Saudi-based Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic) launched a breakthrough polypropylene product, Sabic PP FPC55, at the recently concluded ‘AMI Thin Wall Packaging 2008’ event in Cologne to tap into the lucrative European packaging market.

The product was specially developed in response to the specific needs of today’s injection moulding market, requiring improved conversion efficiency and value for money, said a company official.
“Sabic PP FPC55 is an innovative product that offers a unique combination of faster moulding cycles with excellent flow behaviour and an exceptional balance of impact and stiffness, permiting thinner wall options,” said Diederik Goyvaerts, PP technical marketing engineer for packaging.
“It increases the moulding cycles up to 15 per cent, a percentage that will have a significant impact on the manufacturing costs. Due to the unique rheology, Sabic PP FPC55 offers additionally the superior flow behaviour similar to 70MFI.”
According to Goyvaerts, Sabic PP FPC55 has been designed to bring maximum value on high-speed equipment.
“This new grade shows exceptional flow and Sabic incorporates a state-of-the-art additive package that enhances the performance significantly,” he added.
This new grade is of special interest to the thin wall packaging, pails and containers, caps and closures markets, where excellent flow and reduced cycle time are essential.
Meanwhile, Sabic announced the establishment of a new wholly-owned company with a paid up capital of 18,000 euros.  The company, Sabic Capital Ltd., is based in the Netherlands.
Mohamed Al-Mady, Sabic vice chairman and CEO, said the new company would be primarily responsible for the financing and tax operations of Sabic’s investments in Europe and the US following the acquisition of DSM Petrochemicals, GE Plastics, and other companies.