US-based Eastman Chemical will increase Tritan capacity at its Kingsport facility. from 60,000 tonnes to 76,000 tonnes to meet increasing demand for the material. The projects are expected to be completed by mid-2014.

“Eastman continues to experience strong global demand for Tritan,” said Lucian Boldea, Vice-President and General Manager of Advanced Materials-Specialty Plastics at Eastman. “We are gaining traction in markets such as medical, durable goods and infant care. This investment in Tritan will allow us to maintain our position as the global market leader in copolyesters, and we will continue to evaluate options for more significant expansions in the future. ”

Eastman Tritan is a new-generation copolyester that provides a balance of properties, including toughness, dishwasher durability and superior clarity. Since its launch in 2007, Tritan has been used for more than 600 food contact products ranging from serving and storing items to reusable sports bottles, infant care products and small appliances.