Portfolio reshape increases Solutia’s focus on core rubber chemical business

US chemicals company Solutia Inc. reports having reshaped its rubber chemicals portfolio. Although specific details about this change have not been publicised, the company says the reshaping shows a reaffirmation of its “commitment to high-value, market-leading rubber chemicals,” including its Santoflex antigradants, which are used in the production of tyres, belts, hoses, cables and other products.

“As promised, the other rubber chemicals portfolio has been reshaped and Solutia is focused on the core rubber chemical businesses of Crystex insoluble sulphur and Santoflex antidegradants,” said Greta Senn, president and general manager of Solutia’s Technical Specialties division. “Solutia continues to make investments in capital, technology and the protection of its intellectual property to remain one of the world’s largest, most cost-competitive and reliable producers of antidegradants for the rubber and tyre industry.”

The primary products in the Santoflex antidegradant portfolio are manufactured from the key intermediate 4-ADPA using Solutia’s proprietary PPD2 technology, for which Solutia holds a series of manufacturing process patents, including its Base Patents and Improvement Patent. “We developed a revolutionary manufacturing process and we stand firm in our commitment to protect our intellectual property around the world,” commented Roger Owen, global business director of Solutia’s antidegradants business, adding a caution to companies tempted to draw inspiration from Solutia’s work: “We have previously been engaged in patent litigation to protect against infringement of the Base Patents and are prepared to vigorously defend our intellectual rights under the Improvement Patent.”

The Improvement Patent is, Solutia adds, valid in key countries throughout the world until 2019 and has been repeatedly held valid despite challenges from competitors.