the country.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>In the process of leather making, a number of chemicals are also used in the tanning and post-tanning processes. It has been observed that the amount of chemicals absorbed by the leather is not more than 20%; the rest 80% being washed away with the process water. The effluent of tanneries thus carries a huge volume of a cocktail of chemicals. Besides, the solid waste generated while processing hides and skins works out to about 65% of the weight of the raw material. This includes hair, fleshings and trimmings of raw-, semi-processed or finished leather, shavings and leather dust, besides the sludge generated by wastewater treatment plants.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The solid and liquid waste generated by the tanning process thus poses a major challenge of waste treatment and management.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Pollutant discharge standards</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The pollutant discharge standards have been specified by respective Pollution Control Boards in different states of the country. Whereas Minimum National Standards (MINAS) have been prescribed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the state boards have been authorized to introduce more stringent norms according to the local situation. The standards generally applicable refer to pH, BOD, COD, TSS, TDS, Cr and these vary according to the recipient – such as surface discharge, for irrigation, marine discharge or sewer discharge. Generally there is no limit for TDS prescribed if marine discharge is authorised. With regard to sewer discharge too, depending on the dilution potential available, TDS limits may be modulated.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Nature of liquid waste and treatment process</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>It is desirable to know a little about the nature of pollutants in the liquid waste. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The liquid waste carries both suspended and dissolved solids. The suspended solids consist of dirt and particles of raw hides shaken off the raw material, some traces of dissolved hair, fleshings, leather pieces, leather dust etc. Generally, these suspended solids are either removed by the screening process, by use of fine screens or settled by chemical process and withdrawn as sludge. These are also removed by biological treatment in the aeration tanks or by anaerobic process. In this manner, pH, BOD, COD, TSS and Cr standards are achievable by physio-chemical and biological treatment in the waste treatment plants. The suspended solids are removed as sludge from the effluent treatment plants. It has been estimated that 3-4 kg of dry solid sludge is generated by treating 1-m3 of wastewater. The process adopted is generally referred to as conventional waste treatment system.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The dissolved solids however pose a major challenge. This consists of ions of sodium chloride, sodium sulphate and carbonates. Traces of dyes are also found. Conventional waste treatment systems do not provide for treatment of dissolved solids. In developed countries the treated effluent high in TDS is diluted in sewage treatment plants before discharge. In some locations, marine discharge is practised. Where such options are absent, such as in Tamil Nadu, for dealing with such pollutants, expensive reverse osmosis (RO) technology only can be employed. The reject of RO system has to be evaporated either by natural process using solar energy or through suitable mechanical system of evaporation. The mechanical process is energy intensive and very expensive.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Solid waste management</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>With regard to solid waste management, there are a variety of end-uses for the same. Typically, the solid wastes generated in tanneries are converted into by-products as shown in Table 1.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U-t9eGh7eOs/T_cGFWk3NkI/AAAAAAAAAxg/VzR4sste0PI/s1600/258D80A6%2540A773E92B.0F06F74F-713652.jpg"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U-t9eGh7eOs/T_cGFWk3NkI/AAAAAAAAAxg/VzR4sste0PI/s320/258D80A6%2540A773E92B.0F06F74F-713652.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5762080937273144898" /></a>It has been observed that the factories in India converting the solid waste into various products are in the micro- and small-scale sector, employing basic technologies. With more efforts and focus, it is possible to increase value realization from such waste by employing superior technologies and producing better quality and variety byproducts. Italy and Spain have modern factories processing different solid waste of tanneries to high value-added products.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Currently, the sludge generated within tanneries as well as in the ETPs and CETPs is deemed hazardous in India and many other countries because these contain chromium, though in its trivalent form. It is therefore required to dump such sludge in secure landfill. In advanced countries like the USA, such sludge is not treated as hazardous because trivalent chromium is not deemed harmful. Be that as it may, many experiments have been done in India to demonstrate that such chromium in the sludge could be immobilized. In India, bricks, both burnt and unburnt, have been made using such sludge with clay and small quantity of cement. Also manure has been made using sludge and vegetable waste. These products displayed immobilization of chromium. At one point of time, CPCB has allowed use or disposal of sludge containing chromium upto 5000-ppm provided it was trivalent, but this notification was withdrawn sometime later. As of date, such sludge is deemed hazardous in India and hence it has to be disposed in safe and secure landfills. Apart from the cost aspect for creating new secure landfills, land is not easily available in the neighborhood of tannery districts.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Liquid waste management</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>First, let us briefly deal with the end-of-pipe treatment before looking at process technology options.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The discharge standards vary from location to location, with Kolkata opting for marine discharge standards and Kanpur (Jajmau) for sewer standards. But in Tamil Nadu surface discharge standards have been prescribed, which calls for reaching TDS level of 2100-ppm in treated effluent with chloride and sulphate being less than 600-ppm. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The TNPCB has directed that all tanneries in the state should go in for zero liquid discharge (ZLD) system of treatment with the twin objectives of recovery of process water and prevention of contamination of ground water and soil. The calls for employment of RO/mechanical evaporation systems. In terms of capital investment, it works out to more than Rs. 1.5 lakhs additional investment per cubic meter of wastewater treated. With regard to O&M cost, it is about Rs. 120 per cubic meter, about four times the operational cost of conventional treatment systems. It is noteworthy that 65% of the cost of operation of a ZLD system is accounted for by energy and fuel for boiler. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Of the 15 CETPs in the state, 13 have opted for ZLD system. The rest have the option of sewer discharge. Two ZLD systems are operational at Perundurai and Melvisharam; three covering four CETPs are under stabilization at Thuthipet, Maligaithope and Vaniyambadi; five, covering six CETPs at Pallavaram, Ranipet (3) and Pernabut are to be commissioned before end of March 2012. While the one at Dindigul has the option of sewer discharge, yet it is opting to go for ZLD too. Besides, it is reported that about 50 individual tanneries have their own RO systems. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Though it has been established that technologically it would be feasible to establish ZLD systems, its sustainability is a major question. Some advantages of the ZLD system include recovery of almost the entire wastewater for reuse, less consumption of chemicals due to improved process water and prevention of contamination of soil and ground water by high TDS effluent. In due course of time, the land and ground water contaminated earlier will be able to recoup. But, ultimately, the tanneries have to survive in a fiercely competitive global market!</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The issue of sustainability of ZLD system has to be viewed from the points of view of:</FONT></P> <DIR> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Improving process technology thus reducing pollution, especially of TDS;</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Stabilising process parameters for O&M of the ZLD system; and </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Seeking support of government in critical areas for this unique environmental initiative. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></DIR> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>While improvements in process technology may help the situation to an extent, unless strong government support is forthcoming, it is quite likely that the industry will face very serious difficulties, which may result in closure or migration of a good number of tanneries from Tamil Nadu. It will be a pity if this laudable initiative is not enabled to succeed.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Improved process technology</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>It is against this background that the issue of improved tanning technology has to be viewed. With mounting cost of waste treatment, the question naturally arises as to whether the generation of such voluminous polluting wastewater could be controlled. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) has been constantly looking for ways of introducing new technologies at different stages, which could reduce both volume and pollution intensity of wastewater. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Water conservation</FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>This is a key objective, as tanneries will be charged as per volume of wastewater discharged.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>It involves recycling of various streams of wastewater, such as counter-current soaking, liming, reliming, pickling and chrome liquor. The technology is well demonstrated in actual working environment in tanneries, and besides reducing water consumption, helps improve absorption of chemicals. Current uptake of these technologies has been few and far between. One reason is that many tanners being job tanners do not want to adopt any new process that could impact on quality of leather as others provide the raw material.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Reduction of TDS</FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>This is achieved by:</FONT></P> <DIR> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Enzymatic/other methods of curing of hides and skins, eliminating or reducing salt used for preservation (50% reduction in volume of salt used possible);</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Mechanical or manual desalting of hides and skins: about 15% of salt could be removed in this process;</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Enzymatic unhairing: this helps eliminate or reduce use of sulphide in the process and recover undissolved hair;</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Pickle-less tanning, which reduces TDS by about 30% overall;</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Carbon dioxide deliming; and</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Chrome recovery and reuse.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></DIR> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>These technologies have been adopted only by a few. Minimum duration of preservation is 40-45 days and hide dealers are not confident of any preservative other than salt.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Perhaps charging tanners according to volume and intensity of TDS may help them move towards these technologies.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>REACH standards - Residual Substances Limit in the European Union</FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Limits have been prescribed for 44 chemicals, not all relevant for tanneries. More are on the anvil. CLRI constantly keeps tab, and advises industry in advance of alternatives.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>New technologies with multiple objectives</FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=4 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify></P></FONT></FONT><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Three step tanning</FONT></P></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The approach involves, removal of hair, flesh and fibre opening using biocatalysts and sodium hydroxide at pH 8.5 for cow hides. This is followed by a pickle-free chrome tanning, which does not require a basification step. Hence, this tanning technique involves primarily three steps: dehairing, fibre opening and tanning leading to near zero waste tanning.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Integrated wet finishing process</FONT></P></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>A compact wet finishing process has been developed for making both upper and garment leathers. The process provides leathers having comparable or even better physical and bulk properties to that derived from conventional wet finishing process. The water consumption is reduced significantly by 73% for processing 1-tonne of wet blue shaved leathers which is one of the pioneering achievements. This success story led the researcher to design and develop process for integrating tanning and wet finishing of leather processing.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Colouring leathers naturally; gains importance</FONT></P></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>An attempt has been made to colour leathers using natural dyes such as Rhine, Rhine M, Indus, Pacific, Caspian, Henna and modified Logwood. Twenty-four shades were developed using combination of seven natural colorants by mordanting with three metal ions. Sixteen developed colours have potential value in the global leather market in the context of environmentally benign leather processing.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Reverse leather processing through fundamental changes</FONT></P></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>A new greener and cleaner processing could be developed which will revolutionise the leather tanning industry. Reverse leather tanning works backward from the point where conventional tanning ends. The methodology saves time, energy and chemicals, along with reduction in water usage and pollution load.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Eco-efficient leather processing for clean and green leather</FONT></P></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The process involves salt-free curing, lime and sulphide-free beam-house process and post-tanning followed by tanning employing a reverse leather processing technique. The functional performance of the leather is found to be on par with that of conventionally processed leathers. The rationalized leather process reduces the usage and discharge of chemicals and also makes a significant reduction in pollution loads.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Zero emission research initiative for leather – a way forward</FONT></P></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Water recycle and reuse method based on zero wastewater discharge from beam house has been developed and standardized at semi-technical scales. In the new methodology, water consumption is reduced from 17-litres to 1.7-litres for one kg of hide in raw to wet blue processing. This approach can, in principle, lead to water renovation and recycle in individual tanneries through applications of membrane and other advanced technologies.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>While all these new technologies have been developed b the CLRI with a view to help industry cope with the new challenges faced by them in environment management, given the structure of the industry, with SMEs dominating and many working as job tanners, it is a major challenge as to how to make them take to these very useful technologies.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Stabilising process parameters for the O&M of ZLD systems</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>As indicated elsewhere, the ZLD system using UF/RO/mechanical evaporators for treatment of tannery wastewater has been introduced for the first time in the world in Tamil Nadu. Even suppliers of RO systems/evaporators are not quite aware of the ideal process parameters as they are dealing with this type of wastewater for the first time. Indian Leather Industry Foundation (ILIFO), Chennai, has some experience of monitoring operation of some ZLD systems in ETPs of tanneries, but such ETPs do not have mechanical evaporators and instead resort to accelerated solar evaporation of the RO reject. Though some data is available for operation of ZLD in ETPs, dealing with the CETPs where wastewater is discharged by a number of tanneries producing different types of products, poses a different set of problems.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>RO is basically a filter with very minute apertures and through which wastewater is passed at great pressure to filter out the dissolved solids. Physical parameters such as pressure, back washing for periodical cleaning of the membranes etc. can be controlled. But with regard to the impact of specific pollutants that cause blockage, corrosion, scaling, etc. there are no benchmarks yet. Reasonable precautions have been taken to arrest all pollutants, including organics through DMF and organic scavenger prior to applying wastewater on the RO. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Suffice it to say that the O&M operators, contractors and suppliers are jointly working towards stabilizing the process parameters. The longer the life of the UF/RO membranes and the evaporator, the lower will be the O&M cost of the system over a period of time.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Areas of Government support</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Support of the government is critical for survival of the industry at this juncture. The industry has no doubt demonstrated its sincerity towards complying with the TNPCB direction regarding ZLD system, despite heavy cost. But, now the government must extend a helping hand to enable the industry remain competitive.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Concessional power tariff </FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>As pointed out earlier, power and fuel for boiler are main contributors to O&M cost of ZLD system – working out to about 65% of the cost of operation. The power tariff for ZLD systems is on usual industrial/commercial rates. It is learnt that for sewage treatment plants operated by municipalities, the power tariff is different. If the sewage treatment systems in the tannery districts were operational, there may have been no need for the ZLD system at all. It is therefore desirable that the concessional tariff extended to sewage treatment plants may be also extended to the ZLD systems operated by the industry. This will provide some relief.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Recovery & usage of salts</FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The as yet unresolved issue of what to do with the solid salt recovered from the ZLD system needs tackling. Some efforts are underway to segregate these different salts and either use or sell these. After a technology is found, we have to find an investor to invest in a plant to recover different salts.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>TNPCB had initiated discussion with the industry and R&D institutions in this regard. It is appropriate that the TNPCB may engage its experts to find other alternative means of use or disposal of the same. The CETPs will have to keep the recovered salt stored in safe condition until a viable alternative emerges.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Crisis fund for CETPs </FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The members of all CETPs are generally from the SME sector, many of who lead a hand-to-mouth existence. If any upheaval takes place in the marketplace, they would be the first to suffer.In order to ensure that such temporary setbacks do not result in the ZLD systems not being able to collect the O&M cost from members, a way out has to be found. A designated fund may be created to be kept at the disposal of a state agency, to extend interest-free loan to such CETPs as may need it, for meeting such crisis situations. Generally CETPs should be able to overcome such difficulties in a season or two.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><I><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Temporary closure of CETPs</FONT></P></B></I></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>From a technical point of view, it has to be realized that the ZLD system, like any other system, is liable to face sudden technical problems necessitating temporary closure for repair etc. But it would de virtually difficult to halt production in tanneries, as they would have commitments to meet. It is therefore for consideration that over a one-year period CETPs be allowed discharge effluent, after secondary and tertiary treatment, or after RO, for a maximum of 20 days, at any rate, not more than 3 days consecutively on any one occasion. Such a provision is necessary to avoid tanneries resorting to subterfuges when faced with a crisis.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Assistance for technology upgradation</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>The ZLD systems may need upgradation at an interval at an interval of five years or so. When major capital expenditures are required to be made, such investments may be treated as upgradation and the CETPs made eligible to drawn assistance from the Government towards capital expenditure, to extent of 50%. Wherever alternative to ZLD may exist or emerge, such as dilution by sewage or marine disposal, tanneries should be encouraged to avail such alternatives.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left><FONT size=4>Way forward</FONT></P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT face="Times New Roman"><FONT face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>ZLD systems now demanded in Tamil Nadu may, in future, become the norm in other parts of the country. In fact, some other countries, including Italy, are closely watching the developments in India.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>If this is an irreversible situation, it makes sense for tanners to look for ways and means of:</FONT></P> <DIR> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Conserving use of water in the process;</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Achieve better absorption of chemicals in leather; and </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Reduce the generation of TDS to the maximum extent feasible. </FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P></DIR> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>Evaporation of rejects is a very expensive component of treatment cost and therefore, it makes eminent sense to reduce TDS content in effluent to the maximum extent by suitable in-process control measures. Modern and new process technologies can only provide answers. Bio-processing is a promising alternative.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>It is necessary for tanners to have an open mind to embrace these new opportunities. It is equally necessary for the government to keep an open and sympathetic mind and extend a helping hand to the industry to overcome teething troubles in the initial years. There may be initial hiccups, but if the objective is clear and the technology provider is confident, there is no reason why the industry cannot move ahead in this direction.</FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4></FONT></P> <P align=justify><FONT size=4>(Lead lecture at LERIG 2012 held at CLRI, Chennai, on 28 January 2012)</FONT></P></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-91879814140805583622012-07-06T08:56:00.000-07:002012-07-06T08:27:00.217-07:00New natural resource base in the chemical industry – only a matter of time<DIV> <H1><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN lang=EN>s raw materials become increasingly scarce and expensive and the effects of global warming become progressively evident, the scientific, business and government communities along with society at large are developing strategies aimed at a structural transition from the fossil-based economy to the bio-based economy. Chemical production is no exception. Although only about 8% of total oil production output is supplied to the chemical industry, increasing the proportion of renewables in the feedstock mix appears to have definite advantages.</H1> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>The list of benefits includes a reduction in CO<SUB>2</SUB> emissions from fossil sources, access to complex structures produced by natural synthesis and higher consumer acceptance of bio-based products. This, of course, assumes price competitiveness and a characteristics profile, which is at least comparable, and that depends on high raw material and process efficiency. Examples include plastics, bio-based solvents, surfactants and lubricants where biodegradability and the avoidance of harmful emissions are primary considerations. REACH regulations could also lead to increased use of bio-based substances in the chemical industry.</P> <P align=justify></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left>Bio-based polymers</P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify>According to information published by the trade association Plastics Europe, around 265-mt (million tonnes) of plastics were produced worldwide in 2010. That equates to 6% of global oil consumption, which was nearly 4-bt (billion tonnes) (BP Statistical Review of World Energy, 2011). In contrast, only 0.7-mt of bioplastics were produced during that year. Growth however has been forecasted to be enormous. According to current estimates presented by Hans-Josef Endres (University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Hannover, Germany) during a talk in November 2011, the figure is now approaching 1.7-mt, which equates to an annual increase of 20%.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Bioplastics are however a heterogeneous group, which includes bio-based as well as fossil-based plastics as long as they are biodegradable. Traditional biodegradable plastics are made from the natural polymers cellulose and starch. Then in the 1990's, the thermoplastic polymer polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), which is used by bacteria as energy storage, was placed on the market under the trade name Biopol. This was the first biopolymer, which was used as a compostable alternative to PE in packaging applications. In recent years, however, the approach has been not to use biopolymers directly. Instead biotechnology or chemical techniques are employed to extract monomers from renewable feedstock to provide a basis for new (functional analogue) or traditional (structural analogue) polymers.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Currently the most popular functional analogue bio-based plastic is polylactic acid (PLA). PLA has properties similar to those of conventional mass-produced thermoplastics and can be processed on existing production lines. Because it is compostable, PLA has considerable potential for throwaway packaging such as beverage cups and plastic food packaging trays. One disadvantage of PLA is its low melting point, which makes it unsuitable for items that are exposed to heat.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Biotechnology and chemical techniques are used in combination to make the lactide polyester. Sugar or starch is fermented to make lactic acid, and a chemical dimerization process is then used to produce lactide. Finally, ring-opening polymerization is performed on the lactide monomer.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Industrial production of PLA got underway in 1994. Worldwide production capacity exceeded 110,000-tpa in 2010. Production plants are located in the US, the Netherlands and China, and additional production facilities are scheduled for construction in countries like Thailand. According to information provided by Hans-Josef Endres (Bioplastics and Biocomposites Institute at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Hannover, Germany), production capacity is expected to double by 2015. Although PLA has good biocompatibility because it is bio-based, development of recycling or composting infrastructure could drastically improve its biocompatibility. Intensive research is currently underway on how to do that. At the moment for logistical reasons, incineration is the only option.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>An entirely different approach is used for the production of bio-based polyethylene (PE). PE is not biodegradable, but established recycling paths exist, at least in Europe. By making the platform chemical ethylene from renewables, the existing value-added chains starting from the production of different plastics and continuing right through to the end-of-life scenarios can be utilized.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>In 2010, Braskem of Brazil launched production of a bio-based structural analog using bioethanol as the base. Two additional PE plants, as well as production facilities for polypropylene and PVC, have been announced with an expected completion date of 2015. PE production capacity will double. According to the 'World Bioplastics' study published by the Freedonia Group in 2011, Brazil is expected to start production of fully bio-based PET on an industrial scale by the end of the decade.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>The higher degree of functionalization (alcohol and acid groups) of bio-based monomers compared to fossil feedstock can be exploited in a variety of plastics applications. To cite some examples, bio-based dicarboxylic acids (succinic acid) and polyols (castor oil, 1,3-Propandiol) are used in bio-based polyesters. Polyols are also used in polyurethane. Dehydration of lactic acid produces acrylic acid, a monomer of polyacrylic acid. Other acrylate polymers can be made through esterification of acrylic acid with castor oil or epoxidized vegetable oils. Butadiene, which is used in the production of synthetic rubber, can be made from ethanol. Castor oil derivatives are used in polyamides.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Many of these examples involve fine chemicals currently sold in niche markets where special functionality provides a unique selling point, which justifies the higher product price. These features may include biodegradability or surface-specific properties such as reduced foaming in beverage cups as in the case of PLA. Further market penetration depends not merely on production costs and availability. Complete recycling systems are also needed to ensure resource-efficient production (and use).</P> <P align=justify></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left>Bio-based lubricants</P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify>According to information contained in the 'World Lubricants' report published by the Freedonia Group in 2011, worldwide demand for lubricants was 36.7-mt in 2010. That figure is expected to rise to around 42-mt by 2015. The German Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR) reported that more than 1-mt of lubricants are used in the country each year, including 35,000-tonnes of biolubricants (3 %).</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Biolubricants are not the same as bio-based lubricants. They include all lubricants that are readily biodegradable, regardless of whether they are bio-based, mineral-based, made with recycled oil or synthetic. Because this terminology is used, bio-based lubricants are not listed separately. Price is (still) an impediment to widespread use of biolubricants, which are two to three times more expensive than conventional lubricants, according to a market study conducted by Global Industry Analysts.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>In contrast to mineral-based lubricants, bio-based lubricants are generally made from vegetable oil. Depending on requirements, they are used either in their native state (natural ester) or they are chemically modified (synthetic ester). The range of applications for bio-based lubricants covers the entire spectrum of conventional lubricants, including hydraulic oil, multi-function oil, engine and transmission oil, lube oil and grease and special oils. The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) recommends a biogenic content in excess of 25 % (CEN Technical Report 16227).</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Because of their long service life, low toxicity and fast biodegradability, bio-based lubricants are particularly attractive for environmentally-sensitive applications. Offshore wind power generation is a particular challenge.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Although work is still in the R&D phase, there are already indications that bio-based lubricants may be suitable for wind power applications. By nature, bio-based lubricants provide better lubrication than comparable mineral-based products. They contribute to improved system operation in a number of ways, and they have good handling characteristics and superior filterability. A new research project (Win Lub II) has been launched to assess the suitability and compatibility of bio-based lubricating grease and hydraulic oils at major component manufacturers under the direction of Fuchs Europe Schmierstoffe.</P> <P align=justify></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left>Bio-based solvents</P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify>In a study carried out on behalf of the German Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi), the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI) estimated that the global solvents market is in the region of 19.7-mt per annum. At least 12.5% of the total market volume could be produced from biomass, but the current figure is only 1.5%. Solvents are fluids that are able to dissolve, dilute or extract other substances, without changing the chemical composition of the substances or of the solvents themselves. Solvents belong to the aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbon, alcohol, ketone, ester, ether, glycol ether and halogenated hydrocarbon groups.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Production of most solvents is based largely on fossil feedstock. Due to sustainability and environmental protection considerations, the spectrum is expected to shift towards bio-based solvents. The list of new bio-based solvents includes things like fatty acid methyl esters, which are also used in biodiesel, and esters of lactic acid with methanol (methyl lactate) or ethanol (ethyl lactate), as well as natural substances such as D-limonene, which is obtained from the rind of citrus fruits.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Another trend is to replace conventional organic solvents with biogenic solvents. Conversion of bio-based succinic acid or furfural (a by-product of the cellulose industry) to tetrahydrofuran (THF) is one example.</P> <P align=justify></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left>Bio-based surfactants</P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify>Bio-based surfactants (surface-active molecules) are produced by microbial fermentation or enzyme-catalyzed reactions. </P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>Surfactants normally contain both hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups. In the case of bio-based surfactants, at least one of these groups is made from renewable resources.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>The bio-based hydrophobic group is usually made from coconut oil or palm kernel oil. A hydrophilic group is normally made from carbohydrates such as sorbitol, sucrose or glucose. The use of animal fat has significantly decreased.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>In contrast, the market for bio-based surfactants is expanding. Due to their good biodegradability and low to zero toxicity, they are used in specific applications by the paint, cosmetic, textile, agricultural, food and pharmaceutical industries. The mining and ore processing industry uses them as an emulsifier to facilitate oil production and for biological cleanup of contaminated sites.</P> <P align=justify></P></FONT></FONT><B><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT color=#ed1c24 size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=left>Outlook</P></B></FONT></FONT></FONT><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> <P align=justify>Given the scenario described at the beginning of the article, bio-based products are clearly in the ascendency. The question is not whether the chemical industry will exploit a new resource base. It is only a question of when. Biological feedstock has been used for a long time to make surfactants, so the transition should be relatively easy, assuming that adequate bio-based alternatives are available.</P> <P align=justify></P> <P align=justify>In the plastics sector, it appears that eco criteria will not initially be the prime consideration in the search for bio-based alternatives. Instead, the feedstock will simply be substituted, as is the case with PE and other plastics derived from ethylene. However, the availability of ethylene made from ethanol will be a limiting factor – 8.5-mt of bioethanol would be needed just to supply a substitute for the 5-mt of ethylene used each year in Germany. That is ten times the country's current production capacity!</P></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-25806096470162129312012-07-05T19:38:00.000-07:002012-07-05T19:08:35.779-07:00‘Shale gas brings about exceptionally bright outlook for US chemical industry’<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>TA</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span lang="EN-GB">LOW-COST FEEDSTOCK:</span></span></span></span></p> <span lang="EN-GB">The past two years have seen a dramatic change in the outlook for US chemical companies. In 2010, the industry seemed well rationalised, but with few opportunities for significant revenue growth and - outside of R&D - little expansionary investment. However, with commercialisation of shale gas in the US, the industry has seen a remarkable turn of fortune, according to a recent KPMG report.</span> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">According to KPMG's chemical industry specialists, the outlook for US chemical companies feels overwhelmingly upbeat. With a new and abundant source of low-cost feedstock, the US market has suddenly transformed to become one of the most advantageous markets for chemical production in the world.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Abundant reserves of shale gas in the US has driven down the natural gas price and created a massive competitive advantage for US companies. The cost implications for the US chemical industry have been impressive. Generally, a ratio of 5-1 between crude oil and gas prices is enough to make the US chemical environment 'favourable'. At today's prices, the disparity is more like 9-1, creating lasting advantages for US producers. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Need to cultivate emerging markets</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">However, according to KPMG, there remain a number of risks on the horizon. The first - and likely most problematic - is that the exponential addition of new capacity in the chemical industry will lead to an oversupply that outstrips demand within the national market, returning the industry to the cyclicality that was such a problem in the past. Tied to this are the growth projections for global chemical sales. While the US economy has returned to growth, overall it remains a mature market, which cannot absorb all of the announced new capacity. Similarly, Europe and Japan have seen somewhat sedate growth, while the emerging markets have boomed ahead with China, India and Latin America in the lead.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">"Clearly, US chemical companies will need to place strong focus on developing their supply lines into the new growth economies, and this will require a significant transformation of operating models for US companies who have traditionally been focused on the domestic marketplace," said Mr. Mike Shannon, global and US leader of KPMG's chemicals and performance technologies practice. "The opening up of many emerging markets to import growth can be a slow and complex process, and US chemical companies need to take actions today that will guarantee markets for products to be produced in four or five years time," he added. