Ashland Expands U.S. Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) Capacity

Ashland announced that it plans to increase the production capacity of Natrosol hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) at its Hopewell, Virginia, USA production plant. The specific capacity increase was not announced.

Ashland said Natrosol HEC is a natural product and an excellent thickener. It is used as a nonionic rheology modifier, which has been the main cellulosic thickener for waterborne architectural coatings. Ashland is a leading global producer of HEC, providing essential additives and specialty ingredients to a wide range of industries including paints and coatings, construction, oil and gas, personal care and pharmaceuticals.

Ashland is changing the sequence and timing of Natrosol HEC investments based on customer and industry needs and current market trends," said Min Chong, Ashland Senior Vice President and General Manager of Specialty Additives. quickly meet market demand, while ensuring that customers' growing demand is met and providing additional security of supply globally."