Huntsman Corp. (The Woodlands, Tex.) officially opened a new innovation center in Tienen, Belgium on June 13, 2024, strengthening its research and development (R&D) capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to its customers in the region.
The new 11,000-square-meter facility comprises a world-scale analytical laboratory; two machine halls; and fully equipped and automated product testing facilities. Together, these assets boost Huntsman’s ability to perform the entire product innovation journey from the formulation of initial ideas at lab scale through to the manufacture of novel systems and samples ready for customers to trial.
The innovation center is home to more than 100 scientists from the company’s Polyurethanes and Performance Products businesses and will support the application of Huntsman technologies in key markets, including adhesives, coatings and sealants; automotive; elastomers; energy; furniture and bedding, and insulation.
The inauguration event, which was attended by more than 100 customers, suppliers, the mayor of Tienen and business partners, included presentations from Huntsman’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Peter Huntsman, and Tony Hankins, President of Huntsman’s Polyurethanes business. It also included a tour of the facility and live R&D demonstrations, and a formal ribbon cutting ceremony.
“Today marks a significant milestone as we officially open the doors to our new European innovation center, a facility dedicated to creativity, collaboration and progress,” Huntsman said. “We already have a rich legacy of innovation in Belgium. This center reflects our continuing commitment to exploring new ideas and turning imaginative concepts into practical solutions that can make a positive impact in the world.”
Hankins further commented, “Fitted with the very latest equipment and staffed by some of the best scientists in the world, our Tienen site is a place where innovation can thrive, and where we can find new meaningful ways for our chemistries to address the sustainability challenges of tomorrow.”
Huntsman is a leading global provider of innovative chemistries that are critical to addressing some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges. The Polyurethanes division of Huntsman is a global leader in MDI-based polyurethanes, serving more than 3000 customers in more than 90 countries worldwide. Huntsman Performance Products manufactures amines, maleic anhydride and carbonates for a wide range of consumer and industrial end markets and sells over 800 products to more than 1000 customers globally.