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">PROJECT PROGRESS</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Sabic-ExxonMobil jv moves ahead on speciality elastomers project</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The 50:50 joint venture of Sabic and ExxonMobil – Al-Jubail Petrochemical Company (Kemya) – is going ahead with the construction of a world-scale speciality elastomers facility at the Jubail complex in Saudi Arabia.</span><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The companies have approved the next stage of project development – engineering, procurement and construction (EPC). The facility will have the capacity to produce up to 400,000-tpa of rubber – including halobutyl, styrene butadiene, polybutadiene and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubbers – thermoplastic speciality polymers, and carbon black to serve local markets, the Middle East and Asia. Kemya has awarded the EPC contract for the elastomers facility to Technip, Tecnicas Reunidas and Daelim. The facility is expected to be completed in 2015.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Sabic and ExxonMobil Chemical have collaborated closely since 1980 when they established the joint venture to produce polyethylene, ethylene and propylene. The new synthetic rubber project represents a significant broadening of this portfolio. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Along with the elastomers facility an High Institute for Elastomer Industries; a vocational training centre in Yanbu; a product application centre in Riyadh; and thermoplastic polyolefin compounding and inventory management facilities in Jubail will also be set up.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">DOWNSTREAM DEVELOPMENT</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Saudi Arabia to promote plastic park</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Saudi Aramco Entrepreneurship Center Company Ltd (Wa'ed) and Sadara Chemical Company have agreed to promote the PlasChem Park in Jubail Industrial City II in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia to local small and medium enterprises. The park is presently a effort between Sadara and the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu to establish an industrial park for chemical and conversion industries in Jubail.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Wa'ed is a newly formed company, wholly-owned by Saudi Aramco, as a major financer and incubator of new businesses in Saudi Arabia. The park will be located next to the Sadara complex in Jubail to enable the establishment of downstream businesses. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">CRUDE OIL TRENDS</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">'Global oil consumption growth slows down in 2011'</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Global oil consumption increased by 0.7% in 2011 to reach an all-time high of 88.03-mbpd (million barrels per day), according to new research conducted by the Worldwatch Institute. This rate of increase was considerably slower than in 2010, when oil consumption rose by 3.3% following a decline of 1.3% in 2009 due to the global financial crisis. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">China's oil consumption increased by 5.5% in 2011, and China accounted for about 85% of global net growth in oil use. An increase in oil consumption of 5.7% in the former Soviet Union contributed another 37% of net growth. But these increases were offset by declines in the US and European Union, where oil consumption fell by 1.8% and 2.8% respectively, according to Worldwatch Climate and Energy Research Associate, Ms. Shakuntala Makhijani.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The gap in oil consumption between countries in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and all other countries narrowed further in 2011, with the two groups respectively accounting for 51.5% and 48.5% of total oil consumption. Oil remained the largest source of primary energy worldwide in 2011, but its share fell for the twelfth consecutive year to 33%. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Oil production trends</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">To meet continued growth in demand, global oil production rose for the second year in a row, by 1.3% in 2011, to reach 83.58-mbpd. Most of this increase was driven by higher production in OPEC countries, which overall grew by 3% in 2011. Meanwhile, oil production in non-OPEC countries fell 0.1%. Oil production growth was slow compared with natural gas and coal production, which grew by 3.1% and 6.1%, respectively, in 2011.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Political unrest in the Middle East and North Africa had a significant effect on oil production in certain countries in the region. Output in Libya fell 71% in 2011 – from 1.7-mbpd (2% of global production in 2010) to just 0.479-mbpd (0.6% of global output) due to the disruptions related to the civil war. At the same time, tense political situations and violence in Iran, Syria and Yemen resulted in production declines of 0.6%, 13.7% and 24%, respectively, in 2011. The global impacts of the April 2010 Deepwater Horizon offshore drilling rig blowout and oil spill have been limited thus far, with reviews in most countries finding that existing safety requirements suffice to prevent similar accidents. Despite expanding offshore drilling efforts, the share of offshore oil is expected to remain steady at 30% of global oil production, due declining output from North Sea and Mexican offshore oil wells. Deepwater oil production is expected to constitute a growing portion of this production and is projected to go from 6% of total global oil supply today to 9% by 2016. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">"Against the backdrop of fluctuating oil prices and concerns about supply risk, many countries are paying more attention to their dependence on imports and the stability of the countries they purchase oil from," said Ms. Makhijani. "In 2011, the US imported 60% of the oil it needed, Europe imported 90%, and imports accounted for 68% of China's oil consumption."</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Leading oil exporters</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt" lang="EN-GB">The Middle East remains the world's largest oil exporter, accounting for 36.2% of exports in 2011 and a growing share of the global market. The Soviet Union and the Asia Pacific region were the second and third largest exporters, with shares of 15.9% and 11.4%, respectively. Oil exports from North Africa fell by 32.8% in 2011 due largely to the disruptions in oil production caused by political instability in the region. Exports from the US grew by 19.4% in 2011, faster than in any other region, but they accounted for only 4.7% of the global market. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt" lang="EN-GB">PETROLEUM INFRASTRUCTURE</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Honeywell bags project to automate Kenyan fuel storage terminal</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Honeywell has won a $2.4-mn project to deliver a full automation solution for Petrocity's Greenfield Konza terminal storage facility in Kenya. The project includes comprehensive solutions for the pipeline receipt system, tank farm, truck loading system, and terminal automation, through 'Experion' Process Knowledge System (PKS) and Terminal Manager. It also includes all industrial security, emergency shutdown (ESD) and fire & gas (F&G) systems. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The new terminal facility is situated on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and will cater for Nairobi's growing demand for fuel, which accounts for more than 50% of the country's oil consumption. It will have a capacity to handle 120-mn litres of gasoline, diesel and kerosene – enough stock to fuel<a name="_GoBack"></a> Nairobi for up to two months – with infrastructure for product receipt, storage and distribution. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">CLEANUP COSTS</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">DuPont, Koch's Invista settle environmental case</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">DuPont Co has settled a $745-mn lawsuit brought by Koch Industries Inc's Invista unit over safety and environmental problems at plants once owned by DuPont. Terms of the settlement were not disclosed.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Invista is a large fibre and polymer producer that once comprised DuPont's textiles and interiors business, and which Koch purchased from DuPont for about $4.4-bn in 2004. Four years later, Invista sued to recover clean-up costs at facilities transferred in that sale, accusing DuPont of misleading it about health and safety conditions there. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">DuPont had countered that it was not responsible to cover clean-up costs because Invista had violated contractual terms relating to environmental indemnification. A non-jury trial expected to run eight weeks began on June 4 in the US, but was put on hold as the settlement was being worked out. In April 2009, the US Department of Justice said Invista agreed to pay a $1.7-mn civil fine and spend up to $500-mn to correct environmental problems at plants in seven US states.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Invista had earlier disclosed more than 680 regulatory violations to the US Environmental Protection Agency after auditing 12 facilities it had bought from DuPont. The Justice Department had called the accord the largest under the EPA's audit policy.</span><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Invista has several well-known brands including <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Lycra</i> fibre and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Stainmaster</i> carpet, and also makes nylon, which DuPont had invented in the 1930s.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt" lang="EN-GB">FLUOROCHEMICALS</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Arkema to expand PVDF production in France</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">French chemicals major, Arkema, is planning to invest around €70-mn to expand production capacity of its 'Kynar' brand of <span class="st">polyvinylidene difluoride (</span><em><span style="font-style:normal">PVDF</span></em><span class="st">) at its </span>the Pierre-Bénite site in France.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">This capital expenditure plan will help increase by 50% fluoropolymer production capacity in Pierre-Bénite by 2014. It also entails major technological advances such as the implementation of an innovative high purity process, a new effluent treatment plant, and a contribution to investments for the implementation of the site's technological risk prevention plan. The investment will consolidate the production chain around the Pierre-Bénite site, as well as the Saint-Auban site, which produces the monomer for some of the fluorogases.</span><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">In addition to European facilities at Pierre-Bénite, Saint-Auban and Zaramillo, Arkema operates world-scale fluorochemicals facilities in China and the US.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">COLLABORATION</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">PPG to license titanium dioxide technology to Chinese firm</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">US-based paints major, PPG Industries, has signed an agreement with China's Henan Billions Chemicals Co Ltd, by which PPG will license certain chloride-based technologies to Henan Billions for use at the firm's titanium dioxide (TiO<sub>2</sub>) refinement facilities in China. PPG has also inked a long-term purchase agreement for titanium dioxide with Henan Billions. Commercial terms of the agreements were not disclosed. PPG intends to use the chloride-based TiO<sub>2</sub> manufactured by Henan Billions for various end-use applications, including paints and other coatings. The TiO<sub>2</sub> also would be available for sale to third parties, a PPG release said.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">"This agreement with Henan Billions provides further evidence of PPG's commitment to utilise our existing expertise to expand and secure additional global supply of titanium dioxide," said Mr. Charles Kahle II, PPG Chief Technology Officer and Vice President, coatings R&D. PPG previously manufactured titanium dioxide using the chloride process at its chemicals facility in Natrium, USA, and sold titanium dioxide pigment for coatings and other end-use applications.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:red" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Sabic inks pact with German research organisation</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic) and Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, a leading German organisation for applied research, have recently signed a multi-year agreement in the Netherlands to jointly develop advanced technologies in areas such as light-weight construction and renewable energy. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Sabic is especially keen on research cooperation in fields such as light-weighting products, including polymeric materials and composites, and solar energy technology.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt" lang="EN-GB">GREENER OPTIONS</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Wacker eliminates boron-containing additives from silicone lubricant pastes</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Wacker has launched novel silicone lubricant pastes for the fitting of cable accessories for the transmission and distribution (T&D) industry. The pastes are free of boron-containing additives and therefore particularly environmentally- and user-friendly. Silicone pastes are used in many applications including as anti-friction and release agents, lubricants and sealants, as heat-sink media and for damping and insulating electrical components.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">In the past, small amounts of trimethyl borate were added in the production of silicone pastes. This improved the stability and shelf-life of the products. However, the additive can release boric acid, which has been listed as a hazardous substance by the EU since 2009 and classified as a 'Substance of Very High Concern' by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) since 2010. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Wacker said that it had stopped using this additive and instead started employing pyrogenic silicas and other additives that are not subject to mandatory labelling. "By modifying the formulation in this way, Wacker is now the first company to offer a completely boric-acid-free range of silicone pastes," a company release said.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">SPECIALITY CHEMICALS</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Forbo drops plans to sell construction-adhesives unit</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Forbo Holding AG, the Swiss maker of floor coverings, has abandoned a sale of the remnants of its adhesives business after talks with potential suitors ended.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Forbo evaluated the strategic options and pursued talks with interested parties in the business, which has annual sales of CHF100.4-mn ($105-mn), the company said. It plans to keep construction-adhesives within the group over the long term. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The company's Chief Executive Officer has largely dismantled the bonding division, selling an industrial-adhesives unit to H.B. Fuller in March for CHF370-mn. The CEO now considers having construction-glues sitting within the related flooring business as the best way forward, though the situation could still be revisited at a later date.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Adhesive makers are consolidating to build scale and expand their operations globally, with Henkel AG recently agreeing to buy an adhesives operation from Cytec Industries Inc for $105-mn. An additional litmus test to gauge investor interest in construction chemicals will be Wendel SA's possible sales of aluminates and admixtures units, valued at a potential €1-bn. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Forbo's construction adhesives unit has 270 employees and its main markets are the Benelux region, Germany, Russia, and Eastern Europe. Production facilities are located in the Netherlands, Germany and Russia, Forbo said.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">BETTER SERVICE</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">PolyOne expands innovation centre in China</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">PolyOne Corporation has opening its expanded customer-focused innovation centre in Shanghai, China. The centre has doubled in size and added new capabilities that will enable the company to better collaborate and develop customer-centred innovations, a company note said. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">"The Shanghai Innovation Center expansion underscores our commitment to collaborating with customers on specialised solutions that improve their profitability and speed to market," said Mr. John Van Hulle, President of PolyOne Global Color, Additives and Inks. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">In addition to the Shanghai centre in Asia, PolyOne also has innovation centres in Suzhou and Singapore and R&D facilities in Shenzhen, Tianjin, Dongguan and Thailand.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">DKSH acquires Australian speciality cables distributor</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Swiss firm DKSH has acquired ElectCables Pty Ltd, one of Australia's largest independent distributors of flexible cables and related equipment. ElectCables specialises in supplying cables to major industrial sectors including electrical, data, contracting, mining, and manufacturing. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">ElectCables will be integrated in DKSH's technology business unit. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">REGULATORY APPROVAL</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Wacker gets EU approval for using cyclodextrin as food ingredient</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Germany's Wacker has said it has received approval from the European Commission for the use of gamma-cyclodextrin as a food ingredient for foodstuffs and beverages in the European Union (EU).</span><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Cyclodextrins are ring-shaped sugar molecules, which Wacker bioengineers from plant-based raw materials such as corn or potatoes. In food applications, cyclodextrins can mask an unpleasant taste, stabilise sensitive food ingredients such as vitamins or increase the bioavailability of certain active agents. EU approval of gamma-cyclodextrin thus opens up a series of new applications in the European food industry for Wacker.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Wacker highlighted scientific studies, which showed that gamma-cyclodextrin is an ideal source of glucose that has a low impact on blood sugar and blood insulin levels. As it is tolerated well even when taken in large quantities, gamma-cyclodextrin is an ideal ingredient for foodstuffs whose purpose is delayed glucose release. Furthermore, cyclodextrins can also mask odour and taste, for instance the bitter taste of green-tea products and ginseng preparations, without diminishing the benefits of the bitter substances. Moreover, the bioavailability of functional ingredients, such as curcumin or coenzyme Q10, can be increased with the aid of cyclodextrins, the company said. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">GREEN PROCESS</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Oleon opens glycerine -based propylene glycol plant in Belgium</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Belgian oleochemical firm, Oleon, has started up a new manufacturing plant for producing 'bio' propylene glycol (PG) from glycerine in Ertvelde, Belgium. The plant is the first of its type worldwide, leveraging a highly sustainable production process developed and licensed by BASF and jointly realised with Oleon. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Historically, PG has been produced by means of hydrolysis from propylene oxide, which is obtained from crude oil. The starting material employed at the Ertvelde site is glycerine, primarily obtained from fats and oils generated as by-products of oleochemical production. As an additional benefit, the glycerine-based process used at the Ertvelde site requires fewer production steps than hydrolysis, increasing the efficiency of Oleon's 'bio' PG production.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">BASF not only researched the glycerine-based production technology it realised with Oleon, but also supplies the chemical catalysts that are key enablers for the advanced bio PG production process. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">PROJECT UPDATE</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Solazyme commissions integrated algal oil bio-refinery in US</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">US-based renewable oil and bioproducts company, Solazyme Inc, has commissioned its first fully integrated bio-refinery (IBR) in Peoria, Illinois (USA), to produce algal oil. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Solazyme has been running routine fermentations at commercial scale since 2007 and began running fermentation operations at the Peoria facility in Q4 2011. With the successful production of algal oil from the integrated facility in June, Solazyme has met its start-up goals for the facility on schedule.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The IBR was partially funded with a federal grant that Solazyme received from the US Department of Energy (DOE) in December 2009 to demonstrate integrated commercial-scale production of renewable algal-based fuels. The demonstration/commercial-scale plant will have a nameplate capacity of two million litres of oil annually. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">To maximise capital efficiency, Solazyme bought the existing Peoria fermentation facility in May 2011 and began retrofitting the former PMP Fermentation Products plant into an integrated demonstration/commercial-scale facility that will produce renewable tailored triglyceride. Solazyme has been operating at semi-commercial scale through contract manufacturers since 2007.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Solazyme and Bunge break ground on oils production facility in Brazil</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Solazyme and Bunge Global Innovation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bunge have broken ground on a 100,000-tpa renewable oil production facility adjacent to Bunge's Moema sugarcane mill in Brazil. The plant is targeted to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2013. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">LONG TERM CONTRACT</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Praxair to supply gases to Chinese coal-to-chemicals project</span></b><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Praxair China has signed a long-term supply contract with Yankuang Guohong Chemical Co Ltd and Yankuang Group to supply industrial gases to its coal gasification process for the production of methanol and downstream chemicals at its chemical park in Zoucheng city, in northern China. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Praxair will construct a large air separation facility with a capacity of 3,000-tpd (tonnes per day) of oxygen and purchase Yankuang Guohong's existing air separation units. The new plant is scheduled to start up in late 2014 and will replace Yankuang Guohong's existing air separation units. The liquid oxygen, nitrogen and argon produced from the existing air separation plants and the new facilities will be integrated with Praxair China's liquid production and distribution network in the region.</span><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">This will be the fourth large capacity air separation plant of 3,000-tpd or greater that Praxair has won in China. Two of these plants, of similar capacity, have been built and are currently operating in Zhenjiang, Jiangsu province and Wuwei, Anhui province, to supply customers in the coal based chemical industry. All of these plants are under long-term sale-of-gas contracts.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Cole-Parmer presents range of fluid handling & lab equipment at ACHEMA</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Cole-Parmer, a leading player in fluid handling, life science, general laboratory products, instrumentation, and equipment, presented a wide range of fluid handling and lab equipment at the global chemical engineering expo, ACHEMA 2012, held during 18-22 June in Germany.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The company showcased its 'Masterflex' high-performance peristaltic pumps that serve the biotechnology, chemical, industrial, research and development, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical industries, among others. In addition to the 'Masterflex C/L' (compact/low flow), L/S (laboratory/standard), and I/P (industrial/process) pumps, various tubing styles and pump heads were on show to demonstrate application-based pumping systems. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Lab equipment featured at the stand included rotational viscometer, which offers greater chemical resistance and the ability to withstand chemically corrosive materials. Other highlights included the 'StableTemp' modular block heaters that provide flexibility to heat different sizes of microtubes, centrifuge tubes, vials, microplates, and PCR strips or tubes; the 'Stir-Pak' high-speed, low-torque overhead stirrer system that allows users to customise components to suit their mixing application and 'Oakton' thermometers.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">ENERGY EFFICIENCY</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">AkzoNobel to employ unique caustic soda evaporation system</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">AkzoNobel Industrial Chemicals will apply a unique caustic soda evaporation system to its new membrane electrolysis plant at the Industry Park Höchst in Frankfurt, Germany. The system will enable 20% energy savings and will be supplied by Alfa Laval. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The evaporation system will concentrate caustic soda from 32 wt% solution to 50 wt% solution based on evaporation and condensation heat exchangers. By combining the advantages of different types of heat exchangers it is, for the first time, feasible to concentrate caustic soda in a four-effect evaporation system. This unique Alfa Laval design will enable energy savings of 20% compared to the best traditional designs. The installation will be built at AkzoNobel's new membrane plant in Frankfurt, which will have a capacity of 275,000-tpa of caustic soda.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:red" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Germany's PCC planning DME production in Russia</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">PCC SE of Germany and JSC Shchekinoazot of Russia have formed a joint venture for manufacturing aerosol quality dimethyl ether (DME) in Russia. DME is primarily used in the cosmetics industry as a blowing agent for hairsprays as well as for the manufacture of insulating foams (one-component PU foam). <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The production plant with a capacity of 20,000-tpa will come up at the site of JSC Shchekinoazot, which will also supply the key raw material – methanol – from its facility. Production start is slated to begin in 2014.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">FORECAST</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">HIV generics set to dominate the antivirals market</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Generics are predicted to take over the antiviral drugs market, especially in the case of HIV medication, as a series of patent expiries will open opportunities for ambitious companies to seize huge revenue, according to a new report by healthcare experts, GBI Research. The report states that an increase in the patient population and reforms in government policies will work together to encourage the rise of generic pharmaceutical powers.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">While it is estimated that, in 2010, generics accounted for 18.9% of the market share in the global antivirals market, this market share is forecast to grow to reach 29.2% by 2018. This is largely due to a series of patent expiries expected to hit the antiviral market, which will act to raise the value of generic antiviral drugs to over $9-bn by 2018, the report revealed. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Major patent expiries</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Generics in the HIV market, in particular, accounted for an estimated majority market share of 46% in the total generic antivirals market during 2010. HIV generics are expected to create a boom in the market, due to a loss of patent exclusivity for key antiviral drugs. The generic market is currently dominated by products such as zidovudine, didanosine, stavudine and lamivudine. However, many major patent expiries are expected during the period till 2018, including <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Sustiva</i> (efavirenz) and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Kaletra</i> (lopinavir + ritonavir) in 2013, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Prezista</i> (darunavir ethanolate) in 2014, and major Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs) such as <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Trizivir</i> (abacavir sulphate/lamivudine/zidovudine), <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Epzicom</i> (lamivudine and abacavir) and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Emtriva</i> (emtricitabine) in 2016. "By 2018, billions of dollars' worth of industry revenue will be lost from the expiry of these brand name products, and the race will be on for generics manufacturers to create new superstar drugs to make the most of this unmet need in the market," the report said. Generics within the antiviral market are forecast to grow at a CAGR of 10.5% during 2010-2018.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">In December 2011, Teva launched generic <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Combivir</i> in the US market as a combination tablet containing lamivudine and zidovudine, indicated in combination with other antiretroviral agents for the treatment of HIV-1 infection. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Combivir</i> had annual sales of approximately $556-mn in 2010. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">MEGA DEAL</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Bristol-Myers Squibb teams up AstraZeneca in $7-bn deal for Amylin</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Bristol-Myers Squibb has agreed to buy Amylin Pharmaceuticals, the maker of a promising new diabetes drug, in a complicated deal that is valued at about $7-bn. To help finance the transaction, Bristol-Myers is teaming up with AstraZeneca, which will pay about $3.4-bn in cash and will share in the profits from Amylin's sales. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">It is the latest deal by major drug companies to refill their product pipelines with new treatments, especially as older successful products lose their patent exclusivity.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Under the terms of the deal, Bristol-Myers will pay $31 a share in cash for Amylin, which is a 10% premium to the company's closing share price on June 29. It is also 51% higher than Bristol-Myers's original bid in February, which Amylin rejected but used as the basis for an auction of itself. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">As part of the deal, Bristol-Myers will assume debt and will make a payment to buy out Amylin's former partner, Eli Lilly & Company. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Bristol-Myers has been seeking new products to replace revenue from its top seller, the blood thinner 'Plavix', which began facing generic competition in May after generating $7.1-bn in sales last year. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Besides Bristol-Myers and AstraZeneca, others that reportedly made bids for Amylin included Novartis, Merck and Sanofi-Aventis. Drawing these companies' attention is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Bydureon</i>, a treatment for Type 2 diabetes that is injected once a week. It is a refinement of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Byetta</i>, which was introduced in 2005 and requires twice-daily injections. Both are derived from a hormone in the saliva of the Gila monster, a poisonous lizard found in the Southwestern United States and in Mexico. The two drugs are in the class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic the effect of glucagon-like peptide, a hormone that increases insulin production when blood sugar is high.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Albemarle expands API production at US facility</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">US-based speciality chemicals firm, Albemarle Corporation, has announced that its FDA-registered South Haven, Michigan site has expanded and upgraded its multi-product cGMP active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing facility. This expansion is the latest in a series of projects at the South Haven site to increase capabilities and production throughput. In the past two years, the number of custom API projects has more than doubled at the South Haven site. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">BRIGHT OUTLOOK</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">New report forecasts impressive growth for Russian pharma industry</span></b><span lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The Russian pharmaceutical industry will continue to expand due to government initiatives and increased healthcare spending, predicts a new report by healthcare business specialists, GlobalData. The report states that Russia's efforts to boost its pharmaceutical sector have been rewarded with strong and steady growth and the increased implementation of domestically produced treatments.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The country's pharmaceutical market soared from a 2005 valuation of $6.6-bn to almost three times that in 2010, when it was worth approximately $18.7-bn, climbing at a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23%. GlobalData expects this growth to continue at a less staggering, yet still impressive, CAGR of 9.5% to reach $46.4-bn by the end of 2020. This surge in value is attributed to the introduction of national programmes such as Health in 2006, and PharmMed 2020, which made its debut in 2009. As part of the latter, Russia has significantly increased R&D spending in the field of drugs innovation and created opportunities for the development of the healthcare industry. The Russian government has laid out goals to increase the domestic share of the pharmaceutical market to 50% by 2020, and the share of domestic innovative drugs to 60% by the same year. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Barriers to growth</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The report also highlighted the challenges facing the industry in Russia, including lack of clarity in regulatory systems and language barrier that results in foreign multinational corporations (MNCs) facing problems when attempting to register drugs and medical devices.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">On average, it takes 24 months to register a new drug in an application process that must be carried out in Russian. This often proves restrictive for MNCs who want to progress without seeking legal advice from local distributors or consultants. Furthermore, according to a new law that came into effect in 2010, foreign manufacturers must also conduct clinical trials in Russia prior to registration, and the results of international trials will only be accepted if they were conducted with the participation of Russian patients. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Entries called for</span></b><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">CPhI Pharma awards</b></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Event organiser UBM Live has invited exhibiting companies at the forthcoming CPhI Worldwide expo and concurrent events to participate in the annual 'CPhI Pharma Awards'. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The awards will honour companies and organisations breaking new ground in formulation, drug delivery systems, medical devices, packaging, chemical and bio manufacturing. The 'Best Innovation in Pharma' category will have a gold, silver and bronze winner. Additionally, there will be one winner each for the inaugural 'Best Sustainable Pharmaceutical Packaging Award' and the 'Best Sustainable Stand Design Award'. </span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">The CPhI Worldwide expo runs from October 9 to 11 at the Feria de Madrid in Spain and winners of the CPhI Pharma Awards will be announced on October 9. The call for the awards is open till 27 July 2012. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">"The CPhI Pharma Awards offer a unique and dedicated platform for companies to showcase groundbreaking innovations in front of a global audience. They exist to encourage and celebrate the spirit of continued innovation and advancement in the pharma industry and we are pleased that they have had such positive feedback over the last nine years," noeted Mr. Greg Kerwin, Pharma Portfolio Director.</span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">2011 award winners</span></b></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">Last year in Frankfurt, Glycotope won the gold award for the 'GlycoExpress' platform technology designed to optimise the glycosylation of antibodies and other glycosylated therapeutics. Acuros took silver for its novel disposable device for the continuous delivery of small volume parenteral drugs, which uses an osmotic actuation and needs no power supply. The bronze went to Johnson Matthey Catalysts for its 'Colour-Tag-Protein' technology that is used as a direct marker for protein expression, speeding up the development of new bioprocesses. <br></span></p> <p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">PRICE MOVEMENT</span></p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Lanxess announces price hikes</span></b><br><p class="MediumGrid2"><span lang="EN-GB">German speciality chemicals company, Lanxess, has announced global price increases for ion exchange resins and inorganic pigments, effective from July 1, 2012. The inorganic pigment prices are being increased by a minimum of Euro 100 per metric ton. 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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">INDUSTRY TRENDS: </span><span style="font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB"></span></p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB"></span></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Copies, fakes and imitations pose a problem for nearly every segment of industry including electronics, automotive products, apparel, music, food and investment goods. Counterfeiting is booming. Goods that used to be sold at bazars or under the counter are now available on the Internet to anyone anywhere. Imitations are not just a problem for consumers sitting in front of their PCs. Wholesalers and retailers, as well, are often victimized by sophisticated organized crime networks, which produce and distribute counterfeit products.</span></i> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">The cross-industry, pluri-lateral Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA), which was introduced in 2011, establishes an international legal framework for international cooperation, enforcement practices and exploitation of intellectual property rights.</span></i><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB"> <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Pharmaceutical industry closes ranks to combat product counterfeiting</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">A few industries have already set up organizations to combat product counterfeiting. The pharmaceutical industry is one of them. Few counterfeit products can have such serious consequences for consumers as imitation pharmaceuticals. Quite apart from the financial losses incurred by the companies involved, counterfeit drugs represent a danger to consumer health. The list of risks includes inefficacy, harmful substances and over- or under-dosage of the active ingredients. A few years ago in Africa, anti-freeze instead of glycerine was added to cough medicine, causing the deaths of several hundred people.