Wacker Chemie will discontinue production of its Pioloform polymer binders effective Sept. 30, 2008. The Munich-based chemical group recently announced this decision citing limited expectations for polyvinyl butyral growth in industrial applications such as coatings, paint and printing ink and increased raw material and energy costs.
To allocate supplies of Pioloform in the coming months, the company is working with clients to coordinate delivery schedules and define terms. These negotiations include prince increases. Wacker Polymers will raise prices for Pioloform by up to 15% in Europe and up to 25% overseas, as well as for shipments invoiced in U.S. dollars. Approximately 10 people are employed in this sector. They will be offered jobs in other parts of the company.