Perstorp expands oxo alcohols portfolio in Asia with PETRONAS

Perstorp, a global specialty chemicals leader based in headquartered in Perstorp, Sweden, has expanded its product portfolio of C8-C10 oxo alcohols, including isononanol (INA), iso-dodecene, and oxo oil, by leveraging its strategic partnership with PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad (PCG). This development strengthens Perstorp’s position in the Asia-Pacific region, where PCG’s subsidiary, Isoonanol Sdn Bhd (PC INA), will manufacture the new products at the Pengerang Integrated Complex in Malaysia.

C8-C10 oxo alcohols are typically used in a variety of industrial applications, particularly in the production of:

1. Plasticisers: These alcohols are key ingredients in making flexible plastics like PVC, where they are used to produce esters (plasticising agents) that improve the flexibility and durability of the material.

2. Surfactants: Used in detergents and cleaning agents, as they help reduce the surface tension between different substances, allowing them to mix more easily.

3. Lubricants: These alcohols are also used in the formulation of synthetic lubricants, which require specific properties for industrial machinery and automotive applications.

4. Solvents: C8-C10 oxo alcohols are used in paints, coatings, and adhesives due to their ability to dissolve other substances.

This expansion targets the plasticiser industry, offering more tailored and sustainable solutions for various applications. PETRONAS will handle distribution in Malaysia, further cementing the partnership between both companies. The addition of these chemicals also supports Perstorp’s long-term commitment to the Asian market, following its investment in India with the opening of a Penta plant.

PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad signed a Securities Purchase Agreement in May 2022 to acquire the entire equity interest in Perstorp Holding AB. The acquisition was completed in October 2022, making Perstorp a wholly-owned subsidiary of PCG.