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">The World Health Organization (WHO) has created the International Medical Products Anti-Counterfeiting Taskforce (IMPACT), which is attempting to bring nations together in an effort to stop the production, trade and sales of imitation pharmaceuticals. IMPACT is sponsored by international organizations, NGOs, law enforcement agencies, pharmaceutical trade associations, drug agencies and regulatory bodies. The list includes the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), WTO, the World Customs Organization (WCO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the European Commission and OECD. Taskforce Working Groups are addressing the legal framework, implementation and enforcement of regulations and anti-counterfeiting and traceability technology for pharmaceutical products, but no standardized worldwide solution is currently in place. One Working Group is looking specifically at international standardization of product marking. Until uniform worldwide standards are in place, marking technology suppliers are being asked to come up with anti-counterfeiting strategies. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Existing identification techniques</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">As is the case with any other commercial item, identification features on pharmaceuticals are used for product authentication and to deter counterfeiters. Identification methods, which are difficult to reproduce, create enormous difficulties for imitators, and the costs involved in making copies are considerable.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">There is a wide range of identification techniques to choose from, ranging from very simple to high-tech. Identification features can be added in different places including various parts of the packaging or on the product itself. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Anti-counterfeit identification technology is divided into three main categories:</span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left:.25in;mso-add-space:auto; line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">1.Overt (open/visible) technologies;</span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left:.25in;mso-add-space: auto;line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">2.Covert (hidden) technologies; and</span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left:.25in;mso-add-space: auto;line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">3.Forensic techniques.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Overt marking provides basic product identification information for consumers, knowledgeable professionals and customs agents. It is generally highly visible on the product. In the case of pharmaceuticals, the marking is applied to the vial or folding carton, and imitating it is difficult and costly. Examples include holograms, which may contain customer-specific designs. Optional hidden features, which are admissible as evidence in court, provide added counterfeit protection. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Colour shift ink, as well as security ink and foil that change colour depending on the viewing angle belong in this category. The ink and pigments are only available from certain manufacturers, which is an additional security aspect.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Marking on the product itself, for example a tablet, is an overt technique. It provides a certain level of security, because imitating tablet dies is costly and time consuming. In addition, colour shift ink can be applied directly to products such as coated tablets to produce changing colours. This provides protection against product substitution later on. Slanted corners or similar features can be added to the packaging to differentiate it from standard versions. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Security graphics created by printing fine lines, micro text or images similar to what you see on banknotes combine overt and covert design features such as guilloches, grids and line embossing. Printed using standard offset lithography, they may be used as a background or placed in a less conspicuous location. Overt features only provide protection, however, if dealers or consumers are aware of their significance.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Partially hidden markings straddle the boundary between overt and covert technologies. Examples include thermo-reactive printing, which changes colour as a function of temperature. Pressing a finger on the colour field is sufficient for immediate authentication. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Knowing where – hidden product validation identification</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Hidden markers are used among other things to enable brand owners to identify counterfeit products and remove them from circulation. Only the manufacturer should actually know the exact details of the markings. Consumers either do not notice them or are unable to verify their authenticity.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">This marking category includes such things as printing with invisible ink, which can be applied to virtually any product or packaging. The printing is visible under UV or infrared light and may fluoresce at different wavelengths and in different colours. Invisible images, which only appear when a special filter is used, can also be produced. Other options include the use of special fluorescent fibres, watermarks, metal threads, scents or chemical reagents in the product packaging. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">The printing can also be designed in such a way that it cannot be copied. Background patterns made of very fine lines look like plain colour surfaces, but an image that was not previously visible appears when the patterns are copied or scanned.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Application of digital watermarks is one of the more complex methods. To verify authenticity, readers and special software are used to recover data, which is digitally encoded in the watermarks. Laser coding is also complex and cost intensive, but that is precisely what makes it a very secure type of anti-counterfeit identification. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">High-tech methods provide almost total security</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Strictly speaking, forensic identification belongs to the covert category. Special equipment is needed to detect the markers, which are not visible to the naked eye and cannot be found using simple analysis techniques.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">This category includes various types of taggants. Chemical taggants and marking with isotopes in defined ratios, which can only be detected with highly specialized reaction and analysis techniques, are one example. Biological and DNA taggants are another possibility. Minute amounts added to the product formulation or packaging are sufficient for identification. Highly sophisticated analysis equipment is needed to detect these substances. Forensic markers such as micro taggants made of microscopic particles or threads, which contain encoded information require an equal amount of effort to detect. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">These markers are very effective, but they are also very expensive and consumers are not aware of them. They are primarily intended for extremely expensive pharmaceuticals and high-end products which counterfeiters often target. When imitators are at work, an effective method is needed to remove imitations from circulation.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Rather than relying on just one type of identification, a combination of different overt and covert technologies is often used. To make life as difficult as possible for counterfeiters, manufacturers do not reveal which methods they are using. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Traceability at any point in the supply chain</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Track & trace techniques have been used for years to mark and/or serialize products to ensure authenticity and provide traceability of batches and packages as they pass through the distribution channel.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Despite, or perhaps because of, the fact that these methods have been in use for so long, there is as yet no standardized worldwide approach to documentation. One simple solution is autonomous recording of product movements at each point in the supply chain. Electronic pedigree systems are another option. Serial numbers are passed along the supply chain, creating a distributed database containing electronic proof of origin. When complete end-to-end verification is implemented, each segment of the supply chain has an obligation to forward the product codes to a central server. The location of every product can then be determined no matter where it is, and the movement of goods can be traced after the fact using information that is available at a central location. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Whatever the method, every product must have a unique identifier, e.g. product name, batch number and possibly the expiration date. Additional product details, for example the distribution channel, can be included when the encoding is more complex. Making the coding or serialization more specific (e.g. pallets, cartons or individual packages) enhances the security of product authentication.</span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.25in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";" lang="EN-GB">A number of identification techniques are available, which provide varying degrees of anti-counterfeiting protection:</span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.25in; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";" lang="EN-GB">1.Barcodes;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";" lang="EN-GB">2.2D codes; and</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">3.RFID tags. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Linear barcodes have a proven track record, and they have been in use worldwide for many years. However, they can store only a limited amount of information, and they are hardly suitable for product individualization. As a general rule, they should have a certain minimum height. A number of different printing techniques are available for applying them to the product or packaging. Manufacturers are free to define their own barcodes, but ISO/IEC 15420 defines commercial barcodes such as European Article Number (EAN) and Universal Product Code (UPC), which ensure unique product identification worldwide. There are other forms of barcoding besides commercial barcodes such as Code 39, which is commonly used in industry, and 2/5 Interleaved, which packs a large number of digits into a small space to increase information density.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">The information density of 2D codes is even higher. Information is encoded in stacked barcodes, a rectangular matrix made up of individual pixels (e.g. QR codes), or circular barcodes (e.g. ShotCodes). Matrix codes, in particular, are used worldwide, and they can be scanned with CCD cameras. Nevertheless, matrix codes are not standardized either. Quick-response (QR) codes are very popular in Japan, whereas data matrix codes as defined in ISO/IEC 16022 are more widely used in Europe and the US. Other manufacturer-specific versions, such as the UPS MaxiCode, are also not uncommon. However, there are fewer matrix code versions compared to barcodes. For that reason and also because of the higher information density, matrix codes are more suitable for international product identification, which is standardized, unique and traceable. As an added security feature, any type of barcode or 2D code can be printed in invisible ink on the product or packaging. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">RFID (radio-frequency identification) works with transponders. Special readers extract the information and may write data back depending on the version. Printing techniques, which are now available for producing the transponders, make them much less expensive than they were just a few years ago. Nevertheless, they are still relatively expensive compared to barcodes and 2D codes. The equipment needed to read out the information is also generally more expensive than barcode scanners, etc.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">The tags consist of a microchip, an antenna and a substrate or enclosure. They may also require a power source depending on the design. State-of-the-art RFID tags can send encrypted data to the reader as an added security feature. In contrast to barcodes and 2D codes, visual contact is not necessary to read the data. The tags can be located inside sealed packaging for added product protection. However, RFID tags are not standardized worldwide and operating frequencies may vary. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">In addition to the traceability aspect, track & trace also helps to identify weaknesses in the logistics chain. Cost can be eliminated by increasing the efficiency of the distribution channel.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">No agreed method for identifying pharmaceuticals</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">The FDA already recommends the use of RFID tags, at least for identification of pharmaceuticals. The experts at IMPACT also see considerable potential in RFID technology. However, until the technology has reached a sufficient stage of maturity, they currently favour 2D codes, which have a proven track record. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">The European Union is currently working on standardized identification for pharmaceuticals. Directive 2011/62/EU of the European Parliament and the Council defines the information which must appear on the outer packaging of pharmaceuticals, which in the future will have to have certain security features that allow verification of the product's authenticity and prevent manipulation of the packaging. 2D codes are regarded as the most likely method of identification. Information such as a unique, randomized serial number, batch identifier, expiration date and Pharmacy Product Number (PPN) could be stored in the code.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Following the test phase for technical implementation of product serialization, which has been underway since December 2010, mandatory security features will be introduced in 2015. Matrix codes and a central database will provide the foundation for end-to-end verification. The extent to which consumers will be involved in the verification process is not yet clear. In any case, state-of-the-art communication devices such as smart phones give consumers new ways of detecting counterfeit products. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Packaging as an additional security factor</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Apart from specific identification techniques, there are other ways of making secure packaging. Besides the methods discussed above, the list of options includes sealing labels and adhesive strips, which prevent tampering or provide evidence that the packaging has been opened. These items can also be used as warranty seals, security labels or asset labels.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Labels can also help prevent counterfeiting. The adhesive, for example, can contain micro particles and fragrances, which are detectable after the label is opened. This, however, requires special equipment, and as a result these techniques are not very widespread. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Void labels are much more common. They are made so that lettering such as the word "Void" appears on the label and also on the product when the safety label is removed, and the label will no longer adhere. The text can be customized to include the batch number or expiration date. It is readily apparent when packaging has already been opened. Polyester security film is based on the same principle. A pattern appears when the film is removed, and the film will no longer adhere. Any tampering becomes obvious when the film is removed.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">"Destructible" foil can also be used to provide evidence that the packaging has been opened. The foil cannot be totally removed. Security perforation is based on a similar principle. The label tears along the perforation when any attempt is made to remove it. <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Numbered labels provide enhanced trace & track functionality. Each label has an individual number, which can be used for detailed traceability and also to verify authenticity. The overt, covert and forensic identification techniques discussed above can of course also be used for labels.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Summary</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;mso-hyphenate:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">Intelligent brand protection systems can deter counterfeiters if imitation of the identification/marking is made impossible or very costly. These technologies can also help clarify what is happening in the distribution and logistics chain and contribute to supply chain optimization.</span><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB"></span></p>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-36603784865424422742012-07-05T04:26:00.000-07:002012-07-05T03:56:29.509-07:00World Chlor-Alkali Conference 2012<!--[if !mso]> <style> v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> 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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">UNCERTAIN OUTLOOK</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Cautious chlor-alkali industry awaits economic & industrial revival</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">The marked economic slowdown in emerging markets like China and India, the Euro-zone crisis and general stagnation in the global economy is clouding the global chlor-alkali industry's near-term growth outlook. The industry, whose fortunes are intrinsically linked to GDP fluctuations, is tentative about how the aforesaid global events would unfold and repercussions on its growth prospects. Even as the industry is wary of the near-term prospects, there are hopes of better longer-term growth with possibilities of an industrial revival sometime after 2014. The shale gas revolution in the US has also given a shot in the arm to the North American chlor-alkali sector.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">These trends and developments were debated at length by leading industry experts at the 16<sup>th</sup> World Chlor-alkali Conference, co-organised by ICIS and Tecnon OrbiChem, in Singapore recently.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">In the chlor-alkali industry, electrolysis of sodium chloride solution (brine) gives 1.1 units of caustic soda for every unit of chlorine. This extremely energy-intensive process is carried out either by membrane, diaphragm or mercury cell technologies. The largest end-use for chlorine is in the manufacture of ethylene dichloride (EDC), which in turn is used to make vinyl chloride (VCM) and subsequently polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Large volumes of caustic soda are used in diverse end-uses, particularly within the chemical industry, but two dominate: alumina and the pulp & paper.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">For both caustic soda and chlorine, uses are well-established, but differing growth rates make managing the surpluses of one product (usually caustic soda) an integral part of the business dynamics.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">More sensitive to GDP</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Chlor-alkali is a cyclical business where the ECU value, which is the combined value of chlorine and caustic soda, tends to move up and down with a cycle time of about three years – when caustic soda prices are high, chlorine prices are low and vice versa.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">According to speakers at the event, the chlor-alkali industry entered 2012 in a reasonably healthy state, with a high dependence on the caustic soda side of production. In contrast, the chlorine side became progressively weaker during 2011 due to slow demand for PVC as the housing construction business struggled around the world. Given that chlorine is consumed in large quantities in infrastructure related sectors, weak chlorine markets (and strong caustic soda) are typical of an economic slowdown. Therefore, the possibility of a prolonged uncertainty in global economic conditions is an unwelcome development for the chlor-alkali industry.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">According to Mr. Mikiya Yamada, Managing Director, Equity Research, Barclays Capital Japan, the chlor-alkali industry is now more sensitive to global GDP movements. Almost 40% of PVC – which makes up for a large chunk of chlorine demand – is used in fixed assets. So chlorine is more affected by economic factors, he pointed out.</span></p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Chlorine growth on the anvil</span></b> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">"The global recession hit the chlor-alkali industry hard and it is only just starting to see some recovery," remarked Ms. Janet Wright, Business Manager - Chlor-alkali & Vinyls, Tecnon Orbichem, UK. Even though most end-use areas of chlorine had been ravaged by the recession, growth from the chlorine side would be stronger in the future than in caustic soda, she pointed out.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">On a global basis, large consumers of chlorine include vinyls, phosgene chemistry (including MDI and TDI) and chlorinated C3s (propylene oxide and epichlorohydrin). Big caustic soda consumers like the alumina industry and pulp & paper industries were also impacted by the recession.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Mr. Charles Fryer, Chairman, Tecnon Orbichem, UK, pointed out that the chlor-alkali markets worldwide were rather stable in 2010, after the traumas of 2008-2009. Strong PVC markets in Asia, supported by buoyant construction activity in China, compensated for weak PVC markets in the West. In 2011, a downturn in building construction in China led to weakening prices for PVC, VCM and especially EDC worldwide. The resulting cutbacks in chlorine consumption and therefore caustic soda co-production led to escalating caustic soda prices in 2011, he said.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">"After the recession, caustic soda came out strongly first and then chlorine, which was very surprising," noted Ms. Wright. "This was mainly because of tight supply situation. We don't believe that in the longer term, caustic soda will outgrow chlorine demand," she emphasised. "With global chlor-alkali rates being restricted because of the low chlorine demand this has meant that caustic soda stocks have continued to be tight and so in the early part of 2012, the chlor-alkali industry was seeing a high dependence on the caustic soda side of production, as this has been the main source of profitability, but as demand for caustic soda is now easing, market balances look set to change," she added.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:#C00000" lang="EN-GB">Global chlorine consumption by end-use - 2011</span></b></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;border:none;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook:1184;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:.5pt solid black" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Sector</span></b></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Share [%]</span></b></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:1"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Vinyls</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">39</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:2"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Phosgene (MDI, TDI, PC)</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">9</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:3"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Chloromethanes</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">4</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:4"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Chlorinated C3 (PO, ECH)</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">9</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:5"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Water treatment</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">6</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:6"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Synthesis HCl</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">11</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:7"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Hypochlorite</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">4</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:8"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Other inorganics</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">13</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:9;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes"> <td style="width:126.95pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="169"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Other organics</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">4</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;color:#C00000" lang="EN-GB">Source: Tecnon OrbiChem</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:#C00000" lang="EN-GB">Global caustic soda demand by usage - 2011</span></b></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;border:none;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook:1184;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:.5pt solid black" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Sector</span></b></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Share [%]</span></b></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:1"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Alumina</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">13</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:2"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Pulp & paper</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">16</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:3"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Soaps & detergents </span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">8</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:4"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Textiles</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">10</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:5"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Organics (Pharmaceuticals, polycarbonate, silver chemicals, etc.)</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">18</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:6"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Inorganics (Sodium silicates, STPP)</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">11</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:7"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Water treatment</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">3</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:8"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Hypo</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">4</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:9"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Food</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">1</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:10;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes"> <td style="width:125.9pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="168"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Others</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">16</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-size:8.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;color:#C00000" lang="EN-GB">Source: Tecnon OrbiChem</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Ms. Wright predicted steady to strong growth in the coming years in many chlorine derivatives – especially in the vinyls sector, Chinese PVC markets, MDI, TDI and chloromethanes. "Chlorine growth is going to outstrip demand for caustic soda in the foreseeable future. Chlorine production and capacity will be increased to meet chlorine demand – with much in China & US," she said. She forecast the global chlorine industry to grow at an average 3.6% in the coming years, while caustic soda would clock a lower 3.2% per annum. "There is a potential for a growing surplus of caustic soda if present production trends (which are dictated by chlorine demand) and consumption trends continue as they are," remarked Ms. Wright. <br></span></p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:#C00000" lang="EN-GB">Global caustic soda demand: trends and forecast</span></b> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">In this scenario of surplus caustic soda, the industry would have to look at various ways and means it. Ms. Wright emphasised the need for the industry to use chlorine twice to ensure caustic soda is not produced in surplus. This could be done either by using by-product HCl in the system somewhere, such as using it in an oxy-chlorination unit for vinyls production or by considering the use of HCl-to-chlorine technologies. Many of the growth derivatives such as MDI generate HCl and so any future growth in these areas should also think about how to manage site balances to ensure the most value is being realised, she said.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">"Prospects for the next few years are uncertain, with question marks over the economies of all world regions. A hoped-for scenario is a resumption of economic growth in 2013 and booming industrial activity in 2014. This would create an upsurge in chlorine markets in 2013 followed by caustic soda in 2014, but only after a weak caustic soda market in 2013," concluded Mr. Fryer.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">ENERGY ADVANTAGE </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">US chlor-alkali industry looks to make the most of shale gas revolution</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">The shale gas revolution in the US has helped the chlor-alkali industry to regain competitiveness. Up until the development of shale gas there was a belief that there would be no major growth in the US in terms of chlor-alkali and vinyls capacity. However, the promise of cheap energy has led many companies to think about the potential for building ethylene, vinyl and chlor-alkali capacity and much of the production will be aimed at the export markets given the poor domestic demand.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">According to Mr. Brian Habacivch, Senior Vice President of Fellon-McCord & Associates, a US-based energy management and consulting company, the seeds of the shale gas revolution were sown in the period from 2001-2006 when US natural gas production was declining. During this period drilling activity was being ramped up and after 2006 natural gas production rose rapidly from 48-bcfpd (billion cubic feet per day) to 64-bcfpd now. "In 2001-03, the talk in the US was for importing natural gas in view of scarcity, now it is about exporting. By around 2015, export of natural gas from the US is set to start," he remarked.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Mr. Habacivch pointed out that even though many countries have recoverable shale gas reserves, different levels of entry barriers in most countries have stymied quick development. "The open access system in US gives impetus to bring gas to market quickly. This is the key reason for the shale gas revolution," he said. He added that the hydraulic fracturing technology used in shale gas is now being duplicated in crude oil exploration in the US and an "oil shale revolution" is on the way. This would further enhance competitiveness of the US chemical industry in the near future.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Mr. Habacivch's improved outlook for the US industry was seconded by <span class="agendaspeakername"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Mr. Marvin Osborne</span></span>, <span class="agendaspeakerjobtitle"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Director of Marketing - Caustic Soda</span></span>, for US-based chlor-alkali major, <span class="agendaspeakercompany"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic">Olin. He predicted n</span></span>ew chlorine capacity to come online as new investment is made to take advantage of the lower natural gas costs in the US.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Cheap gas has meant low production cost for ethylene in US, so EDC exports from US have once again become quite competitive. New capacities coming up in the US are expected to have an impact on chlorine export patterns. US EDC trade with China is expected to fluctuate and depend on the crude oil price and the economics of the acetylene versus ethylene route to PVC conundrum. With rising electricity (coal) costs in China, there is likely to be an impact on dominance of acetylene-based PVC in the domestic market. In such a scenario, industry experts see improved competitiveness for PVC made in China from EDC imported from US or Middle East.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">North America: Gearing up for exports</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Speaking about the North American chlor-alkali industry, Mr. <span class="agendaspeakername"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Osborne pointed out that about </span></span>62% of production was based on diaphragm grade technology and 35% on membrane grade technology, which would grow to 40% by 2014 as capacity increases. </span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">In the period from 2000 to 2011, even as chlorine capacity was being added in North America, the overall capacity decreased from 16.3-mtpa of chlorine to 15.1-mtpa. This was mostly due to industry consolidation and move towards membrane-based processes from older technologies. So the current capacity expansion in the US is in line with demand, Mr. <span class="agendaspeakername"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">Osborne said</span></span>. "Operating rates in the US now is lower than in 1995-2000 period. So there is no chance of an oversupply situation, he added.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">According to Mr. <span class="agendaspeakername"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style: italic">Osborne, in the exports market, </span></span>North America currently has approximately $180-$200 cost advantage over Western Europe and Asia. For the US chlorine sector, in the near term, economic slowdown in Europe and Asia could slow down chlorine derivative exports. However in the longer term, he expected the economy to improve and push up chlorine demand. US will be in a strong position to participate in the global economic recovery and new chlorine capacity will come on line, he said.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">He also expected US caustic exports to remain high in 2012, driven mostly by relatively strong South American demand. ECU cost advantage in the US Gulf will allow exports to Australia to be competitive with current Asian exports, he added.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">DOMESTIC SCENE</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Indian caustic soda market to grow at over 8% in next five years</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Unlike the scenario prevalent globally, the Indian chlor-alkali market is driven by caustic soda. This is mainly due to the fact that the major end-user industry of chlorine – PVC – is predominantly based on imported chlorine in the form of EDC. This is compounded further by factors like lack of new investments in the vinyls chain and ability to secure ethylene at the right price.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">The Indian chlor-alkali industry made up of around 37 units accounts for only 4% of global capacity. The country's caustic soda capacity is pegged at 3.25-mtpa, with chlorine capacity at 2.8-mtpa. Just around 25% of the capacity is integrated and the industry is plagued by significantly higher cost of power compared to many other regions of the world.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">According to Mr. Rajesh Deshpande, General Manager – PVC Marketing, Finolex Industries Ltd., the Indian caustic soda sector grew at around 7% per annum in the last five years and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8% over the next five years. Robust economy and rising population are expected to propel higher consumption. Mr. Deshpande noted that government intervention on import duty on coal imports would help the industry produce power at competitive prices – addressing a key factor impacting competitiveness. "T</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"TimesNewRomanPSMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:TimesNewRomanPSMT;mso-fareast-language:EN-GB" lang="EN-GB">here is an excellent opportunity in the country to produce chlorine derivatives," he added.</span><span lang="EN-GB"></span></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">PVC industry</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Speaking about the PVC industry in India, Mr. Deshpande said five manufacturers supplied around 1,250-kt of the material. Over 700-kt of resin is imported to meet the total apparent domestic demand of 1,972-kt. He predicted PVC demand to grow at 15% in 2012. With no expansion plans by local manufacturers – expect for Reliance – the supply deficit is set to go up to around 950-kt in 2012 and 1,120-kt in 2013, leading to significantly higher PVC imports.</span></p> <span style="mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-no-proof:yes"></span><span lang="EN-GB"></span> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:#C00000" lang="EN-GB">Indian caustic soda industry: End-uses</span></b></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;border:none;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook:1184;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:.5pt solid black" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Sector</span></b></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Share [%]</span></b></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:1"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Pulp & paper</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">15</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:2"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Alumina</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">14</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:3"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Soaps & detergents </span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">7</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:4"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Organics</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">11</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:5"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Inorganics</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">8</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:6"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Textiles</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">21</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:7;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes"> <td style="width:96.1pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="128"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Others</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">24</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span></b></p> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:#C00000" lang="EN-GB">Indian chlorine industry: End-uses</span></b></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;border:none;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook:1184;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:.5pt solid black" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Sector</span></b></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:center" align="center"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span lang="EN-GB">Share [%]</span></b></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:1"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Vinyls</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">15</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:2"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Organics</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">27</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:3"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Inorganics</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">25</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:4"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Pulp & paper</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">6</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:5"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Chlorinated paraffin wax</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">13</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:6"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Water treatment</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">4</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:7"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Pesticides</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">3</span></p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:8;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes"> <td style="width:97.55pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="130"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-GB">Others</span></p> </td> <td style="width:62.75pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="84"> <p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align:right" align="right"><span lang="EN-GB">7</span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-509250930014568282012-07-05T04:17:00.000-07:002012-07-05T03:47:49.047-07:00‘Honeywell Solstice LBA could very well be the leading blowing agent in India’<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:RelyOnVML/> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> 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Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; text-decoration: underline;">POLYURETHANE INDUSTRY</span><b style=""><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">:<br></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Honeywell India recently launched its<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"> </b>new product offerings, the Honeywell <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </b>range of low global warming products in India, with an initial emphasis on polyurethane (PU) foam blowing agents through targeted workshops organized in association with the Indian Polyurethane Association.