A new thermoplastic polyester plant has started operating in Montreal.
PTT Poly Canada said June 21 that commercial production of polytrimethylene terephthalate is to begin in the fourth quarter.
The joint venture estimates production capacity will be about 210 million pounds per year.
The venture is equally owned by Quebec government industrial holding company Societe Generale de Financement du Quebec of Montreal and Shell Chemicals Canada of Calgary, Alberta.
PTT resin is used to make fibers, plastic film and other products.
Shell companies around the world market the polymer under the Corterra trade name. Shell claims the resin combines the properties of nylon and conventional thermoplastic polyesters. It is made by polymerizing 1,3-propanediol and terephthalic acid.
SGF invested about C$100 million (US$75 million) in the facility. Government agency Investissement Quebec contributed C$15 million (US$11.3 million), including a C$5 million (US$3.8 million) loan for construction.
