Rayonier Proceeding with Final Analysis for Cellulose Specialties Expansion
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Rayonier, Jacksonville, Fla., USA, this past week announced that it will proceed with the final analysis for converting the company's fluff pulp fiber line at Jesup, Ga., to high purity cellulose specialties pulps. The analysis will include market assessment, detailed design and engineering, and cost estimates.
The company expects the analysis to be completed by mid-year 2011, when the board is expected to make a final decision on the project. If approved, the converted line would be scheduled to begin production in 2013.
Rayonier anticipates that cellulose specialties fibers markets will continue to grow, resulting in ongoing strong, world-wide demand. The company's current cellulose specialties capacity of 485,000 metric tpy is sold out and the addition of the new line would raise the total cellulose specialties capacity to 675,000 metric tpy.
"We are meeting with our current and potential customers, and expect to receive commitments for most of this additional volume," said Lee Thomas, chairman and CEO. "The board's action speaks to our continued commitment to the Performance Fibers business. The business is a vital contributor to our balanced business mix and is expected to continue to play a crucial role in our financial performance."
Rayonier's cellulose specialties fibers, which include acetates, ethers, and high-strength viscose, are used in the manufacturing of products such as filters, LCD screens, pharmaceuticals, food additives, paints, tire cords, and sausage casings.
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