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">In this exclusive interview with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Chemical Weekly</i>, Mr. Abhijeet Kudva, Strategic Marketing Manager for Fluorine Products, Honeywell India, discusses the need for the products in the PU, refrigeration and air conditioning industries and the advantages they offer.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Excerpts from the interview: <br></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Can you elaborate more about the new products that you are launching in the Indian market?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">We launched <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Solstice</i> in India in November, 2011 and did our first workshop in Mumbai on November 4 with the India Polyurethane Association (IPUA). The second workshop was mainly focused on manufacturers and industry members in Northern India. This series will be replicated across the country for those who are unable to travel. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Honeywell has been a global leader in fluorocarbon technology and over the years we have been the inventor of some of the most important HCFCs and HFCs. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">HFCs have moderate Global Warming Potential (GWP). So Honeywell recently launched an alternative solution, which not only has no impact on the ozone layer, but also has very low GWP, making it an environmentally friendlier product. We also needed to ensure we retain the best properties of the original product; i.e. to retain the thermal properties, such as low thermal conductivity, to ensure that the transition from an HFC to the new product is with the same or better energy efficiency.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";background:yellow;mso-highlight:yellow">Honeywell has now launched a series of hydrofluoroolefins</span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif""> (HFOs) and these are fluorocarbons with a double bond. <span style="background:yellow;mso-highlight:yellow">These products have a very short atmospheric lifecycle</span> – around a month – <span style="background:yellow;mso-highlight:yellow">resulting in a very low GWP and no impact on the ozone layer</span>. We have launched these products for the appliance, expanded polystyrene (XPS), refrigeration, spray foam and for aerosol and solvent industries. We have multiple products that fit into each of these industries in the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> portfolio.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif""> </span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left:0in;line-height:14.0pt">The <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> portfolio includes a family of stationary and mobile refrigerants, blowing agents, propellants and solvents that Honeywell continues to develop and commercialize for its customers. In addition to 1233zd, it includes HFO-1234yf, a new mobile air-conditioning refrigerant, and HFO-1234ze, a new blowing agent and propellant. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; color:#222222">HFO-1234yf is being widely adopted by the automotive industry for use as a refrigerant in car air-conditioning systems. It has a GWP of 4, which is 99.7% less than HFC-134a (with a GWP of 1,430), the prior refrigerant used in this application.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; color:#222222">Honeywell's <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> gas<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"> </b>blowing agent is being used in XPS board applications. It has a GWP of less than 6, and replaces HCFC 142b, HFC-134a and HFC-152a, as well as non-fluorocarbon products in these applications.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; vertical-align:top"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Honeywell's <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> propellant is non-flammable, non-ozone depleting and has a GWP of 6. It can replace HFC-134a, which has a GWP of 1,430, and HFC-152a with a GWP of 142. It can be used in various aerosol applications, including personal and household care products, pressure dusters, warning systems, novelty aerosol products and others. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">How are your products better as compared to other competing products available in the market?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">In terms of atmospheric impact, let me just speak about the low GWP. Our product, Honeywell <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Solstice</i> Liquid Blowing Agent (LBA), has been recently launched globally, as well as in India, and we are doing trials today with some of the leading players. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">When we look at the scenario in India today, companies typically would either use a HCFC (mainly HCFC 141b), a hydrocarbon product (pentane) or HFC245fa. So, let's compare them to one another. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">HCFC 141b has ozone depleting potential (ODP) and on the basis of the Montreal Protocol commitment, India, which is one of the Article V countries, would be phasing out this product from next year onwards. Eventually, it will start disappearing from the market.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">HFC 245fa, which is also a Honeywell product, has no ODP, has equal energy efficiency to HCFC-141b, but has a moderate GWP (1,030).</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Hydrocarbons don't have an impact on the ozone layer and have a low GWP. However, they are flammable; so you need to invest significantly in capital to make your plant fire retardant. A refrigerator company, for example, would need to increase capex significantly to ensure fire retardant capabilities in its plants. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">An equally important issue is that hydrocarbons have significant challenges with energy efficiency compared to 141b, 245fa, or LBA. Hydrocarbon based refrigerators are almost 8-10% lower in energy efficiency compared to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> LBA based refrigerators. If you switch from hydrocarbons today to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Solstice</i> LBA, you could actually improve the energy efficiency of your refrigerator by around 8-10%. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">In summary, Honeywell <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Solstice</i> LBA has beneficial properties from an environmental perspective and is also energy efficient. It has a third big benefit in that it is a near 'drop-in' solution, which means one could change over from a HCFC, HFC or even a hydrocarbon to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> with minimal capital expenditure.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">What will be the impact of the impending HCFC phase out on the Indian appliance industry?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left:0in;line-height:14.0pt">We have seen record production and sales of refrigerators and air conditioners in the last few years. A lot of the industry players are well geared to meet the challenge and they understand HCFCs have disadvantages. At the same time, they need to meet the new energy standards, which is challenging.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri">The transition from HCFCs to environment-friendly alternatives is of significance, especially as the country aims to achieve a 35-40% improvement in energy efficiency for refrigerators by 2014 (as stipulated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency). <span style="background:yellow;mso-highlight:yellow">The industry today needs a non-ODP blowing agent, which would at the same time also provide high energy efficiency.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">What was the industry response towards your first workshop?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">We did our first workshop in Mumbai because it is where a large part of the Indian rigid polyurethane industry is. In my opinion, it was a very successful workshop: we had over 70 participants from different parts of the polyurethane industry, and it served our purpose to educate the industry about the alternatives. Based on this workshop, we are now developing products and conducting trials with appliance companies and System Houses for validating the energy efficiency improvement with our products in an Indian context. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">The IPUA leadership asked us to do a second workshop in Delhi and then in Chennai because they want us to disseminate this information as fast as possible to the industry. We are replicating a similar workshop model globally, to interact with the industry and to educate them.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Are you just concentrating on this one product, or looking to launch products for other segment also?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Yes, absolutely. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">The Indian HCFC phase-out management plan (HPMP) has prioritized the foam sector for HCFC phase out. Hence, we started with this product. Simultaneously, based on industry needs, we are working on other <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> products, e.g. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice yf</i> refrigerant for mobile air-conditioning and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> propellant, liquid and gas blowing agents. All these products are available for trial, some are commercial and, as the need arises in India, we will look at introducing them and working with partners in India on trials and commercialisation. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Where are these new products manufactured?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">All these products are manufactured initially out of pilot plants and then commercial, large-scale plants. For example, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> LBA is now manufactured out of a pilot plant. We are working on building a global scale plant as we speak to serve demand across the world. We will over the next few years have all our products available on commercial scale globally.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">What sort of revenues do you contemplate from India?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Given the increasing energy standards and the requirements of being environmentally friendly, Honeywell <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Solstice</i> LBA could very well be the leading blowing agent for companies who look to grow globally as well as in India. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">Honeywell has invested significantly in India in terms of technical centers as well as technical knowledge building. Today nearly 10% of our global workforce and around 12,000 employees are in India. We have launched the Honeywell India Technology Center in February 2012, which is focused on developing new products for the region. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:14.0pt"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"">It is because of our firm belief in the potential of this market and the way it has been growing, that we are significantly investing to develop our technical capabilities.</span></p>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-20256347423274038322012-07-05T02:16:00.000-07:002012-07-05T01:47:02.407-07:00Peroxide and phosphoric acid move up; citric acid, acrylates ease<DIV> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">The week under review saw peroxide and phosphoric acid gaining on previously reported levels, while citric acid and acrylates eased.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Caustic soda flakes</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> ruled Rs. 0.70 lower at Rs. 38.20 plus VAT, while the rate for <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Caustic soda lye</B> was quoted higher by Rs. 0.70 at Rs. 33.70 plus VAT. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Caustic potash</B> (GACL) was ruling at Rs. 69 (basic) for the bulk. Imported caustic potash was quoted at Rs. 67 (basic). <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Potassium carbonate</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> in powder form (GACL) was steady at Rs. 73 (basic), while granules ruled at Rs. 69 (basic). <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Liquid chlorine</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> ruled at Rs. 7.50 (basic) in bulk, while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">sodium hypochlorite</B> was at Rs. 31 (basic). Imported <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Hydro </B>ruled steady at Rs. 105 (basic).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Soda ash</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> was available at Rs. 23 (basic) in bulk and at Rs. 26 plus VAT in bags. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">DCDA<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Dicyandiamide</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> (DCDA) ruled at Rs. 170 (basic) for the packed material. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Ammonium nitrate</B> remained unchanged at Rs. 34 (basic), while ammonium carbonate (lumps) was quoted at Rs. 44 plus VAT for the packed material. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Thio urea</B> was steady at Rs. 120 (basic) for the packed material.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Methylene chloride</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Among the chloromethanes, <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">methylene chloride</B> was quoted at Rs. 33 (basic) for the bulk and Rs. 37.50 (basic) for the packed material. C<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">hloroform</B> ruled at Rs. 29 (basic) in bulk, while the rate for the packed material was quoted at Rs. 31.50 (basic).<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Hydrogen peroxide (</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">domestic material) ruled Rs. 2 higher at Rs. 26 (basic) for the bulk and the rate for the packed material was quoted at Rs. 32 (basic). Imported material was quoted at Rs. 27 (basic). P<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">hosphoric acid</B> was quoted Rs. 2 higher at Rs. 62 (basic) for the bulk material. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">STPP</B> of Russian origin was steady at Rs. 68 (basic) for the packed material.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Cyclohexane <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Cyclohexane</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> (GSFC) was steady at Rs. 81 (basic) in bulk, while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">cyclohexanone</B> (GSFC) was quoted steady at Rs. 120 (basic) in bulk. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Melamine</B> (GSFC) remained at Rs. 84 (basic). Imported <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Melamine</B> of DSM was also quoted at Rs. 84 (basic).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Formic acid</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> (GNFC) was steady at Rs. 39.60 (basic) for bulk material, while the packed material was quoted at Rs. 46 (basic). <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">DMF</B> was unmoved at Rs. 59.25 (basic) for bulk and Rs. 61.25 (basic) for the packed material. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Hexamine</B> packed material from China was quoted at Rs. 79 (basic).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Borax & boric acid<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Borax</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> stayed unchanged at Rs. 37 plus VAT, while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">boric acid</B> ruled steady at Rs. 67 plus VAT. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Sodium nitrate</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> ruled Rs. 0.60 higher at Rs. 34.80 plus VAT, while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">sodium nitrite</B> was selling Rs. 0.60 higher at Rs. 37.60 plus VAT for the bulk. The rate for the packed material for sodium nitrite ruled at Rs. 42 plus VAT.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Citric acid</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> ruled lower by Rs. 2 at Rs. 57 plus VAT.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Acrylates </SPAN><o:p></o:p></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><STRONG><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Ethyl acrylate</SPAN></STRONG><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> was down by Rs. 3 at Rs. 132 plus VAT, while <STRONG>acrylic acid</STRONG> was ruling Rs. 3 higher at Rs. 136 plus VAT. <STRONG>Butyl acrylate</STRONG> was quoted Rs. 2 higher at Rs. 142 plus VAT, while <STRONG>2-EHA</STRONG> was ruling Rs. 5 lower at Rs. 144 plus VAT. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Acrylamide</B> (powder) was quoted at Rs. 165 (basic), while liquid acrylamide (40% solution) was at Rs. 70 (basic).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Methacrylamide</B> ruled at Rs. 375 (basic). <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Ethanolamines <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Monoethanolamine</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> ruled Rs. 2 lower at Rs. 108 plus VAT, while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">diethanolamine</B> was at Rs. 103 plus VAT and <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">triethanolamine</B> ruled at Rs. 107 plus VAT. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Nitrobenzene <o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Aniline</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> ruled firm at Rs. 98 (basic) in bulk, while the rate for the packed material was quoted at Rs.105 (basic). <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Nitrobenzene</B> was steady at Rs. 62 (basic) and Rs. 69 (basic) for bulk and packed materials, respectively. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Among the nitrotoluenes, <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">MNT</B> was unchanged at Rs. 88 (basic) and Rs. 94, while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">PNT</B> was at Rs. 95 (basic) and Rs. 101 (basic) for the bulk and packed materials, respectively. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">ONT </B>was at Rs. 58 (basic) and Rs. 64 (basic) (for bulk and packed materials).<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Among the nitrochlorobenzenes, <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">ONCB </B>ruled at Rs. 60 (basic) and Rs. 64 (basic) for bulk and packed materials, respectively. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">o-Toluidine (OT base) </B>was at Rs. 250 (basic), while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">OT liquid</B> ruled at Rs. 97 (basic).<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">o-Chlorobenzoic acid (OCBA) </SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">was at Rs. 125 (basic) and <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)</B> was quoted at Rs. 525 (basic).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Cresols<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Mixed cresol</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> was quoted at Rs. 130 (basic), while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">m-cresol</B> was selling at Rs. 430 (basic). Imported <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">p-creso</B>l was up at around Rs. 300 plus VAT. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">O-Cresol</B> was ruling at around Rs.150 plus VAT. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Tertiary butanol </SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">was<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </B>quoted at<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </B>Rs. 100 (basic), while<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> iodine</B> was at Rs. 3,200 (basic) and <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">8-hydroxyquinoline </B>ruled at Rs. 850 (basic).<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> Hydroquinone</B> ruled at Rs. 430 (basic). <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Resorcinol</B> was selling in the range of Rs. 290-300 (basic).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Phosphate chemicals<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Di-ammonium phosphate (Technical) ruled at Rs. 69 (basic) and the pure material ruled at Rs. 90 (basic). Mono Ammonium Phosphate (Pure) was quoted at Rs. 95 (basic). Mono Potassium Phosphate (Pure) was steady at Rs. 105 (basic). Di Potassium Phophate (pure) was quoted unchanged at Rs. 115 (basic). Sodium Hexameta Phosphate (SHMP) was at Rs. 80 (basic).<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Fatty alcohols<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Lauryl alcohol (C12/C14)</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> ruled at Rs. 165 plus VAT, while pure lauryl alcohol was at Rs. 173 plus VAT. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Cetostearyl alcohol</B> was at Rs. 120 plus VAT, while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">cetyl alcohol </B>was quoted at Rs. 118 plus VAT. <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Stearyl alcohol </B>was at Rs. 133 plus VAT. Distilled coconut fatty acid was selling at Rs. 115 plus VAT. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Glycerine </SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">IP ruled at Rs. 72 (basic), while CP<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </B>grade was quoted at Rs. 67 (basic). <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Stearic acid</B> (textile grade) was at Rs. 83 plus VAT, while rubber grade stearic acid was quoted at Rs. 83 plus VAT and cosmetic grade material was ruling unchanged at Rs. 100 plus VAT.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">AOS-L46 grade of <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">Alpha Olefin Sulfonate</B> (AOS) ruled at Rs. 41 plus VAT, while XL-46 grade ruled at Rs. 47 plus VAT.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Titanium dioxide steady<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Anatase </SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">grade<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </B>of titanium dioxide (TTPL) was steady at Rs. 160 (basic), while <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">rutile</B> grade of KMML was unchanged at Rs. 212 (basic) for paint, ink and plastic grade materials. The packed material of TTPL was quoted at Rs. 250 (basic) and that of KMML was quoted at Rs. 275 (basic). <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Among the imported materials, the DuPont material was quoted at $3,950 per ton; Huntsman material was at $3,800 and Tronox (KerMecgee) material was at $3,850 per ton. In local currency, their prices ruled in the range of Rs. 230 to 250 per kg. Chinese anatase ruled at around Rs.150 (basic) and rutile was at around Rs. 210 (basic).<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P></DIV>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-65204420549903537352012-07-05T02:09:00.000-07:002012-07-05T01:39:52.493-07:00Leather technology & the environment<DIV> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>A. SAHASRANAMAN<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Vice-Chairman, Chennai Environmental Company Of Tanneries (CEMCOT)<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Chennai<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Introduction<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>India has emerged as a major tanning centre of the world, processing about 3,000-tonnes of raw materials per day. The main centres of tanning include Jullunder in the North; Kanpur, Unnao and Kolkata in the East; and Chennai, Ranipet, Ambur, Vaniyambadi, Pernambut, Erode, Dindigul and Trichy in the South. About 45% of country's total tanning capacity is in the South; 18% in Kolkata; 25% in Kanpur; about 7% in Jullunder and the rest scattered in rural areas. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Being a water-intensive process, tanning generates considerable volume of wastewater. On the average, about 35-m<SUP>3</SUP> of wastewater is generated while processing one tonne of raw material. It is roughly assessed that about 100,000-m<SUP>3</SUP> of wastewater is generated per day by the tanneries in the country.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WUAAsRq36ic/T_VS2BQFSPI/AAAAAAAAAxE/-DG4r4HI1fk/s1600/DF6915D3%254024475804.D452F54F-792497.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WUAAsRq36ic/T_VS2BQFSPI/AAAAAAAAAxE/-DG4r4HI1fk/s320/DF6915D3%254024475804.D452F54F-792497.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5761602386292721906" /></a>In the process of leather making, a number of chemicals are also used in the tanning and post-tanning processes. It has been observed that the amount of chemicals absorbed by the leather is not more than 20%; the rest 80% being washed away with the process water. The effluent of tanneries thus carries a huge volume of a cocktail of chemicals. Besides, the solid waste generated while processing hides and skins works out to about 65% of the weight of the raw material. This includes hair, fleshings and trimmings of raw-, semi-processed or finished leather, shavings and leather dust, besides the sludge generated by wastewater treatment plants.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The solid and liquid waste generated by the tanning process thus poses a major challenge of waste treatment and management.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Pollutant discharge standards<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The pollutant discharge standards have been specified by respective Pollution Control Boards in different states of the country. Whereas Minimum National Standards (MINAS) have been prescribed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the state boards have been authorized to introduce more stringent norms according to the local situation. The standards generally applicable refer to pH, BOD, COD, TSS, TDS, Cr and these vary according to the recipient – such as surface discharge, for irrigation, marine discharge or sewer discharge. Generally there is no limit for TDS prescribed if marine discharge is authorised. With regard to sewer discharge too, depending on the dilution potential available, TDS limits may be modulated.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Nature of liquid waste and treatment process<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>It is desirable to know a little about the nature of pollutants in the liquid waste. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The liquid waste carries both suspended and dissolved solids. The suspended solids consist of dirt and particles of raw hides shaken off the raw material, some traces of dissolved hair, fleshings, leather pieces, leather dust etc. Generally, these suspended solids are either removed by the screening process, by use of fine screens or settled by chemical process and withdrawn as sludge. These are also removed by biological treatment in the aeration tanks or by anaerobic process. In this manner, pH, BOD, COD, TSS and Cr standards are achievable by physio-chemical and biological treatment in the waste treatment plants. The suspended solids are removed as sludge from the effluent treatment plants. It has been estimated that 3-4 kg of dry solid sludge is generated by treating 1-m<SUP>3</SUP> of wastewater. The process adopted is generally referred to as conventional waste treatment system.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The dissolved solids however pose a major challenge. This consists of ions of sodium chloride, sodium sulphate and carbonates. Traces of dyes are also found. Conventional waste treatment systems do not provide for treatment of dissolved solids. In developed countries the treated effluent high in TDS is diluted in sewage treatment plants before discharge. In some locations, marine discharge is practised. Where such options are absent, such as in Tamil Nadu, for dealing with such pollutants, expensive reverse osmosis (RO) technology only can be employed. The reject of RO system has to be evaporated either by natural process using solar energy or through suitable mechanical system of evaporation. The mechanical process is energy intensive and very expensive.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Solid waste management<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>With regard to solid waste management, there are a variety of end-uses for the same. Typically, the solid wastes generated in tanneries are converted into by-products as shown in Table 1.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Table 1<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>By-products from tannery solid waste<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <TABLE style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; BORDER-COLLAPSE: collapse; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; mso-table-layout-alt: fixed; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext" class=MsoNormalTable border=1 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0> <TBODY> <TR style="HEIGHT: 12.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-firstrow: yes"> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 118.1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.3pt; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=157> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Solid waste<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P></TD> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: #f0f0f0; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 101.85pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.3pt; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=136> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>By-products made<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P></TD></TR> <TR style="HEIGHT: 12.95pt; mso-yfti-irow: 1"> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 118.1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=157> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Hair and wool<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: #f0f0f0; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 101.85pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=136> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Rough blankets, fertilizer<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD></TR> <TR style="HEIGHT: 12.95pt; mso-yfti-irow: 2"> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 118.1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=157> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Fleshings<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: #f0f0f0; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 101.85pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=136> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Poultry feed/biogas/manure<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD></TR> <TR style="HEIGHT: 12.3pt; mso-yfti-irow: 3"> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 118.1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.3pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=157> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Trimmings of raw hides<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: #f0f0f0; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 101.85pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.3pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=136> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Dog chew/glue<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD></TR> <TR style="HEIGHT: 12.95pt; mso-yfti-irow: 4"> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 118.1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=157> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Trimmings of wet blue/El leather/shavings<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: #f0f0f0; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 101.85pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=136> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Leather board<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD></TR> <TR style="HEIGHT: 12.95pt; mso-yfti-irow: 5"> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 118.1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=157> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Trimmings of finished leather<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: #f0f0f0; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 101.85pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=136> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Leather board, small leather articles<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD></TR> <TR style="HEIGHT: 12.95pt; mso-yfti-irow: 6; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes"> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 118.1pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=157> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Sludge<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD> <TD style="BORDER-BOTTOM: windowtext 1pt solid; BORDER-LEFT: #f0f0f0; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; BACKGROUND-COLOR: transparent; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; WIDTH: 101.85pt; PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; HEIGHT: 12.95pt; BORDER-TOP: #f0f0f0; BORDER-RIGHT: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-TOP: 0in; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt" vAlign=top width=136> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Bricks/manure<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>It has been observed that the factories in India converting the solid waste into various products are in the micro- and small-scale sector, employing basic technologies. With more efforts and focus, it is possible to increase value realization from such waste by employing superior technologies and producing better quality and variety byproducts. Italy and Spain have modern factories processing different solid waste of tanneries to high value-added products.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Currently, the sludge generated within tanneries as well as in the ETPs and CETPs is deemed hazardous in India and many other countries because these contain chromium, though in its trivalent form. It is therefore required to dump such sludge in secure landfill. In advanced countries like the USA, such sludge is not treated as hazardous because trivalent chromium is not deemed harmful. Be that as it may, many experiments have been done in India to demonstrate that such chromium in the sludge could be immobilized. In India, bricks, both burnt and unburnt, have been made using such sludge with clay and small quantity of cement. Also manure has been made using sludge and vegetable waste. These products displayed immobilization of chromium. At one point of time, CPCB has allowed use or disposal of sludge containing chromium upto 5000-ppm provided it was trivalent, but this notification was withdrawn sometime later. As of date, such sludge is deemed hazardous in India and hence it has to be disposed in safe and secure landfills. Apart from the cost aspect for creating new secure landfills, land is not easily available in the neighborhood of tannery districts.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Liquid waste management<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>First, let us briefly deal with the end-of-pipe treatment before looking at process technology options.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The discharge standards vary from location to location, with Kolkata opting for marine discharge standards and Kanpur (Jajmau) for sewer standards. But in Tamil Nadu surface discharge standards have been prescribed, which calls for reaching TDS level of 2100-ppm in treated effluent with chloride and sulphate being less than 600-ppm. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The TNPCB has directed that all tanneries in the state should go in for zero liquid discharge (ZLD) system of treatment with the twin objectives of recovery of process water and prevention of contamination of ground water and soil. The calls for employment of RO/mechanical evaporation systems. In terms of capital investment, it works out to more than Rs. 1.5 lakhs additional investment per cubic meter of wastewater treated. With regard to O&M cost, it is about Rs. 120 per cubic meter, about four times the operational cost of conventional treatment systems. It is noteworthy that 65% of the cost of operation of a ZLD system is accounted for by energy and fuel for boiler. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Of the 15 CETPs in the state, 13 have opted for ZLD system. The rest have the option of sewer discharge. Two ZLD systems are operational at Perundurai and Melvisharam; three covering four CETPs are under stabilization at Thuthipet, Maligaithope and Vaniyambadi; five, covering six CETPs at Pallavaram, Ranipet (3) and Pernabut are to be commissioned before end of March 2012. While the one at Dindigul has the option of sewer discharge, yet it is opting to go for ZLD too. Besides, it is reported that about 50 individual tanneries have their own RO systems. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Though it has been established that technologically it would be feasible to establish ZLD systems, its sustainability is a major question. Some advantages of the ZLD system include recovery of almost the entire wastewater for reuse, less consumption of chemicals due to improved process water and prevention of contamination of soil and ground water by high TDS effluent. In due course of time, the land and ground water contaminated earlier will be able to recoup. But, ultimately, the tanneries have to survive in a fiercely competitive global market!<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The issue of sustainability of ZLD system has to be viewed from the points of view of:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>1.Improving process technology thus reducing pollution, especially of TDS;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>2.Stabilising process parameters for O&M of the ZLD system; and <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>3.Seeking support of government in critical areas for this unique environmental initiative. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>While improvements in process technology may help the situation to an extent, unless strong government support is forthcoming, it is quite likely that the industry will face very serious difficulties, which may result in closure or migration of a good number of tanneries from Tamil Nadu. It will be a pity if this laudable initiative is not enabled to succeed.