Interview: “South Korea is one of the key growth markets“

Wacker is expanding its existing production plants for dispersions and dispersible polymer powders in South Korea. Why?

Peter Summo: We have been producing VAE dispersions at our Ulsan site for years and we have a great working relationship with our neighbours and the authorities there. Utilizing the site’s existing infrastructure will produce several synergies. We manufacture dispersions as well as powders and operate technical centers in all growth regions including South Korea. Our portfolio addresses a multitude of applications. South Korea is one of the key growth markets. Our investment in Ulsan is an important step to meet the growing demand for high performance polymer binders and to increase our market position in the region.

How do you rate the market for dispersions in the region?

Summo: It is clear that Asia will continue to be a major force in the world economy over the coming years, with growth rates higher than in any other region of the world. Increasing prosperity in these countries will support a rapid transformation towards higher building and living standards. This stimulates the demand for environmentally compatible products based on our VAE technologies.

Peter Summo

President Wacker Polymers,  Wacker Group

What are specific requirements in the region?

Summo: Megatrends such as urbanization, rising health awareness and resource efficiency strongly promote the development of high quality products for housing applications. Just an example: tile adhesives containing polymer binders are state of the art in almost all industrialized countries. They are economical, easy to handle and provide excellent adhesion. In Asia, unmodified mortars are still common, but this is changing rapidly as building standards improve. That is why dry mix mortars based on dispersible polymer powders are gaining momentum. Polymer binders also improve the durability and environmental footprint of adhesives, paints and carpets. Wall paints containing VAE dispersions are plasticizer-free and almost odorless, a benefit which is increasingly valued by manufacturers and user