Eastman Chemical on Thursday announced plans to again expand 2-EH capacity at its plant in Longview, Texas.

The expansion will increase capacity by approximately 20,000 metric tpy, according to the company, who expects to complete the expansion in the fourth quarter of this year.  

In support of the 2-EH expansion, a 25,000 metric ton expansion of butyraldehyde will also occur at the site.  

Eastman previously completed a 32,000 metric ton expansion of 2-EH at the site in April of 2012. 

“In the short time since our last 2-EH capacity increase, we have seen strong demand growth for this product,” said Juan Moncada, business unit director of Eastman’s oxo-chemicals business. “We are committed to reliable supply for our 2-EH customers, while also supporting internal growth for products like our Eastman 168 non-phthalate plasticizers.”

An oxo derivative, 2-EH is used in end products such as plasticizers, like non-phthalate plasticizer, 2 ethylhexyl acrylate, and additives for fuels and lube oils. 

End markets for 2-EH include building and construction, transportation, medical, consumables, and durable goods manufacture.