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Improved process technology<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>It is against this background that the issue of improved tanning technology has to be viewed. With mounting cost of waste treatment, the question naturally arises as to whether the generation of such voluminous polluting wastewater could be controlled. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) has been constantly looking for ways of introducing new technologies at different stages, which could reduce both volume and pollution intensity of wastewater. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Water conservation<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>This is a key objective, as tanneries will be charged as per volume of wastewater discharged.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>It involves recycling of various streams of wastewater, such as counter-current soaking, liming, reliming, pickling and chrome liquor. The technology is well demonstrated in actual working environment in tanneries, and besides reducing water consumption, helps improve absorption of chemicals.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Current uptake of these technologies has been few and far between. One reason is that many tanners being job tanners do not want to adopt any new process that could impact on quality of leather as others provide the raw material.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Reduction of TDS<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>This is achieved by:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>1.Enzymatic/other methods of curing of hides and skins, eliminating or reducing salt used for preservation (50% reduction in volume of salt used possible);<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>2.Mechanical or manual desalting of hides and skins: about 15% of salt could be removed in this process;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>3.Enzymatic unhairing: this helps eliminate or reduce use of sulphide in the process and recover undissolved hair;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>4.Pickle-less tanning, which reduces TDS by about 30% overall;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>5.Carbon dioxide deliming; and<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>6.Chrome recovery and reuse.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>These technologies have been adopted only by a few. Minimum duration of preservation is 40-45 days and hide dealers are not confident of any preservative other than salt.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Perhaps charging tanners according to volume and intensity of TDS may help them move towards these technologies.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>REACH standards - Residual Substances Limit in the European Union<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Limits have been prescribed for 44 chemicals, not all relevant for tanneries. More are on the anvil. CLRI constantly keeps tab, and advises industry in advance of alternatives.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>New technologies with multiple objectives<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Three step tanning<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The approach involves, removal of hair, flesh and fibre opening using biocatalysts and sodium hydroxide at pH 8.5 for cow hides. This is followed by a pickle-free chrome tanning, which does not require a basification step. Hence, this tanning technique involves primarily three steps: dehairing, fibre opening and tanning leading to near zero waste tanning.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Integrated wet finishing process<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>A compact wet finishing process has been developed for making both upper and garment leathers. The process provides leathers having comparable or even better physical and bulk properties to that derived from conventional wet finishing process. The water consumption is reduced significantly by 73% for processing 1-tonne of wet blue shaved leathers which is one of the pioneering achievements. This success story led the researcher to design and develop process for integrating tanning and wet finishing of leather processing.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Colouring leathers naturally; gains importance<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>An attempt has been made to colour leathers using natural dyes such as Rhine, Rhine M, Indus, Pacific, Caspian, Henna and modified Logwood. Twenty-four shades were developed using combination of seven natural colorants by mordanting with three metal ions. Sixteen developed colours have potential value in the global leather market in the context of environmentally benign leather processing.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Reverse leather processing through fundamental changes<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>A new greener and cleaner processing could be developed which will revolutionise the leather tanning industry. Reverse leather tanning works backward from the point where conventional tanning ends. The methodology saves time, energy and chemicals, along with reduction in water usage and pollution load.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Eco-efficient leather processing for clean and green leather<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The process involves salt-free curing, lime and sulphide-free beam-house process and post-tanning followed by tanning employing a reverse leather processing technique. The functional performance of the leather is found to be on par with that of conventionally processed leathers. The rationalized leather process reduces the usage and discharge of chemicals and also makes a significant reduction in pollution loads.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Zero emission research initiative for leather – a way forward<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Water recycle and reuse method based on zero wastewater discharge from beam house has been developed and standardized at semi-technical scales. In the new methodology, water consumption is reduced from 17-litres to 1.7-litres for one kg of hide in raw to wet blue processing. This approach can, in principle, lead to water renovation and recycle in individual tanneries through applications of membrane and other advanced technologies.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>While all these new technologies have been developed b the CLRI with a view to help industry cope with the new challenges faced by them in environment management, given the structure of the industry, with SMEs dominating and many working as job tanners, it is a major challenge as to how to make them take to these very useful technologies.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Stabilising process parameters for the O&M of ZLD systems<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>As indicated elsewhere, the ZLD system using UF/RO/mechanical evaporators for treatment of tannery wastewater has been introduced for the first time in the world in Tamil Nadu. Even suppliers of RO systems/evaporators are not quite aware of the ideal process parameters as they are dealing with this type of wastewater for the first time. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Indian Leather Industry Foundation (ILIFO), Chennai, has some experience of monitoring operation of some ZLD systems in ETPs of tanneries, but such ETPs do not have mechanical evaporators and instead resort to accelerated solar evaporation of the RO reject. Though some data is available for operation of ZLD in ETPs, dealing with the CETPs where wastewater is discharged by a number of tanneries producing different types of products, poses a different set of problems.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>RO is basically a filter with very minute apertures and through which wastewater is passed at great pressure to filter out the dissolved solids. Physical parameters such as pressure, back washing for periodical cleaning of the membranes etc. can be controlled. But with regard to the impact of specific pollutants that cause blockage, corrosion, scaling, etc. there are no benchmarks yet. Reasonable precautions have been taken to arrest all pollutants, including organics through DMF and organic scavenger prior to applying wastewater on the RO. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Suffice it to say that the O&M operators, contractors and suppliers are jointly working towards stabilizing the process parameters. The longer the life of the UF/RO membranes and the evaporator, the lower will be the O&M cost of the system over a period of time.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Areas of Government support<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Support of the government is critical for survival of the industry at this juncture. The industry has no doubt demonstrated its sincerity towards complying with the TNPCB direction regarding ZLD system, despite heavy cost. But, now the government must extend a helping hand to enable the industry remain competitive.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Concessional power tariff <o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>As pointed out earlier, power and fuel for boiler are main contributors to O&M cost of ZLD system – working out to about 65% of the cost of operation. The power tariff for ZLD systems is on usual industrial/commercial rates. It is learnt that for sewage treatment plants operated by municipalities, the power tariff is different. If the sewage treatment systems in the tannery districts were operational, there may have been no need for the ZLD system at all. It is therefore desirable that the concessional tariff extended to sewage treatment plants may be also extended to the ZLD systems operated by the industry. This will provide some relief.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Recovery & usage of salts<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The as yet unresolved issue of what to do with the solid salt recovered from the ZLD system needs tackling. Some efforts are underway to segregate these different salts and either use or sell these. After a technology is found, we have to find an investor to invest in a plant to recover different salts.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>TNPCB had initiated discussion with the industry and R&D institutions in this regard. It is appropriate that the TNPCB may engage its experts to find other alternative means of use or disposal of the same. The CETPs will have to keep the recovered salt stored in safe condition until a viable alternative emerges.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Crisis fund for CETPs <o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The members of all CETPs are generally from the SME sector, many of who lead a hand-to-mouth existence. If any upheaval takes place in the marketplace, they would be the first to suffer.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>In order to ensure that such temporary setbacks do not result in the ZLD systems not being able to collect the O&M cost from members, a way out has to be found. A designated fund may be created to be kept at the disposal of a state agency, to extend interest-free loan to such CETPs as may need it, for meeting such crisis situations. Generally CETPs should be able to overcome such difficulties in a season or two.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Temporary closure of CETPs<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>From a technical point of view, it has to be realized that the ZLD system, like any other system, is liable to face sudden technical problems necessitating temporary closure for repair etc. But it would de virtually difficult to halt production in tanneries, as they would have commitments to meet. It is therefore for consideration that over a one-year period CETPs be allowed discharge effluent, after secondary and tertiary treatment, or after RO, for a maximum of 20 days, at any rate, not more than 3 days consecutively on any one occasion.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Such a provision is necessary to avoid tanneries resorting to subterfuges when faced with a crisis.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Assistance for technology upgradation<o:p></o:p></SPAN></I></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>The ZLD systems may need upgradation at an interval at an interval of five years or so. When major capital expenditures are required to be made, such investments may be treated as upgradation and the CETPs made eligible to drawn assistance from the Government towards capital expenditure, to extent of 50%.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Wherever alternative to ZLD may exist or emerge, such as dilution by sewage or marine disposal, tanneries should be encouraged to avail such alternatives.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Way forward<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>ZLD systems now demanded in Tamil Nadu may, in future, become the norm in other parts of the country. In fact, some other countries, including Italy, are closely watching the developments in India.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>If this is an irreversible situation, it makes sense for tanners to look for ways and means of:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>1.Conserving use of water in the process;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>2.Achieve better absorption of chemicals in leather; and <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoListParagraphCxSpLast><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>3.Reduce the generation of TDS to the maximum extent feasible. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Evaporation of rejects is a very expensive component of treatment cost and therefore, it makes eminent sense to reduce TDS content in effluent to the maximum extent by suitable in-process control measures.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>Modern and new process technologies can only provide answers. Bio-processing is a promising alternative.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>It is necessary for tanners to have an open mind to embrace these new opportunities. It is equally necessary for the government to keep an open and sympathetic mind and extend a helping hand to the industry to overcome teething troubles in the initial years.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB" lang=EN-GB>There may be initial hiccups, but if the objective is clear and the technology provider is confident, there is no reason why the industry cannot move ahead in this direction.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-73621043367684768002012-07-05T01:20:00.000-07:002012-07-05T00:50:32.343-07:00IFFCO and IGFL ready to offtake full quota of KG-D6 gas<DIV> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"><STRONG><EM><U>GAS ALLOCATION:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></U></EM></STRONG></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Indian Farmers Fertiliser Co-operative (IFFCO) and Indo-Gulf Fertlizer Ltd. (IGFL) plants are ready for offtake of the balance quantity of the KG-D6 gas, which has been allocated to them by the Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM).<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">A total of 0.52-mmscmd and 0.478-mmscmd of D-6 gas were allocated to IFFCO's Phulpur-I/II units and IGFL's Jagdishpur plant. Out of the total allocations, gas sale & purchase agreements (GSPAs) were signed for only 0.25-mmscmd with each company.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">As plants of the two companies are now ready, they have expressed their desire to offtake the balance. The Department of Fertilizers (DOF) has also informed the ministry about readiness and GAIL has confirmed connectivity of these two plants to the pipeline grid.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">In light of this, the petroleum ministry has asked Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) and Niko – the two contractors of the KG-D6 field – to immediately sign fresh GSPAs with the two fertilizer entities. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Highest priority to fertilizer plants<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The EGoM has accorded highest priority to gas-based fertilizer plants and accordingly the petroleum ministry, in consultation with the DOF, has allocated 15.668-mmscmd of gas produced from the KG-D6 block to various fertilizer plants. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">OUTLOOK FOR NUTRIENTS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Slump in Indian demand for MOP temporary: PotashCorp<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Canada's Potash Corporation (PotashCorp) believes the slump in demand for potash in India due to certain factors is a passing phase. In its quarterly market analysis report dated 25 June 2012, the company says: "One of the major impediments to improvement of India's lagging crop yields is its under-application of potash relative to nitrogen."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">It claims "farmers were making strides to improve this ratio until 2011, when delayed contract settlements limited potash availability. More recently, a weakened Rupee and fertilizer subsidy changes that subsidize nitrogen heavily, compared to potash and phosphate, are leading to higher retail prices for potash and deferring demand in the short term."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">"We view this situation as a short-term issue, as the medium- to long-term consequences on India's food production of under-applying potash and phosphate are too significant. Given projected potash consumption levels for 2012, the nitrogen-to-potash ratio is expected to fall back to 6:1. This is not sustainable in the face of the need to improve lagging crop productivity and meet the future food needs of India's rising population."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">PotashCorp admits potash shipments have fallen below the long-term trend, following the global economic downturn and recent deduction in India's potash demand. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Flat demand for phosphates in 2012<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">As for phosphates, the company notes that changes in nutrients-based subsidy scheme in India caused a decline in 2011 DAP and MAP consumption. "We expect India's consumption to be flat in 2012 compared to 2011 levels," it adds.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">OVERSEAS FORAY<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Iffco plans ammonia-urea plant in Canada<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The Indian Farmers Fertiliser Co-operative Ltd. (Iffco) is setting up a gas-based ammonia-urea complex in Canada. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">According to Mr. A.K. Singh, Senior Executive Director (Technical), the proposed project would be through a joint venture, Iffco Canada Fertiliser Co, between its wholly-owned Dubai-based subsidiary, Kisan International Trading FZE, and a Canadian partner. The process to select the partner and location of the complex has started, Mr Singh said. Americas Petrogas, the Canadian company in which Iffco has a 10% stake, or its subsidiary, with which Iffco has a joint-venture agreement, are not collaborating for this project.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The project will comprise two ammonia units (2,200-tpd each), a couple of urea plants (4,000-tpd in two streams), and auxiliary facilities. The complex, likely to be located in eastern Canada, will also include a dedicated jetty for export, with an ammonia throughput of 1,000 tonnes per hour and urea at 1,200-1,500 tonnes per hour. Iffco has received several bids for the three expressions of interest from engineering, procurement and construction contractors, both domestic and foreign. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The engineering, procurement, erection and commissioning of the two streams of the urea plants shall be phased such that the second unit would be in production one year after the first unit goes on stream. However, the auxiliary facilities will become ready with the first urea stream.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">DIVERSIFICATION<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Sterlite likely to enter phosphatic fertilizers segment<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Sterlite Industries (India) Ltd. (SIIL) has hinted that it is likely to enter phosphatic fertilizers and chemicals business as forward integration to its by-products acid business.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">In its notice to shareholders convening its annual-cum-extra-general meeting, it says "it is proposed to explore manufacturing of any other useful products derived from sulphuric acid or phosphoric acid."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The company says that it also intends to explore the possibility of adding value to phosgypsum, a waste production of phosphoric acid plant.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">SIIL currently manufactures sulphuric acid and downstream phosphoric acid at its copper smelter complex at Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu. It sells a part of sulphuric acid output to fertilizer and chemical companies and uses the balance for production of phosphoric acid. The latter acid is sold to fertilizer plants. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The AGM/EGM resolution provides for inclusion of two new objectives in the object clause of SIIL's memorandum of association – fertilizers and various chemicals – as potential areas in which the company can make forays. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">CORRUPTION<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Yara probe confirms pay-offs in Indian & other deals<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Norway's Yara International has issued updates on completion of a probe into the "unacceptable" payments that it made to unnamed overseas entities in relations to certain transactions including an aborted joint venture deal with Kribhco. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Yara-appointed law firm Wiersholm has completed investigation into these payments, confirming the concern over the nature of these payments. In April 2011, Yara ordered its own probe after notifying Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Økokrim) of possible irregularities in specified overseas transactions. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">A Yara release says: "An unacceptable payment of US$1-mn in 2007 to a consultant in India is documented, related to negotiations with Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (Kribhco)."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Yara had signed a speciality fertilizers joint venture agreement with Kribhco in April 2007, but the proposal did not take off. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The law firm has also confirmed unacceptable offers of payment to a consultant are documented, related to the establishment of Libyan Norwegian Fertilizer Company (Lifeco).<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">NEED FOR INVESTMENT<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Urea demand-supply gap to rise to 11-mt: FAI</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">India currently produces around 22-mt of urea, while the consumption is around 28-mt. This gap in demand and supply of urea is projected to rise to 11-mt by the 2016-17 fiscal, according to the Fertiliser Association of India (FAI). "There is an urgent need for construction of new urea projects to fill the projected consumption and production gap," FAI's Director General, Mr. Satish Chander noted.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">India was self-sufficient in urea till 2001-02, but with rising consumption and lack of major investments, production could not catch up with increasing demand, he added. Emphasising the need for more investments in the urea sector, Mr. Chander said in view of high capital costs, there has to be a conducive policy for investments in new projects. "The government should come out with the new investment policy for urea. The industry is ready," he added.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">According to a report of the Working Group set up by the Planning Commission for the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17), India needs to invest Rs. 40,000-crore in the fertiliser sector to increase the country's urea production capacity to 33.7-mtpa by the end of the 12th Five Year Plan. Investments in the sector by end of 2010-11 stood at Rs. 27,247-crore, the report said.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">CALL FOR ROLLBACK<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><FONT face="Times New Roman">Tamil Nadu pushes for withdrawal of nutrient-based fertiliser subsidy<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq85Hm6fDn0/T_VHSL5c6JI/AAAAAAAAAw0/Klhhy8bdhWk/s1600/3D2D90F4%254063935F5D.4447F54F-732352.jpg"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vq85Hm6fDn0/T_VHSL5c6JI/AAAAAAAAAw0/Klhhy8bdhWk/s320/3D2D90F4%254063935F5D.4447F54F-732352.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5761589676047394962" /></a></FONT></FONT></SPAN>The Tamil Nadu Government has urged the Central Government to withdraw the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) policy and revert to the earlier system of controlled pricing.</FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Ms. J. Jayalalithaa, has written to the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, to withdraw the prevailing subsidy system, which has resulted in a steep increase in fertiliser prices for farmers. She also requested Dr. Singh to direct the Fertiliser Ministry to allocate to the State the entire quantity of fertiliser that it needs.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><?xml:namespace prefix = v ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:vml" /><v:shapetype id=_x0000_t75 stroked="f" filled="f" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" coordsize="21600,21600"><v:stroke joinstyle="miter"></v:stroke><v:formulas><v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"></v:f></v:formulas><v:path o:connecttype="rect" gradientshapeok="t" o:extrusionok="f"></v:path><o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"></o:lock></v:shapetype><v:shape style="Z-INDEX: 251659264; POSITION: absolute; MARGIN-TOP: 3.75pt; WIDTH: 139pt; HEIGHT: 161.55pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 1.4pt; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-width-relative: page; mso-height-relative: page" id=_x0000_s1026 type="#_x0000_t75"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><v:imagedata src="file:///C:\Users\kaarthik\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.jpg" o:title="Ms. J. Jayalalitha"></v:imagedata><?xml:namespace prefix = w ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:word" /><w:wrap type="square"></w:wrap></FONT></v:shape><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Under the NBS scheme, fertiliser manufacturers and importers are free to fix the sale price of fertilisers based on the costs. Fertiliser prices have gone up two or three times under this scheme. Since April 2012, the retail price of a 50-kg bag of diammonium phosphate (DAP) has increased to Rs. 1,200 from Rs. 910; and muriate of potash (MOP) to Rs. 840 from Rs. 231. The price of complex fertiliser, 10:26:26 has increased to Rs. 1,110 from Rs. 374 and that of 20:20:0:13 to Rs. 858 from Rs. 327. </FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">For the current year, the Fertiliser Department has reduced the subsidy on DAP to Rs. 14,350 from Rs. 19,763 last year and for MOP to Rs. 14,400 from Rs. 16,054. It is also considering further cuts in subsidy and a 10% hike in urea prices are also envisaged, the Chief Minister said. The State Government has absorbed some of the impact of the price hike by doing away with the 4% VAT on fertilisers and pesticides from July 2011. However, the Centre, which dictates the policy, has to support the farmers to make agriculture remunerative, she said.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">"The introduction of the nutrient-based subsidy scheme by the Government from April 1, 2010, coupled with an unreliable supply of fertilisers to the state, is indeed threatening to deprive our farmers of their basic means of sustenance and livelihood." Mr. Jayalalithaa said in the letter.</FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>MMTC to buy one lakh tonnes of complex fertilisers</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">MMTC Ltd. has invited tenders for delivery of 100,000-tonnes of three grades of complex fertilisers during July-September 2012. The three grades of complex fertilisers are: ammonium phosphate sulphate (APS) (20-20-0-13), NPK (15-15-15) and NPK (17-17-17). </FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">MMTC has asked for supply of 50,000-tonnes of APS in two parcels of equal size. The balance requirement of 50,000-tonnes is split equally between two NPK fertilisers. The consignments have to be delivered at Tuticorin port.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">ACCIDENT<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Reactor blast at Nagarjuna Agrichem's AP unit injures 14</SPAN></FONT></B><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Fourteen workers were injured as a reactor exploded at the Nagarjuna Agrichem factory at Chilakapalem in Etcherla mandal of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh on the morning of June 30. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">"There are no casualties in the unfortunate accident, which occurred in the plant at around 9.30 a.m. It is now under control. Fourteen employees were injured in the incident," informed a press note issued by the company. The unit produces pesticide technical formulations and the products are sold in over 20 States.</FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Public outrage<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Tension gripped the area as news of the fire spread through the TV channels and many in the neighbouring villages moved to safer places. The authorities also evacuated some people in the morning and asked people within a radius of 10-km to be on the alert. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Operations were suspended the next day following an agitation by the public. People from the 15 villages in the vicinity staged a demonstration and asked the district authorities to close down the factory immediately. The agitators contended that had the fire spread to the other reactors in the factory the consequences would have been even more disastrous and, therefore, the factory should be shut down immediately. The management was not taking proper safety measures, they alleged.</FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">In response to the agitation, the district administration served a show-cause notice on the management, instructing it to stop operations for a fortnight, and offer an explanation on July 15 on the accident and the related issues. The district authorities assured the public in the nearby villages that all steps would be taken to ensure their safety and that requisite steps would be taken against the management. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">CONFERENCE<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face="Times New Roman">CropWorld India to highlight business innovations<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">CropWorld India, an annual conference being held for the third year, from September 10-11, 2012 in Hyderabad, will focus on highlighting innovation in business, distribution, R&D and product development strategies in the agrochemical, seed and biofertiliser and biopesticide businesses.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The two-day event organized by UBM India will enable participants to identify business opportunities, and trends in diversification, mergers and acquisitions, industry consolidation and portfolio expansion. It will also showcase advances in seed production, processing and hybrid technology, and present case studies on opportunities lying in bio-pesticides and bio-fertilisers.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">According to the organisers, experts from research and industry will highlight innovations in formulation, nanotechnology and encapsulation, while special sessions will provide guidance on market entry and regulatory guidelines on Asian and American markets.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">GROWTH TARGET<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Rallis aims at Rs. 500-cr turnover from Dahej plant in 5 years</SPAN></FONT></B><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Tata Group-owned agrochemicals company, Rallis India, is expecting a Rs. 500-crore turnover in five years from its multi-purpose manufacturing plant at Dahej in Gujarat. This was stated by Tata Sons' Executive Director and Chairman of Rallis India, Mr. R. Gopalkrishnan, while addressing shareholders at the company's annual general meeting (AGM) recently.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">During the year, the company successfully commissioned and started commercial production at its additional manufacturing facility at Dahej, producing a number crop protection products. He said the company will focus more on launching a suit of crop solutions under its green portfolio. The company's net profit stood at Rs. 101.38-crore for the year ending March 31, 2012, while its total revenue was at Rs. 1,260-crore.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P></DIV>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-40919959527657110262012-07-04T23:39:00.000-07:002012-07-04T23:09:05.565-07:00International Flavours & Fragrances opens new facility in Gurgaon<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial><STRONG><EM><U><SPAN lang=EN-GB>STRENGTHENING PRESENCE:</SPAN></U></EM></STRONG></FONT></FONT></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial><STRONG><EM><U><SPAN lang=EN-GB></SPAN></U></EM></STRONG></FONT></FONT><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>International Flavours & Fragrances Inc (IFF) has strengthened its presence in India with the opening of a new facility in Gurgaon. The facility, which is spread over 20,000 square feet, will house creative, technical, sensory, and sales professionals for the company's flavours business unit. The new facility will primarily develop flavours for customers in the National Capital Region, including companies marketing prepared foods, sweets, beverages and dairy products.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>"Our increased presence in India furthers our ongoing strategy to expand our geographic reach and create infrastructure to serve emerging markets, especially those enjoying the most dynamic growth rates and demographics," said Mr. Doug Tough, Chairman and CEO. "IFF has an 80-year history in India, and we are pleased to expand our activities in this attractive region. This new facility, together with our other investments in India and China, underscores our faith in the region, the strength of our Asian teams, and our unwavering commitment to serve our customers' present and future needs."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>IFF is a global major in manufacturing of flavouring agents and fragrances. The investment follows announcements of the opening of a new creative centre in Shanghai and the groundbreaking of two new manufacturing plants in Asia: a flavours production facility in Guangzhou (China) and a liquid flavours and fragrances compounding site in Singapore. The company also recently opened a new facility in Dubai and expanded CapLock capacity in its Haverhill, UK plant.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Indian operations<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The company, which is present in India through a wholly-owned subsidiary, International Flavours & Fragrances India, has two divisions which cater to flavours and fragrances segments respectively. The Indian operations currently contribute 3% to the global turnover, which stood at around US$3-bn. According to IFF India's Managing Director Mr. Sridhar Balakrishnan, the firm's sales have grown 16% year-on-year in the last five years.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The flavours market in India is estimated to be around Rs. 1,200 crores per annum, growing at 12% annually. The firm has been expanding its presence in the last few years. It has two manufacturing facilities in Chennai and one Jammu. It also has eight contract manufacturers across India. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Mr. Hernan Vaisman, Group President, Flavours, added, "This is a very exciting time for our industry in India. Like a lot of working families and busy individuals around the world, India's consumers are not only looking for great, authentic taste and convenience, they are also looking for healthier options in the foods they eat. We have extensive in-house talent creating the best tastes for the Indian market as well as excellent R&D capabilities and technologies that have already helped customers in other regions reduce sodium, sugar, and fat in their products. We are firmly committed to supporting our customers in this dynamic region."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The emerging markets, which include India, China, Indonesia, Russia, contributed around 46% to the global turnover of IFF.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="COLOR: red" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Aluminium phosphide tablet makers move tribunal against CCI fine</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The order of Competition Commission of India (CCI) imposing a penalty of Rs. 317.91-crore on aluminium phosphide tablet manufacturers for allegedly forming a cartel and manipulating price has been challenged before Competition Appellate Tribunal (Compat). Two firms – Excel Crop Care and Sandhya Organics Chemical – have challenged the findings of the CCI before the Compat. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Aluminium phosphide tablets are used as a rodenticide, insecticide and fumigant for stored cereal grains. It is used to kill small verminous mammals such as moles and rodents. Passing an order in April, the CCI had imposed the fine on three manufacturers. The commission had imposed fine of Rs. 252.44-crore on United Phosphorus Ltd. and Rs. 63.90-crore and Rs. 1.57-crore, respectively, on Excel Crop Care and Sandhya Organics. The penalty was computed on the basis of 9% of the average of three years turnover on the three producers.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The CCI had ordered a probe after receiving complaints from the Food Corporation of India (FCI). The CMD of FCI had informed the fair trade regulator in February 2011 about the rise in cost of procurement of aluminium phosphide tablet due to formation of cartel by the manufacturers. The PSU had further alleged that manufacturers quoted incidental rates and inflated the price in bids invited for preservation of food grain in the central pool.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face=Arial>MRPL PP project construction affected; commissioning likely to go into 2013<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Work on the 440-ktpa polypropylene (PP) project of Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals Ltd. (MRPL), which is part of a Phase III refinery expansion project, has been affected due delay in handing over of the leveled site to the contractor, free of encumbrance. The delay has been caused due to relocation of existing underground pipelines in the new proposed area for the PP unit and re-routing of the existing road required for site grading.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>While the project has achieved a physical progress of 79.3% as of April, 2012, as against the planned 96.3%, construction progress is lagging far behind at 36.6%, as against the scheduled 93.4%. The manufacturing progress also stands at a reasonable 95.6%, as against the scheduled 100%.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The project was sanctioned in July 2009, with a scheduled completion date of April 2012, but according to the Project Monitoring Report (up to April 2012) of Engineers India Ltd. (EIL), the project management contractor, the project is presently running behind by eight months with a completion deadline of December 2012. However, the project is likely to miss this revised deadline because of the delay in handing over of the leveled site and a fresh deadline will be worked out after the graded site is made available.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Karnataka government sanctions special incentive package<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The PP unit is just a part of the Rs. 12,160-crore Phase-III Refinery Project, which involves setting up of a 3-mtpa crude distillation unit/vacuum distillation unit (CDU/VDU), a 2.2-mtpa fluidised catalytic cracking unit (FCCU), a 3-mtpa delayed coker unit (DCU), a 3.7-mtpa diesel hydrotreating unit (DHU), a 0.65-mtpa coker heavy gas oil hydrotreating unit (CHTU) and a 70-ktpa hydrogen generation unit, among other facilities. