Volume 9 Issue 40

BASF, Hannong Plan Surfactants JV

BASF and Hannong Chemicals have tentatively agreed to form a joint venture that would manufacture non-ionic surfactants in South Korea for metalworking fluids and other applications, the companies announced Thursday. The partnership requires approvals of multiple authorities, and the companies said they are working to obtain those and to form the joint venture early next year.

Japan Demand Rebounded in August

Japan’s finished lubricants consumption surged up by 79%, and production was up 31% in August, compared to the same month last year, according to data released Sept. 30 by the Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Consumption in August 2021 was historically low.

Lubes’n’Greases October Issue Available

The October issue features a special report on additives. Discover how new policy in Europe may contribute to major disruptions for chemical manufacturers as well as how a new antioxidant may be able to boost lubricant performance. Plus, learn about how new developments in EV charging may speed up charging times, the benefits of double separation technology and more.

Hi-Tech Profits Rose Last Year

Pakistan-based blender Hi-Tech Lubricants Ltd.’s consolidated net profit for the quarter ended June 30 was down by more than 900%, while sales were up more than 100%. For its fiscal year, the company reported 10% higher profit, while sales climbed almost 70%. The company said sales were still hurt by economic turmoil and that the outlook in Pakistan appears challenging.

From Other Editions of Lube Report

Kline: Latin America Demand on Upswing

Kirei Vows to Make Additives for Russia

Developing Ultrafast Battery Charging

Briefly Noted

In September, Japan’s sales of new automobiles increased 24% to 395,163, compared to 318,371 in the same month last year, according to data released by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.