HOUSTON (AP) - ExxonMobil Chemical Co. on Tuesday said it will construct a plant to make a new specialty compound that improves tire durability.
The elastomer compound is a dynamically vulcanized alloy of proprietary Exxpro specialty elastomers and nylon.
The compound makes tires lighter by using less raw material and will significantly reduce fuel consumption, according to the company.
The plant is expected to start up in early 2008. ExxonMobil Chemical expects to commercialize the technology later this year.
The initial plant will be in Pensacola, Fla., and supply customers globally.
