Perstorp, a global leader in specialty chemicals and a subsidiary of PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad (PCG), is taking a major step into the synthetic ester market with the acquisition of an ester production facility in Amsterdam, Netherlands. This acquisition, announced in December 2024, positions Perstorp to tap into the rapidly growing specialty fluids markets, with production set to begin in early 2025.

The new plant will focus on the manufacture of synthetic esters, which are used in a range of specialty fluid applications. These fluids offer numerous advantages, including enhanced operational safety, improved cooling efficiency, and reduced maintenance requirements. With sustainability being a core priority, Perstorp plans to achieve ISCC PLUS certification for the site. This certification ensures that the facility’s production processes will contribute to reduced carbon emissions, enabling Perstorp to produce "Pro Environment" products that align with the increasing demand for environmentally responsible solutions.

Dr. Valentina Serra-Holm, Vice President of Engineered Fluids at Perstorp, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition: “This move strengthens our position not only as a producer of building blocks but also as a key supplier of synthetic esters. We can now advance our position in the value chain and serve new markets with innovative, sustainable products.” With this expansion, Perstorp plans to deepen its involvement in markets where opportunities for sustainable solutions are abundant, particularly in sectors such as cooling fluids for data centers, which is expected to see significant growth in the coming years.

Perstorp's focus on the specialty fluids market comes at a time when industries are increasingly seeking more efficient and sustainable alternatives. Specifically, dielectric fluids for data center cooling represent a key area of growth. As the demand for efficient cooling systems escalates with the rise of digital infrastructure, Perstorp sees significant opportunities to apply its innovative synthetic ester solutions. The company’s goal is to support its customers with sustainable, high-performance fluids that meet the evolving needs of these critical industries.

In addition to enhancing its product offerings, Perstorp aims to foster close collaboration with customers, end-users, and industry partners to drive the adoption of synthetic esters in new applications. The backward integration of production processes will also ensure that Perstorp maintains a reliable and consistent supply chain, which is crucial to meeting the growing demand for these specialty fluids.

Ib Jensen, CEO of Perstorp Group, highlighted the company’s broader vision: “We are committed to being a key partner in delivering sustainable solutions across various industrial sectors.” As Perstorp moves forward with this new venture, its focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer collaboration will help solidify its position as a leader in the synthetic ester market.