Introduction

Velsicol Eesti AS is a world class European manufacturing facility for Velsicol Chemical Corporation. It has become the focal point for Velsicol’s European growth and expansion program.

Velsicol Eesti produces four critical products inlcuding benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, potassium benzoate and Velsicol's proprietary Benzoflex® plasticizers.

Benzoic acid is a building block in the synthesis of alkyd resins, and it improves the gloss, hardness and chemical resistance of certain resins. In a number of industrial applications, benzoic acid is also used as a preservative to increase storage stability and reduce corrosion of polishes, waxes, paints, liquid detergents and emulsions.

Sodium and potassium benzoate are widely used as preservatives in the food and beverage industry. Velsicol Eesti supplies some of the world’s largest food and beverage manufacturers. Sodium benzoate is also used as a preservative in cosmetic products, and as a corrosion inhibitor in automotive and other antifreeze products.

The plant also began producing Velsicol's proprietary line of Benzoflex plasticizers, used for pvc, adhesives and coatings, with a new state-of-the-art facility in late 2002. Benzoflex® plasticizers have become the chemistry of choice in Europe because of their excellent environmental health and safety profile and high performance characteristics.