Brazil's IPQ Has New Resin

Brazilian petrochemicals producer Ipiranga Petroquimica (IPQ) has begun production of a new grade of pressure-resistant high-density polyethylene called PE-100 for use in the construction of natural gas pipelines and sewage systems as well as for underwater applications. The company has invested $7.5 million to develop the new resin, which will be a substitute for imported high-density polyethylene. Demand for pressure-resistant polyethylene is on the rise, given increased investments in basic sanitation and natural gas distribution infrastructure.