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>To give a boost to the project, the Government of Karnataka has sanctioned a special incentive package, which includes:<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>1.Exemption from payment of entry tax on plant and machinery and capital goods during the initial period of four years from the date of commencement of project implementation;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>2.Exemption from payment of entry tax on crude oil required for third phase, over and above the refining capacity of first and second phase, for a period of 15 years from the start of commercial production of third phase;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>3.Exemption from Central Sales Tax (CST) for a period of 15 years from the date of commencement of commercial production of third phase for all interstate sales made out of the Phase-III throughput.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial></FONT></FONT></SPAN> </P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><FONT size=4>4.Interest-free soft loan at the rate of 100% of the eligible gross VAT during the first three years and thereafter at 60% of eligible gross VAT, on the sale of polypropylene, petroleum coke, LSHS, naphtha, LPG (incremental production), mixed xylenes and reformate to non-SEZ units for a period of 15 years to be repaid in 15 years, in annual installments thereafter, limited to Rs. 500-crore per annum.</FONT> <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>BATTLE FOR CONTROL<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>High Court refuses stay on share transfer of Haldia Petrochemicals</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The Calcutta High Court has refused to pass an interim stay on any proposal for transfer of shares of Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd. (HPL) to IOC or ONGC. Justice Indira Banerjee, while refusing to pass an interim stay on a plea by Winstar India Investment Company Ltd., promoted by The Chatterjee Group (TCG), kept the order in abeyance till June 25 so it could appeal against the order before a higher court. The court, however, did not intervene on the question of Winstar's submission that it did not have any representation on the board of HPL, despite having a 7.5% stake in the company.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Winstar had moved the court claiming that a board meeting of HPL was scheduled to be held on June 19 to allow transfer of shares to IOC or ONGC. Winstar claimed that it held 7.5% in HPL, but had no representation on the board of the company and as such could not have a say in the proceedings. The board meeting saw the resignation of Managing Director, Mr. Partha Bhattacharyya and Mr. Sumantra Chowdhury taking over on behest of the West Bengal government.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The West Bengal government and TCG, promoters of HPL, the largest petrochemical company in West Bengal, are locked in a bitter battle over transfer of shares of the company.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>TCG had moved the International Court of Arbitration in Paris on the issue of transferring shares of HPL, as it wanted to buy 155-mn shares to control majority stake in HPL, which was rejected by the West Bengal government. TCG, along with its associate companies, holds 34.07% in HPL.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>SPECIALITY CHEMICALS CONCLAVE<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Clariant experts highlight latest trends in Indian personal care and colorants sectors</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The impact of the growing preference of bio-based products on the personal care industry and the regulatory changes in colorants were highlighted by experts from Clariant at the recently concluded 'Specialty Chemicals Conclave 2012' organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in Mumbai recently.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>In his presentation on "Trends in the Indian personal care market", Dr. Alexander Snell, Head of Business Unit Industrial & Consumer Specialties, Clariant Chemicals (India) Ltd emphasised the stability of the personal care market despite the economic crisis, and India's position as one of the countries with the highest global growth rates for personal care products. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Dr. Snell identified the key trends impacting India's personal care market as:<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>1.Growing preference for bio-based products;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>2.Faster growth for higher value-added brands;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>3.Younger generation's preference for quality global brands;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>4.Slow change from old formats (bars, oils, talcum powder) to more modern formats (liquid soap, hand sanitiser, 2-in-1 shampoos, deodorants); and<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>5.Growth of men's grooming market (creams, deodorants).<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Dr. Snell said Clariant is responding to these trends with its new bio-based product line, 'Velsan', which meets requirements for bio-based products and also offers additional value such as skin repair, and exceptional moisturising and hair repair qualities.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Regulatory issues affecting pigments industry<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Later, Dr. Dileep Wakankar, Head of Product Stewardship India – Clariant Chemicals (India) Ltd., spoke about the regulatory issues affecting the pigments industry. He outlined the stringent regulations in Europe, America and China and pointed to the differences with India's current restrictions.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>"It is only a matter of time till similar regulations and restrictions will be enforced in India in the interest of human health and environmental safety. To ensure sustained business the country's colorant industry needs to prepare itself for compliance with such regulations," he commented.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>TACKLING INFECTIONS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><FONT face=Arial>Copper Front India permitted to use antimicrobial copper brand and marks<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The International Copper Promotion Council (India) has awarded Copper Front India P. Ltd. the permission to use the 'Antimicrobial copper' (Cu+) brand and marks on their products. 'Antimicrobial Copper' is the only touch surface material to have US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration, which supports the claim to continuously kill more than 99.9% of the bacteria that cause healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) within two hours of contact.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Copper is the active, microbe-killing ingredient. It can be combined with other metals to create alloys such as brass and bronze. These materials can be used to create a wide variety of antimicrobial touch surfaces suitable for a range of products and applications.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Leading manufacturers of hospital equipment, furniture and fittings use this mark to indicate that their products contain 'Antimicrobial Copper'. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Copper Front has become the first manufacturer in India to be awarded such a certification.<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="COLOR: red"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>COMPOSITES<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face=Arial>Toho Tenax partners with Hindoostan Tech to market carbon fibre textiles<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Toho Tenax Co., Ltd. (Japan) has announced that it will develop and market carbon fibre fabrics for India's composite industry in collaboration with Hindoostan Technical Fabrics Ltd. (HTFL), a carbon and aramid textile manufacturer wholly-owned by Hindoostan Mills, Ltd., a textile company which is part of the Thackersey Group. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Under the partnership, Toho Tenax will supply its proprietary <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Tenax</I> carbon fibre to HTFL for weaving into quality textiles. The two companies will jointly market products to manufacturers of composite materials and reinforced sheets. The focus of the collaboration will be on the Indian composite industry serving industrial domains, including transportation (automotive, aerospace and railway); wind power; sports and leisure; medical equipment; construction reinforcement and retrofitting; electronics (computer and mobile phone housings), as well as a host of other industrial applications.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Toho Tenax, which already supplies chopped carbon fibre in India, sees significant potential in the nation's carbon fibre market, and is preparing to meet surging demand from various customers for highly valued intermediate material including prepregs.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>"The collaboration between Hindoostan Technical Fabrics, with its advanced textile technology and strong presence in the Indian market, and Toho Tenax, the world's second largest carbon fibre maker with a proven track record in the global carbon fibre composite market, will enable us to quickly secure a stronger market position in India," said Mr. Norio Kamei, president of Toho Tenax and head of the Teijin group's carbon fibres and composites business.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Markets growing 20% annually<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>India's composite industry has recorded robust growth of about 20% per annum over the last five years. Tenax carbon fibre textile is already used globally in a wide range of composite products, such as automotive parts, wind-turbine generator blades, medical machinery and machine tools.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>OVERSEAS PRESENCE<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Kansai Nerolac acquires 68% stake in Nepal paints firm</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Kansai Nerolac has acquired 68% stake in one of the leading paint manufacturers in Nepal, Nepal Shalimar for Rs. 7.55-crore.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Considered in the 'top 5' suppliers in the country, Nepal Shalimar currently commands a market share of 8%. It had a turnover of NPR 20.57-crore (Rs. 12.34-crore) in 2010-11.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>"With the acquisition of this leading paint maker in Nepal, we expect to capture nearly 15% market share in the current fiscal year," said Kansai Nerolac's Managing Director, Mr. H.M. Bharuka. "We have been exporting our products to Nepal, but due to heavy duties there, we could not expand our business there. To expand our footprint there, we were considering two options – either an acquisition or setting up a manufacturing facility. We will utilise the company's plant to manufacture the Nerolac range of products, which are currently exported to Nepal," he added. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Kansai Nerolac will also provide a loan of around Rs. 6.12-crore to fund the working capital requirements of Nepal Shalimar, he said.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>ANALYTICAL INSTRUMENTS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Waters initiates online ordering of its products</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>US-based analytical technologies major, Waters Corporation, is marking the 25th anniversary of the start of business operations in India, with the initiation of online ordering through a new order centre. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2 face=Arial>Scientists and customers can now search and order Waters parts, sample preparation products, chemistries and consumables online at </FONT><A href="http://www.waters.com/order"><FONT color=#024d99 size=2 face=Arial>www.waters.com/order</FONT></A><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>. With the new order centre, Waters is introducing several new features designed to facilitate ordering and lower transaction costs by including the posting of real-time product availability, local currency pricing, available discounts, order tracking and special offers.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Scientists will now be able to select products of interest and easily share their cart with procurement professionals.<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="COLOR: red"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>OVERSEAS INVESTMENT<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face=Arial>Polyplex to invest in PET plant in Turkey; eyeing PTA project<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Polyplex Corp. of India, the fourth largest producer of polyester film in the world, and the Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Turkey (ISPAT), have jointly announced the decision of Polyplex to select Turkey to support its global expansion to produce polyethylene terephthalate (PET).<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The production plant to be built at Corlu, in the northwestern province of Tekirdag, at a cost of $150-mn, will employ 250 people and is a part of Polyplex's strategy to cooperate with its large scale industrial customers in Turkey and beyond. The plant will have capacity to produce 600,000-tpa of PET resin, of which 70-80% will be destined to export markets like the USA, Russia and Europe.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Polyplex is planning to begin the design and construction of the PET plant this year for completion by 2015. The facility will use locally available purified terephthalic acid (PTA) as feedstock to start operations, but is also considering an additional capital expenditure of $500-mn in the near future to produce this raw material.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>Polyplex, with it's headquarters in Noida, has three manufacturing facilities: at Khatima, Distt. Udham Singh Nagar in Uttarakhand; at Rayong province in Thailand; and at Çorlu, in Turkey.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>CALL FOR PAPERS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face=Arial>International conference on 'Innovation in Technologies for Processing of Rubber & Elastomers' to be held in Mumbai<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><U><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: none"><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></SPAN></o:p></SPAN></U></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial></FONT></FONT></SPAN> </P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The Polymer Processing Academy (PPA), which was established on 5 March 2011 in Mumbai to provide a single forum of all branches of polymer processing (plastics, rubbers, elastomers, fibres, coatings, adhesives etc.), is organizing an international conference on<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </B>'Innovation in Technologies for Processing of Rubber & Elastomers'<B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"> </B>in Mumbai on 26-27 October, 2012.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The PPA has invited Technical Papers on the following broad topics:<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>1.Importance of rheology and its understanding in enhancing the processing of rubbers & elastomers;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>2.Compounding of rubbers & elastomers for improved processing;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>3.Emerging processing technologies for rubbers & elastomers;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>4.New developments in testing & evaluation; <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>5.Current status in R&D and polymer modification in rubbers & elastomers;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>6.Innovations in reinforcements, additives and nanomaterials;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>7.Emerging trends in recycling of rubbers & elastomers;<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>8.Green technologies and advances in sustainability issues; and<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: auto auto 0pt; mso-add-space: auto" class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=3><FONT face=Arial>9.Shift in applications from rubbers to thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs).<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2 face=Arial>For details contact:<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Mr. Manu Patel, Chief Convener, Conference Secretariat: Attuned Polymers Laboratories, 308-312, Rajasthan Technical Centre, Patanwala Estate, LBS Marg, Ghatkopar (W), Mumbai 400086.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Tel: 022-25001566, 25004513; E-mail: </FONT><A href="mailto:manupatel31@yahoo.com"><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext"><FONT size=2 face=Arial>manupatel31@yahoo.com</FONT></SPAN></A><FONT size=2 face=Arial>, </FONT><A href="mailto:attuned03@yahoo.com"><SPAN style="COLOR: windowtext"><FONT size=2 face=Arial>attuned03@yahoo.com</FONT></SPAN></A><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="COLOR: red; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>NEWS IN BRIEF<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt" lang=EN-GB><FONT face=Arial>Dumping probe on pentaerythritol imports from Saudi Arabia<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>The Government has initiated a probe into alleged dumping of pentaerythritol by Saudi Arabia. The Commerce Ministry's designated authority, the Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD), has started an investigation on the basis of an application filed by Kanoria Chemicals and Industries Ltd. The chemical is mainly used in explosives and pharmaceuticals. The period of investigation is from April 2010 to June 2011, but the injury investigation will also cover the periods 2008-09, 2009-10 and 2010-11. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face=Arial><SPAN style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Govt. postpones implementation of cosmetics rules</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face=Arial>India has delayed enactment of the Drugs and Cosmetics (fourth amendment) Rules 2010 to 1 October 2012, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The rules specify the requirements for registration and import of cosmetics in India. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify; MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class=MsoNormal align=left><FONT face=Arial><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2>This is the second time that the government has delayed enactment of the changes. The original date for entry into force was 1 April 2011, but on 29 September 2011 this was put back to 1 April 2012.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></FONT></P>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-35740102446010473242012-07-04T23:28:00.000-07:002012-07-04T22:58:28.676-07:00AMRI further expands discovery capabilities in India<DIV> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"><STRONG><EM><U>RECRUITMENTS:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></U></EM></STRONG></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">As part of a long-term strategic plan to further discovery capabilities in India, Albany Molecular Research, Inc. (AMRI), a global contract research and manufacturing organization offering customers fully integrated drug discovery, development and manufacturing services, has announced the hiring of two experts in medicinal and computational chemistry at its research center located in Hyderabad (HRC).<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Simultaneously, the company announced the completion of the relocation of custom library synthesis resources and capabilities to HRC from the company's Budapest (Hungary) operations.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">"The new hires and relocation of resources provide additional flexibility to enhance productivity and client service for AMRI's global drug discovery operations, which draw upon a broad spectrum of service capabilities from multiple sites," the company stated in a press release.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Dr. Srinivas Nanduri, Ph.D., has been hired as Director of Medicinal Chemistry in India, reporting to Mr. Subramanyam Maddala, President of India Operations. In addition, Dr. Suneel Kumar Bommisetty, Ph.D., was hired as Senior Research Associate of Computational Chemistry, reporting to Dr. Nanduri. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">These newly created positions are expected to further strengthen AMRI's capabilities in problem-solving medicinal chemistry and complement its current strength in custom synthesis at HRC.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">"Dr. Nanduri and Dr. Bommisetty bring a high level of medicinal chemistry expertise, a strong track record of industry experience and additional drug discovery project management experience to the Hyderabad site," Mr. Maddala said. "AMRI is committed to providing best-of-class services to our customers, and servicing the entire value chain of contract research services. These additions enhance our capabilities to move towards that target."<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">LOOKING AHEAD<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><FONT face="Times New Roman">Favourable outlook forecast for Indian pharma industry<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The outlook on the Indian pharmaceutical industry remains favourable, according to a new report by ICRA & Moody. Domestic formulation market grew by 13-16% per annum in last five years and is valued at Rs. 58,300-crore. It is ranked third in terms of volume and tenth in terms of value, globally. The domestic growth was driven mainly by expansion in volumes and new introductions. Lifestyle-related disorders are driving growth at faster pace in chronic segments along with increasing healthcare spending, the report said.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Product patent regime was not seen as a major constraint; companies have not been affected as existing products continue to exhibit extended life cycle and companies continue to launch novel combinations to support growth. Moreover, a limited number of products have been launched under patent protection in India.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The report expects domestic companies to face challenges and competition from regulatory driven price cuts, smaller players' aggression and MNC generic majors coming in to tap the $12-13-bn market growing at 14-15% per annum.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">MNCs have stepped up their focus on the Indian market as they are pursuing a comprehensive strategy. They are focusing on chronics, branded generics and launching patented products from portfolio of parent companies, expanding their field force and focusing on Tier-II as well as Tier-IV towns. Even as the domestic market grew at 15%, MNC pharma revenue grew at 18.7%, the report indicated.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">SETBACK<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><FONT face="Times New Roman">Natco Pharma loses US patent suit filed by Teva<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Natco Pharma has lost a patent infringement suit in the US filed by Israeli pharma major Teva over sale of generic version of 'Copaxone', a drug used to treat multiple sclerosis.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">In a ruling delivered on June 22, 2012, the US District Court, New York, upheld the contention of Teva Pharmaceuticals that Natco's abbreviated new drug application (ANDA) for Copaxone infringed all asserted claims of Teva. The Hyderabad-based company had filed an ANDA for Copaxone with its partner, Mylan Inc, in June 2008 and obtained a Para IV certification, which challenged the existing patents held by Teva.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The ruling might have repercussions on Natco's court case at Delhi High Court, where it is locked in a patent infringement suit with Teva over the same drug. Natco said it will appeal once the court's full order is available. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman','serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: EN-US" lang=EN-GB><BR style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: always" clear=all></SPAN> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">SEEKING FUNDS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Higher allocation sought for biotech sector in</SPAN></B><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB> <B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal">12th Plan period</B></SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is pressing for a three-fold increase in allocation for the 12th Five Year Plan. "Considering the maximal utilisation of allocations and implementation trends of the Department, increasing needs of bio-industrial development and clearly focused programmes for 12th Plan, the working group of the Planning Commission has recommended an investment of Rs. 17,887.81 crores for 2012-2017 at the rate of three-fold fold increase over 11th Plan allocation," a senior official of the DBT said.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Higher budgetary allocations (Rs. 6,389-crore) for the 11th Plan as compared to 10th Plan (Rs. 1,653-crore) had aided major expansion of programmes for the biotech sector. The achievements included seven new autonomous R&D institutions, 10 translational research centres and platforms, grand challenge mission mode programmes, 50 centres of excellence, more than 2,400 R&D projects in priority areas involving more than 3,000 investigators and 6,000 research personnel, 100 public private partnership projects and key global partnerships involving high investments. These major government initiatives helped biotech industry revenues increase from Rs. 8,541-crore in 2006-07 to Rs. 17,249-crore during 2010-11.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The main emphasis of 12th Plan is scaling up of existing successful schemes by at least three folds and starting of several new initiatives in human resource development; expansion and establishment of new generation research resources, facilities and services; major support to universities and institutions for interdisciplinary research in medical sciences and biopharmaceuticals; mega national projects on mission mode in specific areas of chronic diseases, agriculture productivity, climate change, bioengineering and bio-fuels; sustained support to newly established autonomous institutions and expansion of existing institutions for setting up innovation and translational centres.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">SUPPORT FOR START-UPS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><FONT face="Times New Roman">New scheme launched to drive early stage innovation in biotech sector<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The 'Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council' (BIRAC), recently set up by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to stimulate research and innovation capabilities of the Indian biotech industry, has launched the Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) scheme for igniting new ideas in biotechnology. The scheme is for potential entrepreneurs from academia, start-ups or an incubatee (researchers, PhDs, medical degree holders, biomedical engineering graduates) who have an exciting idea, which may be in the nascent and planning stage, and there is an unmet need for mentorship and initial funding. The scheme will help to support and nurture these high-risk early starters and their concepts.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The main aim of the scheme is to establish and validate proof-of-concept and also to enable creation of spin-offs. The scheme supports only up-to proof-of-concept stage.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 8pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">BIRAC will issue a national call for BIG scheme at least twice each year. The scheme would be implemented through partners called the BIG Partners, across the country. Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), Bangalore; Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), New Delhi; and IKP Knowledge Park, Hyderabad are the current BIG Partners. Established recently as a 'Not-for-Profit' Section 25 company, BIRAC is the DBT's inter-face agency for supporting industry-academia interaction, and will serve as a single window for the emerging biotech industry in the country.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN style="COLOR: red" lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Daiichi Sankyo to market Ranbaxy products in Venezuela</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Daiichi Sankyo's subsidiary, Daiichi Sankyo Venezuela SA, will commence marketing of Ranbaxy products in Venezuela – the third largest market in Latin America – as part of the hybrid business model. Till now, Ranbaxy has been marketing the products in Venezuela through a local distributor. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Daiichi Sankyo has started its business in Venezuela prior to the other Japanese pharmaceutical companies and has built its presence with innovative pharmaceuticals such as the hypertension medicine 'Benicar' (olmesartan medoxomil). Daiichi Sankyo will now also focus on expanding Ranbaxy's portfolio of medicines to promote the hybrid business model, encompassing both innovative and established pharmaceuticals to expand and strengthen its presence in Venezuela.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">DIFFERING VIEWS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>India, Brazil and China defend generic drugs at WTO</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">India, Brazil and China have defended the right of poor countries to access cheap generic medicines at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), resisting attempts by the US, Japan and some other developed countries to club counterfeits or copies of patented drugs with fake or spurious ones. "The cases of seizure of high quality generic or off-patent drugs by third countries that hold patents for these could gain legitimacy if counterfeits are confused with fakes," an Indian official said.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">In a recent meeting of the WTO's Trips Council, developed countries such as Canada, Switzerland and the EU said they considered counterfeiting to be one of the most serious problems to be discussed by the council. These countries said counterfeit medicines not only cause economic loss, but also put the lives of patients at risk as they could be "dangerously sub-standard".<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">India, Brazil and China, however, argued that infringing intellectual property rights should not be confused with sub-standard products and the issue of fake drugs should be discussed at other forums and not the WTO.<BR style="mso-special-character: line-break"><BR style="mso-special-character: line-break"><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Changing definitions<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Interestingly, many developed countries, led by the US and the EU, had earlier tried to convince WHO to include fake drugs in the definition of counterfeits. India, with the support of countries like Thailand and Indonesia, managed to convince the WHO that merging of definitions was not only unwarranted, but could also be counterproductive in terms of supply of cheap medicines to the poor.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Counterfeits are copies of patented drugs that may have infringed intellectual property rights of patent holding companies. However, a product that is considered a counterfeit in one country may not necessarily be so in another as it may be off-patent there. Therefore, if counterfeits are considered as fake, countries that hold patents to particular drugs could destroy consignment of copycat version of those drugs that pass through their ports on health grounds without fear of retribution. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">FEE-BASED SYSTEM<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Indian drug firms amenable to US law on enhanced inspection</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The Indian generic drug industry is generally receptive to the proposed US law on medicine even though it seeks to enhance US-FDA inspection of the manufacturing facilities globally for a fee. Industry players and analysts feel that while the level of inspection by the US-FDA will increase, the clearances will be faster to enable expeditious exports of the generics to the world's biggest and most lucrative market.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The 'FDA user fee reauthorisation bill', which has been cleared by US House of Representatives, now goes to the US Senate for voting. By taking a fee for new drug filings and for foreign inspections, the US-FDA will build resources it needs to complete inspections fast. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">According to estimates, the FDA could collect around US$6.4-bn in fees from companies all over the world over the next five years. According to industry estimates, the FDA currently has a backlog of roughly 2,700 generic drugs awaiting review.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">FRAMING RULES<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Technology transfer might not be mandatory for FDI in existing pharma firms</SPAN></B><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">An inter-ministerial group set up to frame rules on FDI (foreign direct investment) for brownfield proposals in the pharma sector has decided to do away with the mandatory transfer of technology by the foreign investor to the target company. A brownfield investment means acquiring or buying stake in an existing company.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The group has said the clause mandating the requirement proposed by the health ministry would restrict foreign investors and compliance would be difficult to monitor. However, the group has imposed riders on the quantity of generic drugs a foreign company must produce for the domestic market and the enhanced investment in research and development it must make.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The group was formed after there were major delays in the clearing of FDI proposals due to differences between the health ministry, which favoured stiff riders, and other departments keen on a liberal regime. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">In November last year, the government had made FDI in brownfield pharma companies stricter by putting it under FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) scrutiny and moving it out of the automatic approval route. However, amid growing inter-ministerial differences, the Commerce Ministry decided to set up the said group with representatives from the health ministry, the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), the Department of Pharmaceuticals and others.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P></DIV>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-30215968644237901082012-07-04T23:25:00.000-07:002012-07-04T22:55:40.776-07:00Low coal prices could change supply side dynamics<DIV> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"><EM><U><STRONG>ENERGY PRICING<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></STRONG></U></EM></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"></FONT></FONT></SPAN> </P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Fitch Ratings believes the weakness seen in thermal coal prices in recent months should reverse once demand from major importers recovers, although there is a risk low prices may persist into 2013, changing the industry's supply side dynamics.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The price of thermal coal (5,500 kcal coal at Newcastle, Australia on FOB basis) reached a two-year low of US$87 per tonne in early June 2012, down from US$142 per tonne in January 2011. Major reasons for this decline include China's economic slowdown and high coal inventory levels, increased production and exports from Indonesia and Australia, and increased exports by US coal producers due to cheap natural gas displacing coal used in US power generation.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Price recovery once India & China enter market<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Fitch believes prices can recover from current lows once demand from key importers – China and India – improves, and the supply side adjusts to reflect the price environment. India depends on coal as its major energy source and is increasingly relying on imported coal as it struggles to increase domestic production. Likewise in China, thermal coal fired power represents more than 70% of the country's energy needs; Fitch believes thermal coal demand from China will lift again post sufficient policy easing by the government, and continue rising over the medium-to-long term in line with the country's strong GDP growth outlook, albeit lower than previous years.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The weak pricing environment is exposing the business risks of high-cost coal producers, including many Australian producers with high cash costs of production, as coal prices fall near or below the marginal cost of production. According to Fitch, such operators will be significantly affected if prices remain low for an extended period. At the same time, sustained low coal prices can shift buyers from low-rank coal to higher-grade coals and thus negatively affect both demand and realised prices for low-rank coal.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Fitch notes that many large coal producers have contracts in place with both volumes and prices fixed, typically for a period of one year. These operators would be insulated from a temporary weakening of coal prices to some extent. However, should low prices persist through 2012 and into 2013, it will negatively affect the prices they negotiate for 2013; such negotiations typically take place in Q4 and Q1 of each calendar year.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Production cuts likely<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Should the current low price environment persist into 2013, Fitch expects high-cost producers in Australia and the US to undertake production cuts, and review expansion projects under consideration. Fitch also believes that production expansion plans by low-cost producing countries like Indonesia may be curtailed. Such actions would limit coal production levels (or growth) and help address oversupply.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">ENERGY SUPPLIES<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT face="Times New Roman">Reddy pitches for more petroleum supplies from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Algeria and Qatar<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The petroleum minister, Mr. S. Jaipal Reddy held a series of bilateral meetings with his counterparts from different countries at Vienna (Austria) on the sidelines of the 5th OPEC International Seminar. The wide-ranging talks with his counterparts form Iran, Saudi Arabia, Algeria and Qatar were focused on sourcing more crude oil, LNG, LPG and promoting investments in hydrocarbon sector projects.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Mr. Reddy met Mr. Ali al-Naimi, Minister of Petroleum & Mineral Resources, Saudi Arabia – the largest supplier of crude oil and LPG – and asked for an additional 5-mt of crude oil and 1.5-mt of LPG, over and above the 32-mt of crude oil India had imported during 2011-12. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Investments in downstream refining & petrochemicals<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Regarding Saudi Aramco and other companies investing in India's petrochemical and downstream sector, Mr. al-Naimi assured that this would be favorably examined and appropriate advice would be issued to its national oil companies.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The Ministers of India and Qatar discussed matters of bilateral interest, including larger supplies of crude oil. During 2011-12, India imported 6.41-mt of crude oil from Qatar. Both sides also discussed the long-term LNG contract between Petronet LNG Ltd. (PLL) and RasGas for another 3.5-mt of LNG, including the need to settle the pricing issue at the earliest. PLL has long-term contract with RasGas for 7.5-mtpa of LNG. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Mr. Reddy also met Mr. Youcef Yousfi, Minister of Energy and Mines, Algeria and asked for additional quantities of crude oil. He also expressed interest in investing in Algeria's upcoming LNG sector with the objective of some quantities of LNG being booked for India.