The new state-of-the-art plant will manufacture Low Melting Fibre (LMF), with an annual capacity of 60,000 tonnes. LMF is commonly used as a binder fibre in core-sheath constructions to produce HVA applications for automotive and industrial composites, such as wadding, insulation, filtration, automotive acoustic insulation material and other products where heat is used to bond the fibres.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to partner with Huvis, and looking forward to further develop a strong relationship. Our partnership will be a strategic step for both Indorama Ventures and Huvis to emerge as a regional leader and position us well to take advantage of the robust growth potential in the region. This is an exceptional opportunity for both companies to provide unique value for customers, and bring new exciting fibres and composites solutions to market,” said Aloke Lohia, Group CEO of Indorama Ventures.

The initial volumes of LMF will be sold in the US, with its new low tax environment and the potential to significantly expand its scope into neighbouring regions over time. LMF sales are expanding at a rate of 8% a year, as manufacturers have been converting from conventional chemical adhesives to a thermo-bonding method.

The decision to form a joint venture builds upon Indorama Ventures’ successful feedstock integration strategy and a continued focus on expanding High Value-added (HVA) portfolio. The JV will leverage Huvis’s best-of-breed technology and its strong customer base in the region, as well as Indorama Ventures’ global management capabilities and its manufacturing and cost position.

“We are so pleased to work with Indorama Ventures to build stronger market presence in North America, one of our core markets for LMF business. As one of leaders in LMF, we are pursuing glocalisation strategy to better serve our key customers’ needs based on more efficient and cost-competitive platform. We will continue to collaborate and extend our relationship with Indorama Ventures to seek more synergies in other interesting polyester fibre markets with strong growth potential,” said Mr Shin, You Dong, CEO of Huvis.

www.indoramaventures.com