TPC Group Provides Updates on Polyisobutylene Capacity Expansion

HOUSTON -- TPC Group, a leading provider of C4 based products and services, announced the progress of its comprehensive expansion program to increase polyisobutylene capacity. In early 2013 TPC embarked on an expansion effort to both debottleneck existing capacity and build additional capacity to meet the current and future needs of our customers. Since commencing engineering work, TPC has increased polyisobutylene capacity by more than 10 percent versus 2012, and expects to add capacity in 2014 as further improvements are made. This debottlenecking effort is targeted to supply the current and near term needs of our customers in the lubricant additives, sealants, adhesives and industrial lubricants markets.

"The progress we continue to make on an expansion, combined with our investment in supply chain and logistics infrastructure, add to the strength of TPCs capabilities and its commitment to remain the leading polyisobutylene supplier in North America," said Charlie Graham, Senior Vice President of Commercial for TPC Group.

In parallel with expanding current capacity, a project to install a third production unit has progressed in its design. This project is targeted to satisfy expected future market growth, including that resulting from anticipated changes in lubricating oil standards, which will phase in during the next three years. These higher standards are driving increased use of highly reactive polyisobutylene, which TPC Group manufactures using a proprietary process.

TPC Group first entered the polyisobutylene market in May 2000 with the startup of its patented process to produce a wide range of polyisobutylene products. Since that time, the business has grown significantly through multiple expansions to become the largest producer in North America. TPC supplies the market from its Houston production facility as well as product terminals in Houston and near Chicago, Illinois.

About TPC Group

TPC Group Inc. is a leading producer of value-added products derived from niche petrochemical raw materials such as C4 hydrocarbons. The Company sells its products into a wide range of performance, specialty and intermediate markets, including synthetic rubber, fuels, lubricant additives, plastics and surfactants. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, and with an operating history of more than 70 years, the Company has manufacturing facilities in the industrial corridor adjacent to the Houston Ship Channel, Port Neches and Baytown, Texas and operates a butadiene product terminal in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Source: TPC Group