Under a new exclusive agreement Perstorp (Perstorp / Sweden; www.perstorp.com) will handle European distribution for the high heat-resistant co-polyesters produced in Japan by Mitsubishi Gas Chemical (MGC, Tokyo; www.mgc.co.jp) as well as key raw materials. The Swedish company will market the product under its own brand name, “Akestra”. The companies said the joint aim is to develop the European market for the new durable co-polyester, thereby “addressing the demand for safer and superior thermoplastics.”

The Mitsubishi polymer’s unique properties make it attractive for new applications as well as substituting glass and other polymers with improved performance, durability, lighter weight, and low energy consumption for processing, said Perstorp market development manager David James. “There is strong need in substituting other thermoplastics like polycarbonate due to safety and environmental concerns,” he added, apparently alluding to worldwide plans to replace bisphenol A in food applications.

Access to Perstorp’s marketing network and technical support “will accelerate the growth of our new co-polyester business development,” said Takashi Nakase, new business development manager at MGC.