Oxo chemicals firm OQ Chemicals has announced a two-year cost-saving programme that includes realignment and workforce reductions in Germany. This was attributed to high raw material and energy prices, plus inflation rates, particularly in Europe. Last year alone, rising energy costs amounted to “a high three-digit million Euro figure”.

US speciality and custom chemical manufacturer has completed an upgrade of its pilot plant in Dalton, Georgia. In particular, the company has upgraded a 0.38 m3 stainless steel reactor, which produces hot oil and steam reactions up to 288ºC, placing it on a mezzanine off the floor and giving it new insulation. The entire plant has also had a pressure cleaning and general upgrading. Another reactor of the same size will be added as demand grows, according to CEO Keith Arnold.