Kemira will implement a price increase of 10-20% for all AKD (alkyl ketene dimer) wax products, effective immediately or as contracts permit. The adjustment is driven by significantly higher costs across the AKD wax value chain.
“We remain a committed partner to our customers, ensuring security of supply while keeping our cost of production highly competitive and maintaining our high-quality service level”, Kemira states in a press release.
Alkyl ketene dimers (AKDs) are a family of organic compounds based on the 4-membered ring system of oxetan-2-one, which is also the central structural element of propiolactone and diketene.
The main application of alkylated ketene dimers is in the sizing of paper and cardboard, as well as in the hydrophobation of cellulose fibers. The products thus modified are distinguished by higher mechanical strengths and less penetration of water, inks or printing inks.
