LyondellBasell has included KARO 5.0 laboratory stretching machine from Brückner Maschinenbau into its portfolio. This latest addition to the research and development capabilities offered at the LyondellBasell (LYB) Technical Center in Akron, Ohio will greatly enhance the company's ability to develop and test masterbatch solutions for various oriented film applications.

“The KARO 5.0 represents a significant investment in our research and development capabilities," said Tiago Piccoli, LYB director of APS PAD for Consumer & Industrial Markets in the Americas. "This advanced technology will allow us to accelerate the development of new and improved masterbatch solutions, ultimately helping our customers bring their products to market faster and with greater confidence."

“The addition of the KARO 5.0 reinforces our technical leadership and commitment to innovation in the masterbatch industry,” said Chuck Hampton, LYB director of Masterbatch and Colors U.S. & Canada. “Complementing our testing assets in Europe, bringing this advanced technology to the Americas can offer our global customers access to the latest and most innovative masterbatch solutions.”

The new equipment supports the company’s Advanced Polymer Solutions (APS) and Olefins and Polyolefins (O&P) business segments in the Americas. Testing is already underway for a variety of applications including protective films, food packaging and more. With this new capability, LYB is creating solutions for a better tomorrow.