Growing demand
One of the most recent and exciting announcements is the new production line in support of SoarnoL , Mitsubishi Chemical ’ s gas barrier , which is used in high performance packaging . “ Our SoarnoL division produces ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer ( EVOH ) under the brand name SoarnoL ,” begins Peter . “ EVOH has a high gas barrier property for oxygen , carbon dioxide and nitrogen , which makes it suitable to extend the shelf life of food through multi-layered food packaging that utilizes one layer of EVOH .
“ Other applications for the product can be seen in bottles , pipes and plastic fuel tanks , and , subsequently , we have pushed the company to specialize in high quality , high performance EVOH that matches customer requirements ,” he shares . From Peter ’ s observations , global demand for EVOH resin has been expanding . This has been as a result of growth in emerging markets , as well as an increasing use of individual packaging , owing to lifestyle changes in recent years and the rising calls to limit the use of preservatives and food additives . Due to these factors , Mitsubishi Chemical anticipates solid growth in demand for
“
EVOH resin in the coming years .
Although the three SoarnoL EVOH resin production sites in Japan , Texas , and the UK are thriving , the British-based facility is set to undergo some impressive expansions .
This has led
“ to the impressive expansion plans in Hull
RAS Ltd RAS Ltd has worked with Mitsubishi Chemical UK Ltd SoarnoL Division consistently over the past decade , during which time a strong professional relationship was formed . We have supported the existing site , and the PUMA project team on a wide range of projects , providing expertise and support on all aspects of process safety and risk assessment , including COMAH report preparation , hazard study facilitation , layer of protection analysis , demonstration of ALARP , basis of safety development , permit applications and best available technique studies . Due to the long-term and consistent support provided , there is an ease and efficiency with which work is carried out , and we are confident that our relationship in the process safety space will continue to be a healthy one for many years to come . We look forward to supporting Mitsubishi Chemical UK Ltd through the PUMA project , delivering line two at the Hull site .
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