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=MsoNormal><SPAN style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Gail India Ltd. is already in talks with the Algerian government-owned company Sonatrach for tying up LNG imports on an annual basis.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">SALES TAX LIABILITY<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>Gujarat HC rejects Essar Oil plea, asks Govt to expedite recovery</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The Gujarat High Court has rejected Essar Oil Ltd. (EOL) plea for relief in repayment of over Rs. 8,000-crore due as sales tax deferment liability and directed the state to expedite the recovery. The court rejected the petition of EOL, which had sought that the company be allowed to pay the tax dues of Rs. 6,414-crore in eight yearly instalments and grant it exemption from paying penalty and interest of Rs. 2,000-crores.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Coming down heavily on the EOL, the bench observed that, "The petitioner should have acted as a good company and furnished the amount to the government and not defrauded the state for its commercial benefit. The state government is directed to expedite recovery process of the entire amount due." The Court also observed that, "We fail to understand why the company, which had collected sales tax from its customers and invested the said amount in its own project, ask for such benefit on equitable grounds." <BR style="mso-special-character: line-break"><BR style="mso-special-character: line-break"><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Earlier this year the Supreme Court had upheld Gujarat government's appeal against the company's sales tax deferral benefit claims for its Vadinar refinery. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">The crux of the dispute was whether the Vadinar refinery is eligible for sales tax deferment under an erstwhile incentive scheme of the Gujarat government. Since the refinery started production later than the specified time, the Gujarat government held the company ineligible. After the Supreme Court verdict, tax authorities of Gujarat Government had issued a demand notice to EOL for repayment of sales tax deferment benefits utilised by the company. The state government had put the company's tax dues at Rs. 8,414-crore, which included interest and penalty.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman"><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB>Seeking bank loan</SPAN></B><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 6pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></FONT></FONT></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Meanwhile London-listed Essar Energy has informed that it is in advanced talks with banks for a $1-bn loan to meet its sales tax liability of $1.2-bn to the Gujarat government. Essar Oil is 87% owned by Essar Energy.<BR style="mso-special-character: line-break"><BR style="mso-special-character: line-break"><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">"We will be raising a corporate loan of $1-bn to fund the repayment of this sales tax liability and are currently in advanced negotiations with our Indian lender. We plan to close the matter soon," said Mr. Naresh Nayyar, CEO, Essar Energy.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Return to profitability this year<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">Essar Energy has reported a pre-tax loss of $1.14-bn for the fifteen months ending in March, hit by the costs relating to its loss of the Gujarat tax case and interest charges. However, Mr. Nayyar said the company should return to profitability in its current financial year. Following the completion of the expansion and optimisation of its Vadinar refinery, improvements to margins would raise EBITDA by around $700-mn annually, while progress with operational improvements at its Stanlow refinery in the UK was expected to add up to $225-mn to annual EBITDA. These and the addition of new power generation capacity meant that most of the project risks the company had borne over the past year were over, he argued. "We have created assets and increased the capacity of our refinery and power businesses which have all started delivering now," he said.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">RAISING FUNDS<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><FONT face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang=EN-GB>ONGC likely to list OVL in 2013</SPAN><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><B style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></B></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">ONGC is mulling listing its overseas investment arm ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL) next year to raise funds for aggressive foreign acquisitions. In its 'Perspective Plan 2030', ONGC has set a target of production of OVL's overseas properties jumping to 20-mt of oil and oil equivalent gas by 2017 and 60-mt by 2030 from current over 9-mt. <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">To achieve this, the company will have to pursue aggressive acquisitions of both exploration and producing assets. These kinds of targets need several billion dollars, all of which cannot come from its parent ONGC. To meet the huge requirement, the company may go for an initial public offering of at least 10% equity shares.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><o:p><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class=NoSpacing><SPAN lang=EN-GB><FONT size=2><FONT face="Times New Roman">OVL, which 31 overseas oil and gas projects besides interest in a couple of pipelines, is nation's second largest exploration and production company. It is 100% owned by ONGC.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P></DIV>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-90712292360590044382012-07-04T10:12:00.000-07:002012-07-04T09:42:39.329-07:00Ester Gum: A vital player in food additive segment<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"> </b>MANASI PANDEY, DR.ROBIN SANTRA* <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">Jubilant Industries Ltd.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">R&D-I, C-26, Sector -59, Noida-201301</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">E-mail: <a href="mailto:r_santra@jubl.com">r_santra@jubl.com</a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b>Introduction </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="color:windowtext">Ester Gum, a pale, medium-hard thermoplastic resin, is the glycerol ester of wood rosin. It is produced by a special process that yields a low-odour, low-acid-number product. </span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span class="yshortcuts1"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="color:windowtext"></span></b></span><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";mso-no-proof:yes"><br></span><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; color:windowtext"></span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:windowtext">Glycerol ester of wood rosin is a complex mixture of tri- and diglycerol esters of resin acids from wood rosin obtained by the solvent extraction of aged pine stumps followed by a liquid-liquid solvent refining process. The refined wood rosin is composed of approximately 90% resin acids and 10% neutrals (non-acidic compounds). The resin acid fraction is a complex mixture of isomeric diterpenoid monocarboxylic acids having the typical empirical formula C<sub>19</sub>H<sub>29</sub>COOH, of which the main component is abietic acid. The substance is purified by steam stripping or by counter-current steam distillation.</span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:windowtext"><br></span></span></p> <p style="margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:windowtext">Common names for glycerol ester of gum rosin include: glycerol-modified gum rosin, rosin glycerol ester, glycerol abietate, glyceryl triabietate or ester gum.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ignore:vglayout;position:absolute; z-index:251661312;margin-left:217px;margin-top:3px;width:2px;height:19px"><img src="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CKaarthik%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_image009.gif" height="19" width="2"></span><span style="mso-ignore:vglayout;position:absolute; z-index:251660288;margin-left:22px;margin-top:3px;width:2px;height:19px"><img src="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CKaarthik%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_image009.gif" height="19" width="2"></span>Ester Gum occurs as white to yellow-whitish powder, light yellow to light brown glassy lumps, hard, to pale yellow amber-coloured solid or as a clear, viscous liquid. It is odorless or has a slight, characteristic odor.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:center 3.25in"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Raw materials & their characteristic</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">The raw materials required for manufacture of ester gum are wood rosin and glycerol.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rosin</i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">Rosin is one of the oldest raw materials for adhesive industry, either as such or converted to rosin ester. Three types of rosin are used for resin manufacture, gum rosin, wood rosin and tall oil rosin, all generated from the pine tree.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Gum Rosin</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">Gum rosin was once the only commercial source of rosin. It is the oleoresin (pine gum) of the living pine tree. The harvesting of the oleoresin is simple, involving only periodic wounding of the tree and collecting of the exudates into cups.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Wood rosin</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">After harvesting pine trees the stump is allowed to remain in the ground for about ten years so that its bark and sapwood may decay and slough off to leave the heartwood rich in resin. Resinous material is extracted from stump.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Tall oil rosin</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">Tall oil rosin is obtained by distillation of crude tall oil (CTO); a by-product of the kraft sulphate pulping process. CTO contains 70-90% acidic material, which is composed essentially of fatty acid and tall oil rosin. Tall oil rosin has a tendency to crystallize and usually contains 200-600ppm sulphur.Highly distilled TOR can produce esters, which are competitive with gum and wood rosin derivatives <sup>[1]</sup>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">The resin acid composition of wood rosin can vary considerably; however, the main resin acids in ester gum are abietic acids, with smaller contents of dihydroabietic and neoabietic acids; pimaric acids, including isopimaric and sandaracopimaric acids, levopimaric and palustric acid. The toxicology of glycerol esters of wood rosins harvested from the stumps of the pine tree is different from that of glycerol esters from tall-oil and gums, which are not used for the preparation of food additives.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">There are many different rosins available to the market place. The main world producer is China (approx. 90% world production; 450,000-tonnes/year gum rosin)<sup>[2]</sup>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">Rosin unlike hydrocarbon resins are not polymers. In fact they are a blend of different molecules viz. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Abietic type</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Pimaric type</b><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black"><br> </span>Rosin molecules have poor stability caused by unsaturation. Stability can be improved by various methods such as disproportionation and hydrogenation. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Glycerol</i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Glycerol is a highly hygroscopic polyalcohol (1,2,3-propanetriol) with a high viscosity and relatively high density and with several applications in the cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries (polymers, triacetin and more). However, the amount of application is relatively small. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Glycerol has three hydroxyl groups that are responsible for its solubility in water and its hygroscopic nature. The glycerol backbone is central to all lipids known as triglycerides. Glycerol is sweet-tasting and of low toxicity.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">The colour bodies in technical glycerol make a detectable contribution to the colour of the gum, so for uniformity, C.P.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>grade glycerol was used.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Production of gum rosin</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Gum rosin is obtained by extracting oleoresin gum obtained from living pine trees, followed by refining by washing, filtration and distillation to separate the rosin from other components in the oleoresin extract. After adding water to the oleoresin, the mixture is heated to 90<sup>o</sup>C to separate the unusable portion, followed by three washing and filtration steps of the remaining rosin mixture prior to direct treatment to separate the turpentine and gum rosin components. The gum rosin then undergoes countercurrent steam distillation that further separates the material into light fractions, the desired distilled gum rosin and heavy weight fractions. This final purification step distinguishes between gum and wood rosin glycerol esters intended for use in beverages, in comparison to esters used in chewing gum base, according to specifications in the Food Chemicals Codex.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Glycerol ester of wood rosin is purified by counter-current steam distillation for use in adjusting the density of citrus oils for beverages, while both glycerol esters of gum and wood rosin are purified only by steam stripping for use in chewing gum base.<sup>[4]</sup></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Manufacturing process</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Synthetic ester gum is formed<span style="mso-no-proof: yes"> </span><span style="mso-ignore:vglayout;position:absolute; z-index:251653120;margin-left:27px;margin-top:115px;width:2px;height:2px"><img src="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CKaarthik%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_image014.gif" height="2" width="2"></span>by the reaction of rosin with glycerol. As abetic acid and its anhydride are the main constituents of rosin, the reaction is essentially that of glycerol with abetic acid or its anhydride where by one molecule of water is eliminated for each molecule of the acid combined with the glycerol radical.<sup>[3]</sup></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">During the synthesis of ester gum to avid discolouration all possibility of access of air to the reactor must be eliminated. Measurable colour<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>improvement is effected by sparging the initial charge of rosin and glycerol with a slow stream of carbon dioxide or nitrogen for several hours prior to melting and cooking.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Heavy metal impurities should not be introduced, either directly from the materials of the reactor, or as impurities of the rosin or glycerol used. The presence of certain colourless additives, such as light coloured zinc or calcium rosinates, increases the danger of discolouration, but these materials could be tolerated and a gum of satisfactory colour can be produced if all precautions are taken to eliminate traces of atmospheric oxygen. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">The direct use of lime where glycerol is present always leads to the production of darker products.</p><br>The distilled gum rosin prepared in the preceding step is pumped into a batch-type reactor and esterified<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>with food grade U.S.P. glycerin under an N<sub>2</sub> atmosphere. The temperature maintained during the reaction is 270<sup>o</sup>C and is allowed to proceed until the desired product specifications are met. This ester is then purified by direct counter-current steam distillation and analyzed for acid number, softening point, and colour and is then deodorized. The production process is conducted within an inert nitrogen atmosphere using stainless steel equipment and is confined to an area exclusively for food products. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">No two lots of a natural product such as rosin are necessarily identical and variations can be expected between materials of various grades and from different sources. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">The reaction can be performed using an open kettle or a partially closed kettle, using using aluminum foil or phosphoric acid as catalyst<sup> [5]</sup>. When aluminum foil was used the temperature is maintained around 271<sup>o</sup>C and reaction mixture was held at about this temperature for 3hours. Sampling is performed every half-hour and tested for acid number. This gave a measure of the progress of the reaction.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">A product of low acid number cannot be made in an open vessel, but is produced in a covered vessel with a short chimney to act as a condenser for the glycerol vapours. It has also been found that steel has the greatest catalytic effect over all other metals. In a steel reactor product of low acid value could be secured in the shortest time; however this advantage is offset by the disadvantages that the rosin acid attack the iron or steel and yield a very dark coloured product. It is also interesting to note that after a low acid value is obtained in the presence of steel, the material starts to break down again and the acid number increases.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Aluminum has a greater catalytic action on the reaction than copper and also the advantages of yielding a much lighter coloured product.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Block Diagram of Esteification</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Critical aspect of manufacturing</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Softening Point, Acid Value and Colour</i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">Carboxylic acids can be converted to esters using various alcohols. The molecular weight of the alcohol determines the softening point of the ester. Glycerol and pentaerythritol are the most commonly used alcohols. Methanol and triethylene glycol are used to produce lower softening point esters. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">In the preparation of ester gum the first objective is usually to meet an acid number specification with a clear product, which is free of unreacted glycerol. The kind of rosin chosen determines the softening range of an ester gum, but formulation and extent of processing are also important factors. The softening range will rise slowly during cooking, if proper conditions are maintained. The use of an unusually high temperature or an unsuitable catalyst in an effort to reduce processing time can result in a darker or softer product.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Colour may not always be an important consideration, but as it reflects care in the choice of starting materials and especially of conditions of processing, it may also be taken as an indication of overall gum quality.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Esterification is affected by metallic impurities and composition of mixtures</i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Certain grades of rosin contain small and variable amounts of dissolved metallic impurities, which exert a marked catalytic effect in esterifications. The esterification rate of WG and M grade (dark rosin) wood rosin with C.P. glycerol were studied. With M grade rosin, acid numbers of 14 and 11 were attained after 4-5 hour cooks at 290<sup>o</sup>C, but with WG grade wood rosin 5-7 hours cooks were required to produce products of similar acidities. A subsequent analysis of the two rosins showed that the darker rosin (M grade) left almost twice as much residue on ignition, 56 ppm vs 32 ppm, and contained approximately twice as much iron. The activity of iron as an esterification catalyst is well known<sup>[6]</sup>. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"></span>Esterification is affected by composition of mixtures</i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">The solubility of glycerol in hot rosin increases very rapidly at temperatures above 230<sup>o</sup>C. The mixture used for ester gum preparation becomes clear at about this point. In a rapidly heating charge of rosin, the following amounts of glycerol (moles per mole of rosin) could be dissolved to form homogeneous reaction mixtures: 0.80 (245<sup>o</sup>C); 0.90 (255<sup>o</sup>C); 1.0 (260-270<sup>o</sup>C); 1.1 (275<sup>o</sup>C). As esterification progressed, the glycerol solubility diminished rapidly and a heterogeneous reaction mixture was formed.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Disappearance of glycerol in a typical cook</i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">In laboratory preparations of ester gum charges containing 1.20 equivalents of C.P.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>glycerol per equivalent of rosin (a 20% excess over theoretical requirement) were esterified to obtain products with acid number 7.0 to 11.0. At temperature above 230<sup>o</sup>C homogeneous reaction mixtures were obtained. The disappearance of glycerol during a 5.5 hour cooking schedule at 285<sup>o</sup>C was obtained.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Effect of catalyst</i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">When larger amounts of an alkaline catalyst such as lithium naphthenate were added at the start of a cook, esterification proceeded at an extremely rapid rate and molar quantities of rosin and glycerol were reacted in homogeneous system. This was not possible in the absence of the catalyst. None of the unesterified glycerol was converted to diglycerol in this case.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Zinc oxide (or resinate) is an efficient catalyst. It is approximately three times as active as calcium oxide on a weight basis. However, when more than 0.03% is used, it tends to be destructive at 290<sup>o</sup>C. Both zinc iodide and zinc chloride were very destructive and even zinc acetate yielded a soft and relatively dark product.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Calcium or lime is one of the oldest and best known catalyst. One of the objections to its use has been its darkening effect on gums when it is added directly to a cook. By using it in the form of a light coloured resinate, light gums with no reduction of catalytic activity was obtained. Calcium chloride gave a dark-coloured, soft gum. Calcium carbonate was not sufficiently soluble to be useful.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">The calcium salt of an acid petroleum sulphonate was prepared and used in a 0.1% amount in a 33% excess-glycerol formulation. The esterification rate was rapid and a gum of low acid number and high hydroxyl number was obtained. The gum obtained was softer than the regular uncatalyzed gum, but the colour of the gum was quite light. A calcium naphthenate solution (Nuodex, 6% calcium) was used in a 20% excess glycerol formulation in an amount equivalent to 0.013% calcium oxide. Some catalytic effect was observed, but a larger amount of the catalyst would appear to be much more effective. The gum obtained was darker coloured than usual. The use of calcium sulphite hexahydrate in an amount equivalent to 0.14% calcium oxide resulted in a rather dark gum. The esterification rate was very high as would be expected. A slight precipitate was present in the final product.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">For the synthesis of soft, highly hydroxylated gums lithium naphthenate was used. In a typical ester gum cook (formulated with 20% theoretical excess of glycerol) the naphthenate equivalent of 0.013% lithium hydroxide was about as active as 0.013% calcium oxide.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">With aluminum salts, at 270<sup>o</sup>C, with a 33.3% excess of glycerol, the time required to reach an acid number of 8.0 was increased by 3 hours in the presence of 0.1% basic aluminum acetate (equivalent to approximately 0.03% Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>). At 290<sup>o</sup>C with aluminum chloride hexahydrate, equivalent to approximately 0.02% Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>, a soft gum was produced.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Inorganic acids</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">The use of small amounts of sulphuric acid results in destruction of rosin and dehydration of the glycerol. When trace amounts were used (about 0.004%) these effects were not observed, but there is no significant increase in the esterification rate.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Phosphoric acid can be used in small amounts and it exhibits considerable catalytic activity. The gum obtained using phosphoric acid as catalyst have softening range of 82-97<sup>o</sup>C, very low hydroxyl value and show a very faint haziness.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Boric anhydride in amounts between 0.1 and 0.3% was not an effective catalyst, but gave a hard gum.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Petroleum sulphonates</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Several fat-splitting catalysts and sodium sulphonates were found to exhibit good catalytic activity. The gum obtained was slightly lighter than those prepared without any catalyst. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Sulphonic acids from several commercial products were prepared as follows: Neutral sulphonates were dissolved in benzene, acidified with gaseous hydrogen chloride and filtered. The solution were triturated in a mortar with barium hydroxide and filtered again. After a second treatment with hydrogen chloride and a third filtration, solvent and excess hydrogen chloride was removed in a vacuum. The acids were obtained as dark, viscous liquids (or mineral oil solutions) with acid numbers between 31 and 167. Three of these showed a good ability to increase the rate of reaction, but small reductions (1<sup>o</sup> to 3<sup>o</sup>C) in the softening points of the resultant ester gums were always evident. 2-naphthalenesulfonic acid and methyl p-toluenesulfonate, were both too destructive to be considered.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Organic acids</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Acetic acid owing to its low boiling point was not easily retained in the reaction flask and no catalytic activity was observed when it was used in amounts less than 1%. When used in approximately 4-7% , there was considerable catalytic action and clear, hard gums of low acid number and low hydroxyl number could be prepared. During the first two hour of cooking there was extremely rapid reduction of acidity. The acid value obtained at the end is 8. Most of the acetic acid used was found in the distillate. The gums were darker than those prepared without any calalyst.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Ester gums of zero hydroxyl number were prepared in an acid interchange reaction by heating mixtures of triacetin and rosin. The softening ranges of the gums were lower than those prepared in the usual way with glycerol.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Lactic acid exhibited some catalytic activity in 0.2% amount, but the esterification rate was not further increased by using five times as much.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">The activity of 0.1% maleic anhydride was comparable to that of lactic acid. Pyromellitic anhydride was very insoluble in the esterification mixture and did not show any catalytic effect.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Other organic compounds</i></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Formaldehyde, glycerol formal, triethanolamine and two nonionic detergents were also used as additives in ester gum preparations. None of them appreciably affected the course of the esterification. Formaldehyde was tried primarily to test its effect on colour of the ester gum, but no appreciable effect was noted.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">Typical characteristics of ester gum</span></i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">Acid value</span></i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">In chemistry, acid value (or "neutralization number" or "acid number" or "acidity") is the mass of potassium hydroxide (KOH) in milligrams that is required to neutralize one gram of chemical substance. The acid number is a measure of the amount of carboxylic acid groups in a chemical compound, such as a fatty acid, or in a mixture of compounds.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">The acid number of ester gums and intermediate esterification products was determined by dissolving a 1gm to 5gm sample of material in 15ml of xylene, and titrating to a phenolphthalein end-point with alcoholic 0.1N potassium hydroxide.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">Softening range</span></i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">This is the temperature range in which material without a melting point goes from a rigid to a soft condition. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">Hydroxyl Number</span></i></b><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">The hydroxyl number gives the hydroxyl content of a polyol, and is derived from a method of analysis by acetylating the hydroxyl and titrating the resultant acid against KOH. The hydroxyl number is the weight of KOH in milligrams that will neutralize the acid from 1 gram of polyol.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:167.25pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">Colour</span></i></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:167.25pt"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">Colours of ester gums and rosins were measured directly in a spectrophotometer on samples poured or melted into 19 x 150 mm test tubes, about 17mm <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>inside diameter.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b>Uses</b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal">Rosin (and most of its products) is used in the paper, coating (varnishes, wax and adhesives), polymer and food industries as well as a precursor for flux in soldering. Esterification with methanol, ethylene-glycol, glycerol and pentaerythritol yields esters for a variety of applications. These are used as tackfiers for hot melt and pressure adhesives, in solder fluxes, as crystallization promoters in the production of polypropylene, as neutralizers in paper industry, in the formulation of chewing gum and for the manufacture of polymeric coatings used in the controlled dispersion of drugs and fitosanitary products<sup>[7]</sup>.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-ansi-language:EN" lang="EN">Glycerol ester of wood rosin serves as a natural alternative to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brominated_vegetable_oil" title="Brominated vegetable oil">brominated vegetable oil</a>, particularly in citrus-flavored soft drinks. </span><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="color:windowtext"></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="color:windowtext">The glycerol ester of hydrogenated rosin can be used as tackifier for cigarette filter adhesives. </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Typical recipe of gum base for chewing gum</b></p> <table class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;border:none;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook:1184;mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid black;mso-border-insidev:.5pt solid black" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;height:32.35pt"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:32.35pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Ingredients<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-left:none;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;height:32.35pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Phr*</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-indent: .5in;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"> </p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:1"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">SBR</p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt" align="center">5-10</p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:2"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">PIB</p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt" align="center">8-10</p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:3"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Talc</p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt" align="center">6-10</p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:4"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Ester-gum<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt" align="center">25-30</p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:5"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">PVA</p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt" align="center">25-30</p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:6"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Oils & Fats</p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt" align="center">10-17</p> </td> </tr> <tr style="mso-yfti-irow:7;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes"> <td style="width:74.0pt;border:solid black 1.0pt; border-top:none;mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt; padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="99"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt">Wax</p> </td> <td style="width:85.5pt;border-top:none;border-left: none;border-bottom:solid black 1.0pt;border-right:solid black 1.0pt; mso-border-top-alt:solid black .5pt;mso-border-left-alt:solid black .5pt; mso-border-alt:solid black .5pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="114"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; text-align:center;line-height:normal;tab-stops:346.5pt" align="center">10-15</p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><span style="font-size:8.0pt">*<span class="st1"><span style="color:#222222">Parts per hundred parts of resin</span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal;tab-stops:346.5pt"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">References</b></p> <p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri"><span style="mso-list:Ignore">1.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span></b><span class="yshortcuts1"><span style="color:black">The Chemistry of Tackifying Resins - Part II , by<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>C.Donker , <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Special Chem</i> - Nov 11, 2002, </span></span>pp 149–152.</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri"><span style="mso-list:Ignore">2.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>S. Zhaobang , Production and Standards for Chemican Non-Wood Forest Products in China, CIFOR report no.6, 1995, ISSN0854-9818</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom: .0001pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri"><span style="mso-list:Ignore">3.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>Laboratory Experimental work on Ester Gum by F.M. Beegie , <i>Industrial &<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Engineering Chemistry</i>, <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight:bold">1924</span>, <i>16</i> (9), pp 953–955</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom: .0001pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri"><span style="mso-list:Ignore">4.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>Generally recognized as safe (gras)<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>notification for glycerol ester of gum rosin by <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Environ International J</i>, June24, 2002, pp 10-12</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom: .0001pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri"><span style="mso-list:Ignore">5.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>Method for making oxidation stable light coloured glycerol ester of modified rosin by Roland P.F. Scharrer <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">et al</i>. USPTO 4,447,354 , May 8, 1984</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom: .0001pt;mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; background:white"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri"><span style="mso-list:Ignore">6.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>Ester gum by esterification of rosin with glycerol by J.D. Hind, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Industrial &<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Engineering<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Chemistry</i>, Vol 46,<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>No. 3, 1954, pp 441-452</p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-add-space:auto;text-indent:-.25in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; background:white"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri"><span style="mso-list:Ignore">7.<span style="font:7.0pt "Times New Roman""> </span></span></span>Kinetic modeling of the esterification of rosin and glycerol : Application to industrial operation by Miguel <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Ladero et al., <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Chemical Engineering Journal</i>, 169, 2011, pp 319-328.</p>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-84021489212345360552012-07-04T09:28:00.000-07:002012-07-04T09:03:05.142-07:00World's leading event for process engineering industry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">ACHEMA 2012</span></b><b><span style="color: red; font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">World's leading event for process engineering industry shrugs off economic woes to post stable numbers of visitors & exhibitors</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">ACHEMA 2012 – the world's leading event for the process engineering industry – closed its doors on June 22, with numbers of exhibitors and visitors having remained stable from the last edition of the event held three years ago. According to the organisers, DECHEMA, 167,000 participants from across the world – including many from Asia – found out about the ranges of the 3,773 exhibitors, presented over an area of 136,400-m², 2% more than in the previous edition. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The scope of products and services on display was vast: from laboratory equipment to components, and plant building to packaging lines, one could see products for chemistry, process technology and biotechnology at the Frankfurt Messe, the traditional home for the event.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">More international than ever before</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">ACHEMA 2012 was also more international than ever before, with 50% of exhibitors coming from outside of Germany, from 56 countries, including China (200 exhibitors) and India (145 exhibitors). "Globalisation does not just mean Europeans and Americans going to Asia – increasingly, Asian exhibitors and visitors are coming to Europe," said Dr. Thomas Scheuring, CEO, DECHEMA Ausstellungs-GmbH, at the end of the event.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">According to Dr. Michael Thiemann, CEO of ThyssenKrupp Uhde GmbH and President of the ACHEMA Committee, the international nature of the event is a consequence of the emergence of new gravitational centres in Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The exhibitors showed they were just as satisfied with the response. "ACHEMA's influence is undiminished," said Dr. Thiemann at the interim press conference on June 20. According to the results of the visitor survey, more than 83% of the visitors, in turn, judged the quality of the ACHEMA as "good" or "very good". </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Evolutionary trends in plant engineering industry</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Speaking at the inaugural press conference on June 17, Dr. Thiemann pointed to several evolutionary trends in the plant engineering industry. "Plants are becoming both larger – the key words being 'megaplants' and 'world scale', especially for bulk chemicals production – and smaller, the key words being 'microprocess engineering' and 'single-use technologies.' Modular systems, aiming at flexible application for different purposes, and increasing automation are also gaining ground."