French chemical producer Arkema has announced plans to expand global production capacity for its specialty PA powder by more than 50% at Mont, France, up to the second half of 2019.

Arkema said the upgrade, which will cost €20 million, reflects strong worldwide demand for the powder in ultra-high performance industrial applications, in particular coatings, composite and 3D printing. The expansion will support steady growth in these industrial applications and underscore its commitment to its global customer base, the company said.

The new capacity addition for powders follows “substantial” investment in Asia for the French player’s Rilsan PA 11 and PA 12 product lines, said Erwoan Pezron, global president of Arkema’s Technical Polymers business. The specialty powders sold under the Orgasol trademark are often specified as ultra-high performing formulation additives.