JyTech Polymers to install compounding line at Buckeye Polymers

JyTech Polymers Inc. (JTP), Ann Arbor, Michigan, has announced plans to install a custom compounding line for thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV) at Buckeye Polymers’  Lodi, Ohio, facility. The compounding operation, which will use Buckeye’s postconsumer polypropylene (PP), is expected to be online by early 2016, the companies say.

“The relationship with Buckeye will give JyTech Polymers a fast, solid foothold in North America,” says Shawn Jyawook, JTP chief operating officer. “We’ll be able to immediately expand relationships with our Tier 1 and Tier 2 compound customers.”

JTP currently provides custom TPV compounds to Asia-based automotive weather-seal manufacturing operations. Although recipes are customized, JyTech says its core compound has already been OEM-validated, allowing each customer to specify its own unique grades without having to repeat the OEM approval process.

“Buckeye’s postconsumer feedstock has properties and stability similar to virgin material and has already been validated by the automotive OEMs,” says Jyawook. “At the same time, JyTech will bring Buckeye increased TPV compounding capacity, advanced weather-sealing expertise and an entry into Asia if that can help them better service their core customer base. The excitement is mutual.”

Buckeye Polymers produces impact-modified and reinforced polypropylenes, soft-touch thermoplastic elastomers and thermoplastic polyolefins, manufactured of prime or recycled content.

In addition to its compounding division in Lodi, Buckeye Polymers has a recycling division in Sebring, Ohio, and other manufacturing, sales and service facilities located throughout the United States and Canada.

JyTech Polymers’ Asia plant is operated in partnership with Shanghai Jinbao Industrial Co. Ltd.