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">In the exhibition group 'Pumps, Compressors, Valves and Fittings,' which alone accounted for more than 1,000 exhibitors, the </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">focus was clearly on 'energy intelligence' – not surprising considering these components account for 20% of global electricity consumption. In 'Laboratory and Analytical technology' the trend has long since been towards and faster and more efficient processes. "Flexibilisation, miniaturization, automation, parallelization and sequencing are key words that were once the themes of special shows at ACHEMA, but have long since become mainstream," Dr. Thiemann noted.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Bio-based world</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Another core theme at the event was under the heading 'BiobasedWorld at ACHEMA' and showcased technologies, products and services covering the whole gamut of the bio-based value chain, including biomass, bio-based chemicals and materials and bio-fuels. More than 700 exhibitors participated under this theme.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The Congress, held alongside ACHEMA 2012, with 900 talks and numerous guest and partner events gave a look at the subjects that will be occupying the industry in the short and medium term future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The front runners at this year's event included energy generation & storage, and biomass processing, although other sessions covered materials science, bionics and chemistry parks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The ACHEMA community is now looking to China, where the 9th AchemAsia will be taking place from 13- 16 May 2013 in Beijing. Then, from the 15 June 2015 it will once again be Frankfurt for a week. </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Latha;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">INDIA DAY CELEBRATIONS</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">India growth story very much intact: Indian Ambassador to Germany</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Indian visitors to ACHEMA 2012 constituted the largest non-European group, and the number of exhibitors – 145 – was a 40% increase over the number in 2009. This catapulted India to the 'top-10' amongst the 56 exhibiting countries participating at the event.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">It was therefore no surprise that India was one of the few countries to have a dedicated event – India Day –held on the third day of ACHEMA 2012, on June 19, organized by the Chemtech Foundation, in association with DECHEMA.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Speaking at the event, Mrs. Sujatha Singh, Indian Ambassador to Germany, stressed the strong economic ties that link the two countries. "Several Indian companies including Reliance and Manipal Accunova have invested in Germany, and many German companies have invested in India."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">She admitted that while growth in India may have slowed down from its high levels, the India growth story is very much intact. "The fundamentals are sound. Governance may be somewhat slow, but it is stable," she assured the audience, which included representatives from the DECHEMA and VDMA, the German manufacturers' association, besides exhibitors from India.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Opportunities in alternative energy</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Dr. Benno Lueke, Managing Director, Uhde India, also expressed confidence that the India story will be back on track, even though oil companies appear to be going slow on investments. "Investments in alternative energy such as wind, biomass and solar are expected to be significant, and the chemical industry is also investing in knowledge-based chemicals," he added.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mr. Mohan Murti, Chief Representative, Europe, Reliance Industries Ltd., highlighted the prospects for the petrochemicals business given the growth in the domestic economy and the improved purchasing power of consumers in India.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">BUSINESS OUTLOOK</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Strong growth outlook for chemical industry, despite short term glitches</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The chemical industry has enjoyed growth rates of more than 3% per year on average since the beginning of the century and well above 5% since the economic crisis in 2008-2009. This has been driven by the strongly growing economies of South America and Asia, which since 2010 have accounted for half the incremental global demand for chemicals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">At the opening press conference in Frankfurt, DECHEMA officials were optimistic that the long-term growth prospects of the industry remain solid, despite any glitches in the near term.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Prof. Dr. Rainer Diercks, Member of the Board, DECHEMA, pointed out that growth in the chemical industry has eased slightly, mainly due to China's tightened monetary policy and the debt crisis in Southern Europe. "Regardless of this, strong growth can be expected for the coming years in the chemical industry," he said.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Dr. Diercks expected emerging markets to account for 75% of the growth in the chemical industry in this decade, with China emerging as the largest single market in this decade and bigger than the combined chemical markets of all industrial countries by 2020. While the European chemical industry will be disadvantaged by high energy costs, he expected resurgence in North America, driven by low energy costs and access to cheap feedstock for petrochemicals from shale gas. "Investments to install some 11-mtpa of ethylene capacity, all based on ethane, have been announced for the coming years, as well as a considerable expansion in downstream capacity for products like polyethylene and ethylene glycol."</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">'Too early to predict market potential of chemicals from renewables'</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">While a trend to renewable feedstock for making 'green' chemicals seems obvious, Dr. Diercks cautioned that up to now only Brazil has proved to be competitive and successful in using renewable feedstocks for production of commodity chemicals. "Many of these technologies are not yet economically viable and several technological challenges limit the use of renewables in chemicals production," he added.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">"Within the coming decades we will see chemical production based on renewables increase. But it is in my view too early to comment definitely on the global market potential renewable-based chemicals will have in future."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Dr. Holger Zinke, CEO, BRAIN AG, noted that a limiting factor continues to be the lack of an innovation-oriented capital market. "The first bio-polyethylene plant has come on-stream in Brazil; European bio-refineries have been debated for years, yet no industrial operators have turned up."</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Bigger role for catalysis</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Dr. Diercks expected catalysis to play a major role in the innovation processes leading to the chemical industry of the future. "Catalysts are a means to make many chemical reactions more cost-efficient, environmentally more sustainable or even possible in the first place. Answering the main questions of the future – reducing demand for and optimal use of fossil and renewable resources, sustainable production of chemicals and energy, as well as a reduction of emissions of harmful substances to the environment – will only be possible with further improvement in catalysis."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">China to drive global markets for syngas</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Synthesis gas (or Syngas) is the name given to a gas mixture that contains varying amounts of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. It is industrially produced by steam reforming of natural gas or liquid hydrocarbons to produce hydrogen, the gasification of coal, biomass and some types of waste-to-energy gasification facilities. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">According to Mr. Sebastian Muschelknautz, Linde AG, the markets for syngas are growing with demand for ammonia for fertilizer manufacture and hydrogen for making clean fuels in refineries. "Hydrogen for mobility is still in its showcase phase and is challenging," he noted while delivering a keynote address at the Congress.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">50% growth by 2020</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">By 2020, the market for syngas is expected to increase by 50% from the current levels, representing an annual growth rate of 10%, with much of the growth slated for China, India, East Asia and the US. "Gas-to-liquid and coal-to-liquid technologies will also grow more than the average, driven mainly by China and India, but if shale gas is a success this could change," he observed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Demand for hydrogen for desulphurisation of automotive fuels propagates in waves, and the current growth is mainly in South Africa. "This will also be a growth market as countries look to cleaner fuels," Mr. Muschelknautz added.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Competitive landscape</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">While syngas plants focused on producing carbon monoxide are primarily based on partial oxidation of hydrocarbons, hydrogen plants are based on steam reforming. "Hydrogen gas production technology by steam reforming is now a commodity. Technology packages can be readily brought for a few hundred thousand dollars."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In this context he pointed to efforts made at Linde for improving the competitiveness of hydrogen manufacturing plants through standardization and local procurement, which leads to savings of up to 20% for customers. "The bad news is that the competition can also do the same."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Linde is also experimenting with modular construction of syngas plants in order to leverage lower manpower costs in some regions and shipping such plants to markets.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Coaxing CO<sub>2</sub> to chemicals & fuels: Many challenges still to be to tackled</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Europe and the US lead the way both in terms of research and investment in developing carbon capture and utilisation (CCU) technologies as a complementary approach running parallel to carbon capture and storage (CCS) options.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Industrial utilization of carbon dioxide (CO<sub>2</sub>), and in particular its chemical recycling toward materials and fuels, was the subject of a number of presentations at the Congress. Speakers viewed the emerging technologies as likely to play a significant role as a complement to reduction and prevention strategies for curbing anthropogenic CO<sub>2</sub> emissions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">But the key challenge will be to surmount a fundamental property of CO<sub>2</sub>: it is an extremely stable molecule that is thermodynamically disfavoured to readily react. An overarching theme in all efforts to coax this molecule to undergo chemical transformations and to improve economic viability is catalysis. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Well-known technologies</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Technologies for recycling of CO<sub>2</sub> are well known: urea and methanol are two large volume chemicals made at a scale of more than 146-mt and 20-mt annually; while smaller volume chemicals include salicylic acid (70-kt) and cyclic carbonates (65-kt). But given that global chemical production of 0.5-gt (gigatonnes) pales in comparison to the 40-gt of global anthropogenic CO<sub>2</sub> emissions, it is clear that chemistry alone cannot meet the challenge of tackling CO<sub>2</sub> emissions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">According to Dr. E. Quadrelli, University of Lyon, 'chemical' approaches to react CO<sub>2</sub> can be divided into two broad categories:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Carboxylations, in which the CO<sub>2</sub> moiety is intact and processes are not excessively energy intensive and yield products that are long lasting; and</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Carbonylations in which the CO<sub>2</sub> moiety is reduced by energy intensive processes to yield products that can be viewed as options for energy storage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Mineral carboxylation, for example, aims at transforming geologically stable carbonates (like magnesite or calcite) to carbonates using CO<sub>2</sub>, and is now being tried out in Oman. Carboxylation approaches to organic carbonates include attempts to use CO<sub>2</sub> instead of phosgene for making polycarbonate, as being attempted by Chimei-Asahi in Taiwan; Bayer's 'Dream Production' for production of polyether polyols for polyurethanes now under development in Germany; and Novomer's attempts to make polymers containing up to 50% of CO<sub>2</sub>. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Dream production</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The Dream Production project, to elaborate, is a collaborative effort involving academia, a power company (producing the high quality CO<sub>2</sub> required), and a chemical company (Bayer). In the broad process, CO<sub>2</sub> is separated from flue gas streams of a coal-fired power plant of RWE Power AG and is made available in sufficient purity for synthesis. A pilot plant set up by Bayer Technology Services GmbH has recently come on-stream at Chempark Leverkusen to trial the new process on a technical scale. This plant produces polyether polyols into which CO<sub>2</sub> is incorporated and which are afterwards processed into polyurethanes used in many every day items. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Dimethyl carbonate currently made in a volume of 0.5-mt, but with potential for use as a fuel additive with a market of 30-mt annually, is also seen as an interesting material that can be derived from CO<sub>2</sub>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">But the most relevant and sizeable long-term effect is to be expected to come from synthesis of "solar fuels" -- a fuel produced from sunlight through artificial photosynthesis – either through use of inorganic catalysts or by enzymes.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Possible synthetic routes using CO<sub>2</sub> as feedstock</span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Carbon absorption strategies</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Today, the principal technology used for CO<sub>2</sub> capture from hydrogen plants is based on chemical absorption, but this process requires large amounts of energy, thereby reducing its environmental benefit. And it is costly, currently in the range of €30-40/tonne of CO<sub>2</sub> captured.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Consequently, several alternate technologies have emerged that aim to address some of the shortcomings. Union Engineering, a Danish company, showcased its proprietary <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">FlashCO<sub>2</sub></i> process, that it claims significantly reduces the cost of CO<sub>2</sub> capture from fossil fuel-based hydrogen production and enables liquid CO<sub>2</sub> to be produced at a direct operating cost of around €20/ton.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> By utilising an innovative process combining conventional physical absorption by means of chilled methanol and CO<sub>2</sub> liquefaction technologies, the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">FlashCO2</i> process eliminates the requirement for steam stripping while keeping power consumption at an attractive level. The overall CO<sub>2</sub> recovery of the FlashCO<sub>2</sub> unit is 92%, 12% more than the minimum required.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Polymerizable ionic liquid monomers and their corresponding polymers (poly(ionic liquid)s) have also been found to exhibit high CO<sub>2</sub> sorption. They have enhanced and reproducible CO<sub>2</sub> sorption capacities and sorption/desorption rates relative to room-temperature ionic liquids. Furthermore, these materials exhibit selectivity relative to other gases such as nitrogen, methane and oxygen. They are useful as efficient separation agents, such sorbents and membranes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Bio-based chemicals & fuels: Next-generation technologies on verge of deployment</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Renewable resources do have a long tradition in the chemical industry but have been forced back by the development of the modern petrochemicals industry. Recently, however, fears over diminishing finite petroleum resources, and concerns over increased CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere are forcing the chemical and energy industries to develop alternative production processes that use renewable carbon sources. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Routes for biofuel production currently in commercial operation are based on feedstock that compete with the food chain (e.g. sugar cane or corn), and are not seen as scalable or sustainable. The emphasis has shifted to the processing of cellulosic material incorporated in grass or wood (lignocellulosics) – available in the quantities that are related to the tonnages of products that are to be made. More than 1.7 X10<sup>11</sup> tonnes of such biomass is produced annually, but less than 10% are used in the chemical industry today. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> A number of presentations at the Congress highlighted the technical progress being made to exploit this resource; the opportunities available; and, most importantly, the several challenges that still need to be satisfactorily resolved.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Huge potential of lignocellulose</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Lignocellulose provides a huge potential as renewable industrial feedstock to produce sugar- and phenol-based platform chemicals within a lignocellulose biorefinery. But the complex structure of this natural bio-composite material requires new process strategies. In the last few years it has become apparent that only the integration of different physical, chemical and biotechnological methods can successfully convert the lignocellulosic biomass to fuels and platform chemicals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> In the manufacture of bio-ethanol from lignocellulose, complex enzyme mixtures capable of working at relatively higher temperatures are now being developed. Enzyme costs – seen crucial to commercial viability – have come down significantly in the last three years, but continue to be an area of concern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>DSM, an enzymes producer, expects to set up the first commercial scale plant for bio-ethanol with an annual capacity of 20-mn gallons by 2013. The plant will use corn-cob residues as feedstock, and utilize proprietary enzymes developed by the company's R&D team.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Development of 'platform chemicals'</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Several studies have identified organic acid metabolites, such as lactic acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid and malic acid, as attractive targets for production through bio-based routes, but economical bulk production requires efficient and cost-competitive cultivation of microorganisms and development of robust downstream processes. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">One major challenge for the efficient fermentative production of platform biochemicals is the construction and optimization of microbial strains. High selectivities, high titers and high turnover rates on cheap substrates are needed to be economically successful.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">While these organic acids have sizeable markets of their own, it is their utility as 'platform chemicals' for making other derivatives that greatly enhances and broadens the scope of chemicals from renewables. For example, acrylic acid, an important monomer, can be produced by selective dehydration of lactic acid with acetaldehyde, with propionic acid and 2,3-pentanedione being the main side products.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Efforts to take the ideas towards the marketplace have now moved from the laboratory to at least the semi-commercial scale. Uhde, for example, has built an industrial facility in Leuna (Germany), which is capable of producing 700-1,000 tpa of organic acids.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Likewise, the biotechnological production of 3-hydroxypropionaldehyde (3-HPA) from glycerol is of great interest. 3-HPA is a platform chemical making 1,3-propanediol, which is used for the production of paints, resins, adhesives, elastomers, synthetic fibers, superabsorbent polymers and plastics. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Second-generation chemicals by metabolic engineering</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Whereas the first generation of bio-products focused on chemicals that are part of the natural metabolism of their host cells, the second generation of products deals with chemicals that their host strains have never seen before or which are even non-natural with respect to their origin. Building up efficient new metabolic pathways leading to new biochemical products is what scientists are nowadays exercising their minds on, making their effort a part of synthetic biology science.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Within metabolic pathway design for the second-generation products, enzyme engineering is seen to be the key technology. Plugging in customized enzymes with novel activities is what gives access to new production strains with designed properties.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Global Bioenergies, a French company, to cite just one example, is focused on the development of processes for the direct biological production of light olefins from renewable resources. The product secreted by the micro-organism is the olefin itself, not an alcohol such as ethanol, isobutanol or butanediol, which would then need to be dehydrated chemically and possibly undergo further chemical reaction steps (e.g. metathesis).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> The company's processes are based on the implementation into microorganisms of an artificial pathway composed of mutated enzymes optimized to catalyze reactions not observed in nature and of non-natural intermediates.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Proof of principle for this break-through innovation was obtained in 2010 through the successful bacterial production of isobutylene – a key building block for tyres, organic glass, plastics and various polymers. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Collaborative efforts</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In Germany and other European countries a collaborative approach to tackling the challenge of efficient biomass utilization is being stressed. The first German 'BioEconomy cluster' is centered on the chemical site of Leuna and covers the complete value chain from timber production in mixed forest areas, timber logistics and wood processing, to the production of basic chemicals for a sustainable chemical industry. From there it extends, via further processing steps, to the production of bio-based plastics and further to plastics products, as well as optimized energy use of residues.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Primary basic chemical products will be lignocellulose based sugars, 'green' hydrogen and aromatics. These will be further processed to secondary and tertiary bio-based products and will also be integrated into existing value chains on site.</span></div>
</div>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-12249999406632025792012-07-04T09:15:00.000-07:002012-07-04T08:45:42.431-07:00<p style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">FORECAST</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font face="Times New Roman"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">'India's bioethanol output this year likely to rise 29%'</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">The country's ethanol production from sugar molasses is likely to increase by 29% to 2,170-mn litres in 2012 on the back of higher sugar production, says a new report released by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">India is estimated to manufacture 26-mt of sugar in the 2011-12 marketing year (MY) ending September, higher than the domestic demand of 22-mt.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Total supply of bioethanol in the country is expected to be 3,006-mn litres, including import of 80-mn litres of ethanol this year, the USDA said in the report. The domestic consumption of bioethanol is estimated to rise marginally by 4.5% to 2,085-mn litres this year from 1,995-mn litres in 2011, it said.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Ethanol production in India depends largely on availability of sugar molasses, a by-product of sugar production. Out of 330 distilleries in India, the USDA noted that about 140 have the capacity to distil around 2-bn litres of conventional ethanol per year.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">"The Indian government may renew its focus and strongly implement the mandatory 5% ethanol blending in petrol, provided there is consensus among stakeholders on the purchase price of ethanol for EBP. Presently, only three-fifths of total facilities are actually supplying ethanol, severely constraining the supply of ethanol for the ethanol blending programme (EBP)," the report said.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Consequently, molasses stocks are being diverted to Europe for cattle feed. Short supplies of sugar molasses in preceding years (before MY 2010/11) had constrained ethanol production and consequent higher prices made it unviable to supply ethanol to petroleum companies at the negotiated prices, it added.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Biodiesel scenario</font></font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Commenting on the biodiesel scene in the country, the report states that slow progress in jatropha planting has resulted in lower availability of jatropha seeds to be used as feedstock for biodiesel production and hence most of the biodiesel units are not operational most of the year. "There are about 20 large-capacity biodiesel plants (10,000-tpa to 200,000-tpa) in India that produce biodiesel from alternative feedstocks such as edible oil waste (unusable oil fractions), animal fat and inedible oils," the report revealed.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Presently, commercial production and marketing of jatropha-based biodiesel in India is small, with estimates varying from 140 to 300 million litres per year. The biodiesel produced is sold to the unorganised sector (irrigation pumps, mobile towers, kilns, agricultural usage, owners of diesel generators, etc) and to experimental projects carried out by automobile manufacturers and transport companies. However, as per industry sources, there has been no commercial sale of biodiesel to state-owned transport companies except for trials, the report said.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Additionally, there has been no commercial sale of biodiesel across the biodiesel purchase centres (set up by the government) as the government biodiesel purchase price of Rs. 26.5 per litre is still below the estimated biodiesel finished production cost (Rs. 35 to Rs. 40 per litre). "Unavailability of feedstock supply (jatropha seeds), rising wage rates and inefficient marketing channels are a few of the major factors that have contributed to higher production costs,' the report said.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman"><font lang="EN-GB">WATER SHORTAGE</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font face="Times New Roman"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Grasim likely to suspend stable fibre production at Nagda plant</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Aditya Birla group firm, Grasim Industries, said it may suspend staple fibre production at its Nagda plant in Madhya Pradesh from July 3 due to water shortage. The company said "delay in onset of monsoon and consequential water shortage" had forced it to curtail production from July 1. The company's chlor-alkali plant at Nagda has also curtailed production at about 50% of its rated capacity of 2.58 lakh tonnes per annum. Last year too the company had to shut the plant down for a limited period due to water shortage.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Apart from the Nagda plant, the company has two other staple fibre facilities at Kharach in Gujarat and Harihar in Karnataka. The total production capacity of the three plants currently stands at 3.3 lakh tonnes per annum.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt" lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt" lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">CLEAN CHIT</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"><font face="Times New Roman">US court absolves Union Carbide of pollution liability in Bhopal</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">In a setback to 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy victims, a US court has held that neither Union Carbide nor its former Chairman Mr. Warren Anderson was liable for environmental remediation or pollution-related claims at the firm's former chemical plant in Bhopal.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">US District Judge, Mr. John Keena in Manhattan, dismissed a lawsuit accusing the company of causing soil and water pollution around the Bhopal plant due to the disaster, and ruled that Union Carbide Corporation (UCC) and Mr. Anderson were not liable for remediation or pollution-related claims.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">The court ruled that it was Union Carbide India Ltd., and not its parent company UCC, that was responsible for the generation and disposal of the waste that polluted drinking water, and the liability rests with the State government.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman"><font lang="EN-GB">NEW APPOINTMENT</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"><font face="Times New Roman">Mahesh Rao takes over Nalco Water India' MD</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Leading water treatment firm, Nalco Water India Ltd, has announced the appointment of Mr. Mahesh Rao as Managing Director. He took over from Mr. Alok Kumar Bhadra, who will join Ecolab's Asia Pacific marketing team as Heavy Industry Marketing lead. Ecolab Inc, the US-based maker of cleaning chemicals had acquired Nalco last year.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Mr. Rao is a chemical engineer and has been with Nalco for 26 years, working with the Sales (Australia) and Regional Marketing (located out of Singapore and China) teams. He will relocate to India to take on his new role at Nalco Water India Ltd. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Rao led marketing for Nalco's water business in India and chemical business unit for the Asia Pacific region. </font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font face="Times New Roman"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Abhijit Roy to head Berger Paints</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">The Kolkata-based Berger Paints India has elevated Mr. Abhijit Roy as its new Managing Director with effect from July 1. He is the company's Director and Chief Operating Officer. </font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Mr. Roy took over from the company's current MD, Mr. Subir Bose, who retired on June 30, 2012. Mr. Bose, who has held the position of MD since 1994, has been appointed as Additional Director of the company.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: EN-US" color="#ff0000" face=""Times New Roman", "serif"" lang="EN-GB"><br style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: always" clear="all"></font></b></p> <p style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">COLORANTS</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt" lang="EN-GB"><font face="Times New Roman">Dyes & intermediates exports show robust growth despite economic slowdown</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">India has emerged as a global supplier of dyes and dye intermediates, particularly for reactive, acid, vat, direct dyes and pigments. The country now accounts for approximately 8% of the world production, while Gujarat accounts for more than 70% of the Indian production.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">This was stated by the outgoing President of the Gujarat Dyestuff Manufacturers' Association (GDMA), Mr. Shankerbhai Patel, at the executive committee meeting of GDMA held in Ahmedabad recently.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">However, he pointed out that the industry was going through a critical phase due to adverse impact of devaluation of Rupee. Moreover the growth rate has also declined to 6%, compared to 9% earlier. "In spite of this, the export of dyes & dye intermediates for the period 2011-12 (up to January 2012) was worth Rs. 15,395-crore, compared to export value of Rs. 10,619-crore in 2010-11 (up to January 2011)," he said.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Awards presented</font></font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">The Association also gave away awards for exceptional export performance by member companies during the financial year 2010-11. Asahi Songwon Colors Ltd bagged the 'Star Exporter of the Year' award for earning of highest foreign exchange for export of dyes & dye intermediates. Other awards, trophies and certificate of merit were presented to various companies by Mr. Mahendrabhai Patel, CMD, Mamata Group of Industries.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">ASSOCIATION ACTIVITIES</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB"><font face="Times New Roman">R. S. Patel takes over as new President, GDMA</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Mr. R. S. Patel of McFills Enterprises P. Ltd. was elected as the new President of the Gujarat Dyestuff Manufacturers' Association (GDMA) for the year 2012-2013. The election took place at the executive committee meeting of GDMA held in Ahmedabad recently. Mr. Jatin Patel will be the new Honorary Secretary.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font color="#ff0000" lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">FOSTERING INNOVATION</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font face="Times New Roman"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">DRDO to bring together young minds for research</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">In a new initiative, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is bringing together 30-40 bright young scientists from its different labs to one centre to focus on developing new technologies. This group of scientists will converge at IIT Madras Research Park in Chennai. They will work closely with the academia and the industry present in the park to crystallise projects and undertake research work. The initiative is expected to take off by August 15. The core areas of research are being finalised. The objective is to leverage strengths of the academia-industry-research triad to ensure that critical technologies that cannot be imported or obtained are developed quickly.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">DRDO has nearly 50 national research laboratories distributed across the country. Its research focus covers a broad spectrum from missiles to readymade foods for soldiers in tough locales.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">The IIT Madras Research Park is modelled along the lines of successful research parks at Stanford and MIT in the US. It focuses not just on incubation efforts, but also fosters innovation in established research and development driven companies. The park is adjacent to IIT Madras and located over a 42-acre plot.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">JOINT EFFORT</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><font face="Times New Roman"><font style="LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-SIZE: 16pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt" lang="EN-GB">Australian and Indian governments to fund collaborative research projects</font></font></b></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Top scientists in India and Australia will receive funding for cutting-edge research in fields that include environment science, materials science, stem cells and vaccines as part of a joint programme. The Australian and Indian governments will support thirteen new collaborative projects and seven joint workshops through the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund. From a total Australian commitment to the fund of Aus$64-mn, the Australian government has committed Rs. 23 crores (Aus$4.37-mn) to these new projects and workshops. The Government of India will fund the Indian teams' participation.</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"> </font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">The Australian high commissioner to India, Mr. Peter Varghese, said, "This program brings together leading scientists in both countries for truly world-class research. This is Australia's largest science fund with any country and one of India's largest sources of support for international science."</font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">Participating institutions in India include, but are not limited to, Banaras Hindu University, National Chemical Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, IIT Mumbai, IIT Roorkee, Immunology Laboratory Institute of Microbial Technology Chandigarh, and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine. The partner institutions in Australia include the University of New South Wales, Melbourne University, Southern Cross University, Australian National University, Queensland University of Technology, CSIRO and Deakin University. </font></font></font></p> <p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><font lang="EN-GB"><font size="2"><font face="Times New Roman">The research to be supported includes development of new batteries for electric vehicles, developing an approach for recycling hazardous e-waste to reduce harmful emissions and coming up with a process to manage wastewater discharged from ethanol distilleries. Other projects supported by the fund are in the fields of renewable energy, marine and earth sciences, food and water security, biomedical devices and implants, and bio energy.</font></font></font></p>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6492334183069832722.post-19070123081655626482012-06-23T05:23:00.002-07:002012-06-23T05:23:12.752-07:00Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa hiked<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LhdhMj5a16U/T-W1Dgu5ufI/AAAAAAAAAuU/CAmhey49ckM/s1600/Chennai-rocks-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" rca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LhdhMj5a16U/T-W1Dgu5ufI/AAAAAAAAAuU/CAmhey49ckM/s320/Chennai-rocks-.jpg" width="320" /></a><span id="advenueINTEXT" name="advenueINTEXT"><strong><span style="color: #e69138;">CHENNAI:</span></strong> Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa on Saturday hiked daily employment wages under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme ( MGNREG) by Rs 13. The daily wages of the workers has been increased from Rs 119 to Rs 132 with immediate effect. <br /><br />With this move, more than 25 lakh labourers, who are working under central government-sponsored scheme in Tamil Nadu, will be benefited, an official release from the state government said. <br /><br />The MNREGA Act 2005 provides enhancement of livelihood security, giving at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household, whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. <br /><br />The MNREGS stipulates that works must be targeted towards a set of specific rural development activities such as water conservation and harvesting, afforestation, rural connectivity, flood control and protection such as construction and repair of river and lake embankments. <br /><br />The release added that the state government is effectively implementing the MNREGS in all the districts. </span></div>
</div>Chennai-rockshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09149140682731097811noreply@blogger.com