ExxonMobil has boosted production of specialized polypropylene (PP) used as raw materials to produce masks and protective suits for health care workers and first responders amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the company’s statement seen by SSESSMENTS.COM.
Exxon’s specialized PP capacity has reached about 1,000 tons/month which can be converted into up to 20 million medical gowns or 200 million surgical masks. Exxon’s facilities in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Baytown, Texas; and Singapore will produce the additional PP output to meet the rising demand for critical health care and hygiene items.
As SSESSMENTS.COM noted, Exxon also increases the production of isopropyl alcohol in its sites in Baton Rouge, Louisiana by 3,000 tons/month. Isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol is a key ingredient in many hand sanitizer and disinfectant products.
Exxon is also working with the Global Center for Medical Innovation to develop reusable masks and face shields for medical personnel. The new designs will incorporate high-performance polymer-based materials which can be sterilized and worn repeatedly. The new mask design featuring a replaceable cartridge system for the filtering fabric is currently awaiting approval from the US FDA.
