Surface Specialties UCB is to begin production of acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA) in Thailand as part of its ongoing growth strategy in Asia. The Brussels-based business has acquired the Rayong Emulsion plant previously operated by Clariant Chemicals (Thailand) Ltd. Surface Specialties UCB already operates a resins plant on the 150,00o sq. m site, where it produces powder and acrylic resins for coatings and unsaturated polyester resins for a variety of uses. It is anticipated that the Thailand investment will spearhead further expansion of PSA activity in the region, including capital investment in China. Production at Rayong will focus on both waterborne and solventborne Gelva, Solcuryl and Ucecryl adhesives, and is expected to be fully converted by the end of 2004. These high-performance PSAs are used in a range of applications in the graphics, labels, medical, automotive and tape markets.

For more information, visit http://www.surfacespecialties.com or call (770) 970-8302.