Arkema expands transparent polyamide capacity in Asia

Arkema has brought into full operation a new production unit for Rilsan Clear transparent polyamides at its Singapore manufacturing platform. The facility significantly expands the group’s footprint in high-performance polymers and establishes the largest transparent polyamide production capacity in Asia.

Scaling capacity for specialty materials growth
The Singapore unit represents an investment of approximately USD 20 million, announced in mid-2025, and triples Arkema’s global production capacity for Rilsan Clear transparent polyamides. The project aligns with Arkema’s long-term strategy to focus on specialty materials with higher added value, resilient supply chains, and strong regional production bases close to end markets.

By expanding capacity in Southeast Asia, Arkema strengthens supply security for customers across Asia-Pacific while also supporting global demand through diversified manufacturing.

Materials performance and application scope
Rilsan Clear transparent polyamides are engineered to combine optical clarity with mechanical and chemical performance. Key material characteristics include low density, high transparency, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals and stress cracking. These properties make the materials suitable for applications where aesthetics, durability, and design freedom are required simultaneously.

Target markets include eyewear, augmented and virtual reality devices, smart consumer electronics, industrial filtration systems, healthcare devices, and selected home appliance components. Demand in these sectors is driven by lightweight design requirements, miniaturization, and the need for durable transparent materials that can withstand repeated use and cleaning.

Sustainability and bio-based content
Arkema positions Rilsan Clear as part of its broader sustainability roadmap. The transparent polyamides are fully recyclable through the company’s Virtucycle program, which supports mechanical recycling pathways for high-performance polymers.

In addition, Arkema offers bio-based grades under the Rilsan Clear Rnew range. The G850 and G820 grades contain approximately 45% and 62% bio-based carbon content respectively, derived from renewable feedstocks. These materials enable customers to reduce the fossil carbon footprint of finished products without changing processing conditions or compromising performance.

Strategic role of the Singapore platform
The new unit was designed for high operational reliability and efficiency, supporting stable output for demanding specialty markets. Its location on Arkema’s Singapore platform provides access to established logistics, utilities, and skilled technical resources, while placing production close to fast-growing Asian markets.

With this expansion, Arkema reinforces its position in transparent polyamides and underlines its strategy of combining advanced material performance with recyclability and bio-based content to meet evolving regulatory, environmental, and customer requirements.